D.N.A: Be active. The most telling question we ask is if the hunter can walk a mile over varied terrain with moderate breaks. In our pre-hunt questionnaire, hunters should always answer questions like this honestly. Hunters should be walking several times a week. We recommend a walk in the woods with the type of gear they will be wearing at least four weeks prior to their hunt.

D.N.A: Any good guide or outfitter will provide clients with a recommended list of equipment they should bring with them on their hunt. We often warn hunting clients to allow for a “break-in” period for their gear. A good day of hunting can quickly be ruined by painful blisters, ill-fitting clothing, and new and unfamiliar gear.

D.N.A: Being successful on the first day of your hunt means that your guide has done the homework, and everything has gone right. Many guided hunters often feel a little remorse for taking a harvest so soon in their hunt. From our perspective, we measure our success on whether you take a successful harvest. We offer other opportunities for clients to take advantage of for the other days following a successful hunt, such as ATV riding, bird or coyote hunting and sightseeing.

DNA: An average day of hunting typically starts the night before. Getting to know your guide and allowing your guide to get to know you is one of the most important aspects of your hunt. This builds trust and confidence. After all the license, permits and equipment checks are complete, it always starts with an early morning. A good breakfast is key, and a pre-departure from camp check is always a must. Your guide will be taking you to the best place for opportunity. Being flexible as a guide and client is key.

DNA: Obviously, a guide or outfitter never wants to see that happen and neither does a paying client. The conversation needs to take place before the hunt as to what to expect from their hunt and what the clients’ expectations are. We often explain that we are all fair-chase hunting in MAINE, which means the hunter has no advantage over the free-range wild game they are pursuing. There are no guarantees when you are hunting.