Outfitter Recomendation for green hunters

[vincewarde]

My wife and I are long time shooters, but we have never hunted. The wife and I would like to start hunting. (Boy am I blessed to have her, how many women are happy to get a .270 for Christmas?) We plan on going after Tree Squirrels locally (El Dorado County) as well as Turkeys (all over the place here) - but our real desire is to learn to big game hunt.

Without getting into all the details, I have struggled for the last 25 year with back problems and have had 3 surgeries in the last 3 years. I'm currently fighting my way back from the last one. I have just one more hurdle, the implantation of an anti-pain device. Assuming this helps me fight my way back to a something resembling normal, we have decided to reward ourselves with one paid pig hunt. We don't care about trophy boars - we just want to bag some meat and learn as much as we can.

Recognizing that guiding an experienced hunter is one thing and teaching a beginner is another, does anyone have a recommendation for a good guide?

Thanks!

 

[Speckmisser]

Welcome aboard, Vince!

First thing, I'm gonna let some of the other guys post up their recommendations first. I know a bunch of good guides in the state, but honestly, I've never hunted with most of them. I still wouldn't hesitate to recommend any of them to an experienced hunter, but the kind of info you need really has to come from someone who has first-hand experiences with the guide.

It sounds like you're interested in rifle hunting, which is a good way to start. Are you interested in hunting over dogs, or would you prefer spot and stalk? How much are you expecting to pay for this hunt? How far around the state are you interested in travelling?

When you do find a guide to talk to, spend the time to talk to him or her and let them know exactly what kind of experience you're after. Then, while you're on the hunt, ask questions. If you've prepared the guide beforehand with the expectation that you're a new hunter eager to learn, he will be ready for you to ask and shouldn't be annoyed by newbie questions. You're the customer, so listen to the guide, but don't be afraid to ask questions.

On another note and for what it's worth...

My mom got one of those implants to manage her back pain and it was, quite literally, a life changing decision. It's amazing technology and got her back on her feet and back on the road (she loves to travel in her RV).

 

[Ryno214]

Im with speck, ive heard good things about some of the guides here in ca but I have never used one myself. everyone on here has been super informative for me so im sure you will get some good info. One thing I will say is theres a lot of negative stuff on here about Larry Hamilton he is talked about all over this place so i would read up on him and his tactics and steer clear. good luck with your final hurdle and keep us informed.

 

[weekender21]

I highly recommend Pancho Rico Creek Ranch http://panchoricocreekranch.com/guide.htm

They are located in southern Monterey county, east of San Ardo. I shot my first wild pig with David Rossi six years ago. You will learn a lot from him during your hunt and will have an excellent opportunity at a hog, usually multiple opportunities. He also offers turkey hunts on a limited basis.
The accommodations are rustic but comfortable and you are always welcome to bring your own RV or tent if you so choose. David has had wild hogs on his 5,000 acre cattle ranch for about forty years. This is an absolutely 100% fair chase hunt. I can promise you that you'll leave the ranch with life long friends. David and Kathy are top notch people.
If you have any additional questions about the ranch, send me a message.

Andy

 

[vincewarde]

First, thanks to all who have replied so far! Also, thanks to Speckmisser for the encouragement. The docs tell me that I can now do anything the pain will let me do and I am looking for leverage in the negotiations

We are looking for rifle spot and stalk. Hopefully we can pick up some skills that will be useful in hunting other big game animals too.

Any additional input is appreciated!

Vince

 

[azbiggame]

Vince --- sent You a Private message,hope it may help --- Bruce

 

[Arrowslinger]

Look up Deermagnet here on JHO, one of the better hunters and guides around.

 

[dirtpoor]

Your wife may be more comfortable with a female guide I know mine was, I reccomend Deedy at Bryson Hesperia resort, great cabins and Deedy will explain all as you go along, she has spot and stalk and dog's your choice