Reviewing a list of questions with both the outfitter and the references will help you gain the most knowledge (see list). Remember that outfitters are selling hunts for money. They must cash flow their operation whether they are full- or part-time. But like any other product or service, there will be variability in the quality you receive.

Your job is to make the best possible decision you can with the information you have gained from your research and phone calls. Educate yourself by calling as many outfitters and references as possible. If you do, you'll greatly reduce the chance of having a "failed" hunt. What's more, you'll greatly increase your chances of tagging a trophy of a lifetime! Do your homework and good luck!

HUNTING SUCCESSFULLY WITH YOUR OUTFITTER
Now that you've gone through the process of booking a top outfitter, what are some of the things you should do to ensure that your dream whitetail hunt will be successful? For one thing, if you want to come home with a trophy buck, you'll have to hunt harder and smarter. In most regions, a trophy whitetail will be 3 1/2 to 6 1/2 years old, and he's had plenty of experience dealing with human intruders like you! Here are 16 guidelines that might aid you in making that much-anticipated trip to the taxidermist.

1) Be quiet and don't stare.
Much has been written and discussed about the deer's sense of smell, and rightly so. But don't underestimate how well those big ears can hear. A buck's sense of hearing is amazing. Any foreign noise will put him on alert. Also, never make eye contact with him. Bucks seem to have a sixth sense when being stared at. Look away if a deer is looking toward you or squint your eyes. Avoid making direct eye contact at all costs.

2) Minimize movement.
Even though a deer's eyes are on the side of its head, that buck or doe can still pick up on very slight movements that are abnormal to their environment. A deer's range of vision is much better than ours, but focused vision is not. Regardless, keeping your motions slow and deliberate will help keep you hidden. Camouflage does help, but don't rely totally on the most modern camo to save you from being pinned because you can't sit still.

3) Use adequate firepower.
Trophy bucks are usually larger in body size and have more stamina than younger deer, so you may need to think about firepower. This doesn't mean that you need to shoot a heavy-kicking magnum. Simply step up your bullet weight in your favorite deer rifle and consider using a premium bullet that has controlled expansion properties. Many shotgun slugs, muzzleloader bullets and bow setups are already inherently adequate for oversized bucks. Know your range limitations and practice often before the hunt.

4) Pass up younger bucks.
Okay, I know this is easier said than done. But if you want a real wallhanger, you must let the smaller bucks walk. Oftentimes, this may mean that you are passing on bigger bucks than you have ever had the opportunity to harvest. Before you pull the trigger, consider your goals and where you are hunting. If you think you have a legitimate chance to shoot a 150-class buck, don't be tempted by the first 135-class buck you see. This isn't like bass fishing where you can throw him back.

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