I have hunted public land with some success and alot of frustration. The frustration comes from the simple fact that "anybody" can ruin your hunt at anytime. I have had public land hunts ruined intentionally and unintentionally by other hunters. Most hunters are well mannered and others are not. If you can afford the $225 and not shorthand your family and the time off then i would do it in a heartbeat. Just my .02 cents.