This really stinks, had a hunt booked for bou in Labrador. The outfitter cancled on us the last minute 11/15-17 due to lack of animals (nice of them I thought) rebooked for two weeks later 11/29-dec.1 and the reports say the bou are all over the place and they say its a hard hunt from the road and want us to cancel. I told them we were willing to walk to the herds which they say they can seen but out of range from the road. They also say there is not enough snow to use snowmobiles. I have heard stories of the caribou not being there one day and the next they are so I offered to stay extra days at our expense and they said they can't because they have more hunters later in the week. Why are the still taking people a day after our hunt is canceled? When I said we would take the chance and tough it out and let destiny take its course the outfitter now said guides vehicles were being damaged and its to rough! But when I booked 6 monthes ago they stated guides don't use there vehicles, the hunters do? What the *&%$ gives here? Please anybody with a explanation please respond to this string. If anybody at all knows of another outfitter in either Quebec or Labrador due to canclations or of guys tagging out and leaving early please let me know.

Thanks.

That is a low blow. I have not hunted there for 30 years. At that time I had a cousin in the hunting business. I don't know of any outfitters there anymore but there should be some good ones. Good Luck and I hope things work out for you. It tough to plan a trip and do your part then have it fall through.

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