- WHAT IS YOUR SUCCESS RATE?
This is an important question to ask when looking for the outfitter book with. Many hunters make the huge mistake of booking with an outfitter solely on the price of the hunt. Did you know that the average outfitter in the Midwest is only 10-20% successful? Factors that affect our overall success include crops and harvest, weather, quality of hunters, and quantity of game. Over the life of our business we have averaged 25-35% on deer hunts, 90% on turkey, and 70% on black bear. Opportunity rates are much higher but some hunters are more selective than others on what they harvest.
- WHERE DOES YOUR HUNTING TAKE PLACE?
Our whitetail hunting takes place on tightly controlled, well managed private leases in north-central and southern Indiana, south-central Ohio, and northern Maine. The terrain can vary greatly by hunting area. We hunt natural funnels on the edge of bedding and feeding areas, small woodlots, large woodlots, river bottoms, CRP, fencerows, ditches and agricultural fields. Our hunts are 100% fair chase.
- WHAT IS THE COST OF A LICENSE FOR NON-RESIDENT HUNTERS?
Non-resident licenses are available over the counter or online for Indiana, Maine, and Ohio.
Indiana- The cost is $150 for each of the following seasons- bow, firearm, and muzzleloader. Indiana Turkey is $125.
Maine- The cost for a Maine bear hunting license is $192. This includes your big game hunting license and your bear permit.
Ohio- The cost is $180.96 for an annual hunting license and $76.96 for a deer permit for a total cost of $257.92. The turkey license cost is $186.96 for an annual hunting license and $38.48 totaling $225.44 for a turkey hunt.
A complete listing of Indiana and Ohio regulations can be found at:
www.in.gov
http://www.maine.gov/ifw/licenses_permits/hunting.htm
www.dnr.state.oh.us
- WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO COME HUNT?
Hunts are listed under the rates and dates page. We strive to provide opportunity and offer many different hunts ranging from 3 days to memberships. We mainly hunt whitetails during the prime time pre-rut, rut, and post/ secondary rut. Our bear hunts occur for 4 consecutive weeks during the Maine fall bear season.
- HOW MANY HUNTERS DO YOU TAKE A WEEK?
We will only be offering a limited number of clients for each hunt. We have the ability to take many more hunters, but feel that total quality of the hunt must not be compromised for long term success. Our promise to you is to not over hunt any of our properties. Once we feel we have reached the carrying capacity per hunt, we will not sell any more hunts. We limit the number of Indiana and Ohio hunts per week or weapon.
- HOW MUCH PRESSURE IS THERE AND WILL I BE AROUND OTHER HUNTERS?
First, our whitetail hunting areas are just as good as what most well known areas in other trophy producing states were 10-15 years ago. We have the ability to take many more hunters but feel that quality and long term trophy potential are more important. The most pressure that our whitetail areas encounter are the last week of bow season and the first week or firearms. We may place hunters near each other at certain times to kill certain deer that we have patterned. For the most part, there is little pressure compared to other recognized trophy producing areas. It seems that a lot of big bucks in our areas are more likely to be killed by a car than by a hunter. Our trophy bear hunts are extremely remote so pressure is not really an issue at all as we hunt the vast area of 2.5 million acres in Northern Maine.
- DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS?
We offer discounts based on the number of hunts you purchase over time and combination hunts in the same or different states. If you have a group of 4 or more, you may also qualify for additional discounts.
- WHEN HUNTING WITH CAMP KAY OUTFITTERS WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
GPS for your vehicle- Garmin, Tom Tom- Mandatory for Indiana and Ohio semi-guided
Cooler
Comfortable seat cushion for elevated stands, portable chair for ground blinds
Bow String and Bow Hanger
Stand- Ohio, Indiana self-guided
Sleeping bag-Maine
Towel and washcloth
Personal items
Rain gear
Weather Appropriate Clothing
Rubber Boots- Mandatory
Weapon and ammunition
Binoculars/ range finder- archers
Camera
Orange Vest and Hat - Gun seasons only
Day Pack
Flashlight/ flashlight with red lens for walking to or from the stand.
Thermacell- Early whitetail hunts, Bring for Maine
Be prepared and confident with your weapon. Practice from elevated positions with known and unknown yardages and in low light conditions.
- WHEN ARE DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT DUE?
A hunt is not considered booked until we have received your signed hunting agreement and minimum deposit of 50% at our main office - 5571 East 350 South Pierceton, IN 46562. Our deposit requirements are as follows: Hunters booking for the present year are required to pay a minimum deposit of 50% to confirm the hunt. All final payments are due 60 days prior to your hunt date unless other arrangements are made. Book your hunt early to secure the time that fits your needs and schedule.
- DO YOU HAVE A CANCELLATION POLICY?
It is our desire to fill all openings "spots" on each hunt. Once you book a hunt and send a deposit, you are then 100% liable for the entire cost of the hunt that year. It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance for any hunt you book so you can be reimbursed for situations that are out of your control.
- WHAT IS YOUR POLICY ON WOUNDED/LOST GAME?
