The point is well taken. I believe that one can learn much from a more experience hunter and/or guide, especially with regards to hunting methods for particular species and in particular environs. I also believe that while on a guided hunt the hunter is playing more the role of trigger puller than of actual hunter. After all, the guide gets you there, finds the game, and will even point out the best or proper animal to shoot. There have been times I used a guide and times I hunted on my own. But I have always done better on my own if I was hunting for something for which I had previously been guided.

It is also important to note that sometimes being guided is the only reasonable option because of time constraints, logistics, licenses, or regulations. For example, brown bear in Alaska requires a guide. And, setting up an overseas hunt without an outfitter or guide may require more coordination, paperwork, scouting, and follow-up than you have the time or stomach for.

Nevertheless, will always choose to do the hunt on my own if I can. No guided hunt can substitute for bringing the hard work of one's own scouting, tracking, stalking, and shooting to a successful conclusion. The best trophies are always the ones I earned myself.