Using an agent is a personal choice of the consumer. as outfitters sell direct one can choose to use an agent or book direct. It's one's own choice.

Outfitter's claim to not like the commissions and no one likes additional costs. But if you ever have to deal direct with an outfitter when they are out in the bush for months on end and it takes four weeks to get a reply to an email or phone call, then find you need to contact them again immediately and find they are away for several more weeks, it shows the value of having some one in an office. Which costs money. Otherwise it is lost business.

I prefer to deal direct when possible however. And if I use an agent, I always try to deal direct with the outfitter on any issues or requirements. Even better make sure YOUR PH knows as often the first anyone has heard of it, is when you tell them on the way to the concession and then it is often too late.

The main thing I would NOT like to see is if the "agent industry" keeps pushing for more commissions is that it increases the price to ME! I disagree with the comments about commissions not increasing prices. Personally I can't see why I shouldn't get a discount if not booking through an agent.

So make you own choices. No one forces anyone to do it a particular way.