I have discovered an outstanding operation on Vancouver Island, British Columbia that produces monster black bears, at a significantly lower price than other island operators. John Sievers San Juan River Outfitters (general delivery Monte Lake, BC Canada, V0E2N0; (250) 375 2250 or (640) 790 0703; borrego@telus.net www.sjro.com ) offers island and mainland black bear hunts, as well as cats, elk, moose and deer.

I just returned from an enjoyable hunting trip on the island of Lanai Hawaii. Spending time in Hawaii in the middle of winter is a treat, but add world-class big game hunting to the mix, and the trip becomes truly memorable. The hunt was hosted by The Lodge at Koele, owned by Castle & Cook Resorts (www.lodgeatkoele.com (808) 565-3981).

“He’s at least a 180 inch buck” the guide whispered, as we watched the heavy rack of the mule deer rise over the rock outcropping. The snow was falling harder now, and while the deer using the mountain trail earlier in the day moved without a trace of urgency, this buck moved with purpose, intent on getting out of the high country. As the buck came into full view, I nocked an arrow on the bowstring as my pulse raced to Olympic levels.

A kids’ first whitetail deer hunt can be a nerve-racking experience. Boredom, excitement, frustration, and exhilaration are a normal part of the emotional ebb and flow that a child can experience on a hunt. But add parental expectations, a monster buck, and the unerring eye of the television camera, and you have the makings for a serious adolescent melt-down, which is exactly the position Hayley Scott of Norman found herself in opening weekend of the Oklahoma blackpowder season.

I discovered one of the more unique hunting opportunities I have seen in a long time in the Canadian province of Newfoundland offered by PINE RIDGE LODGE (PO Box 999, Mt. Pearl, NL A1N 3C9 Canada - (877) 406 1055 http://www.pineridge.nf.ca/ ) PRL is a remote, fly-in series of camps operated by brothers Wayne & David Holloway. In addition to the caribou operation, they offer a fine eastern Canadian moose package, as well as a unique and exciting spot and stalk black bear opportunity for the intrepid hunter, in the spring caribou calving grounds.

I found a big game hunting opportunity that should appeal to both the trophy hunter and bargain hunter alike. I am referring to Bob Atwood’s Blue Mountain Outfitters. Bob is a likeable, long-experienced big game guide who cut his teeth in Idaho before starting his operation in the Land of Enchantment, where he specializes in quality elk hunts at a remarkably affordable price. As you probably know, acquiring a tag in New Mexico can be a difficult proposition, but fortunately, this outfitter provides alternatives whether you draw or not.