Unfortunately not all of them are honest or able to provide a quality experience. Bad experiences are guaranteed from actual crooks and cheats. However, sometimes an individual who provided good service in the past falls on hard times and lets things slide.

Your best protection is in client references. Beware any operator — drop-camp, outfitter or guide — who will not provide you with a list of recently satisfied and widespread clients. "Recently" speaks for itself, but why widespread? Some shady operators create a great but bogus reference list. The best reference possible is someone you know who has hunted with a specific outfit.

As for ranches, contact local game wardens, Forest Service employees or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) agents to get a true feel for the quality of that piece of private land.