smells fishy to me. I guide myself occasionally (flyfishing) and can tell you that there are a lot of outfitters out there who are very reputable and there are a lot who are not. some are flying by the seat of their pants on a prayer of half truths to outright lies.
Honest communication and expectations have to be foremost in an outfitter/client relationship and it sound like this guy is jerking you around. especially since it seems YOU are willing to go the extra mile but he is not.
I would not go any further w/this guy and since it is he who is cancelling I would demand whatever deposits you have down. It seems to me that just re-booking with this guy for next year might be delaying the inevitable. If he is uncooperative there should by some governing body that he has to answer to (ex. here in Montana, outfitters have to answer to the Montana board of outfitters for any professional misconduct) which may aid in a remedy. I would not just walk away w/o rightful action b/c that is how this same thing may happen to someone else.
Meanwhile, perhaps it is not too late (i don't know anything about caribou seasons) to book a hunt w/another--sometimes you can find a deal from a reputable outfitter whose clients had to cancel or just happens to have a few days of slow business (if not, save your money until next year) but no matter what, make sure that you get lots of references. Any reputable outfitter who has been in business any length of time should be able to provide a long list of satisfied customers (if not--something is wrong).
I suggest that this forum may also provide rock solid references.
good luck
HB