Every hunter is required to shoot their weapon upon arrival and before hunting at each hunt location. This is a very significant component of our deer management objective, which is to provide trophy opportunities for trophy hunters on our leased property. We understand that weapons, sights, and scopes could potentially be damaged in transit. Familiarity and confidence in your weapon, bow or gun, is critically important for this hunt. You are required to contact your guide upon pulling the trigger on any deer. It now becomes our responsibility to help you find it. We will do everything possible to help you locate and retrieve your trophy. However, we have to treat wounded animals as possibly harvested animals. We have policies for wounded game that are very specific that include hunt termination. It is ultimately up to the discretion of Camp Kay Outfitters for how and when these policies will be enforced, but to be fair to all clients, they most likely will be enforced. Our Indiana and Ohio deer hunts are considered complete when blood is found and the animal not recovered and also if a shot from a gun is fired and no animal is recovered. Bear hunters may continue their hunt but must hunt the same location where the wound occurred or they can choose to end the hunt. After pulling the trigger on a buck or bear, you may not shoot another animal until you have contacted your guide and every effort has been made to recover your animal. We expect nothing less than 100% honesty from our hunters so if we find out that a client shot at or shot an animal and failed to let us know, their hunt will be over. If you disagree with this policy then think about the following scenario: You pay us for a job (The hunt). We complete that job beyond your satisfaction (We gave you an opportunity and you were happy with that opportunity because you pulled the trigger). Would you expect us to do the same job again for free? We strongly suggest that you practice with your weapon before your hunt and take only high percentage shots while hunting.
- Do you have a size minimum on bucks?
Our minimum size requirements for all Indiana/ Ohio free range deer hunts is 120" and 140" for Indiana high-powered rifle hunts. Failure to meet the minimum will result in a $1000 fine.
- IF I DON'T GET ONE DO I GET MY MONEY BACK?
We offer free range fair chase hunting. You are paying us for the opportunity to hunt for trophy bucks and bears in our areas at different times throughout the season. Though your odds of killing a trophy buck or bear with us are very good compared with our competitors in other known trophy producing areas, we cannot guarantee you a buck or bear or even an opportunity. Hunting is unique because it is unlike any other known commodity. Killing, on the other hand is a known commodity. Our Indiana high fence hunts are guaranteed.
- WHAT TYPES OF STANDS ARE USED, AND CAN I BRING MY OWN STAND?
Our stands are either stick/portables, ladder, or box/ground blinds. The number of stands and when we use particular types of stands varies by location and time of the year. We understand that you may be used to a certain style or brand of stand but ask that you use our stands because they have already been set and the less disruption the better your odds are of harvesting a trophy. Please bring your favorite seat cushion with you for your comfort and convenience. You may bring your own stand on our Ohio hunts.
- WHY CAN'T I BRING MY OWN STANDS FOR INDIANA HUNTS?
Our success at Camp Kay Outfitters is rooted from a specific program that consistently generates results. Stands are positioned early in the year near known travel routes. We stay out of these areas as much as possible in order to maximize our success. It is in our best interest to place you in the best stands available during various times of the year. We will have extra stands available and slight adjustments can be made by the guides only.
- IS MEAT PROCESSING INCLUDED?
Processing of your buck or bear is not included in the price of your hunt for Indiana semi-guided and Ohio semi-guided hunts but is included on our Maine bear hunts. If you want to take your meat with you, you will need to bring coolers to do so. We can help you skin, quarter, and even prepare your deer for the taxidermist. Bear processing involves skinning and de-boning of the meat.
- HOW MUCH DO I TIP MY GUIDE?
We are often asked, "How much do I leave my guide as a tip?" This is a hard question to answer because a gratuity is left to show consideration for a job well done. Everyone's opinion of what that is worth is a bit different. We don't demand anything but appreciate everything. From our experience, the following is a good rule of thumb. If you, the client, feel that your guide worked hard for you, was knowledgeable about the hunting, and did everything in his control to ensure you had an enjoyable quality hunt, then no less than 10-15% of the cost of the hunt is what we suggest, and is more or less the industry standard. Remember that successful deer hunting is not a seasonal job. Months of glassing fields, knowing how and when deer move, setting stands, and placing you on a trophy buck is a difficult yet gratifying task. Please consider this, our guides scout on their own time year round, usually making several trips, to provide our clients the best opportunity at a trophy whitetails. They live in the area and also use their own vehicles and personal equipment (i.e. binoculars, spotting scopes, cameras, etc). Again, we want to reiterate that a tip is a personal expression of gratitude, therefore a definitive value is difficult to determine, however for those who pose the "how much" question, these are simply some industry guidelines that we have observed, and feel that it would be helpful information to you, our client.
- HOW DO YOUR HUNTS WORK?
Indiana Semi-guided hunts - You are required to arrive at our agreed meeting place at or before noon the on your arrival day. You will then sign a waiver of liability, sight in your weapon, attend an orientation meeting, and have time to go with your guide to the location where you will be hunting. You will be given a permission slip for your vehicle and will be responsible for your own transportation to and from the farms. You will need a vehicle GPS to do this. The driving distances are generally 10-25 minutes from your lodging. You must contact your guide after every hunt morning and/or evening for safety and/or assistance. It will be his discretion on moving you to a different stand based on what area you are hunting and what type of buck you want to harvest. You are paying for the opportunity to hunt trophy whitetails. Your guide is your best friend for the week (or maybe a lifetime) because he has done everything that he would do for himself including all the scouting work and stand placement. All you have to do is show up and hunt where he tells you. He will help you find and retrieve your deer, as well as check it in, and help you hang it up for pictures. Buck processing , license, meals, lodging, and gratuities are not included.
Ohio semi-guided - These hunts are run very similar to Indiana semi-guided hunts. Our hunts are primarily set up for trophy bow hunting but we also offer firearm and a few late season muzzleloader hunts. The hunts consist of 4 1/2 or more days of hunting with the exception of the muzzleloader hunt which is a 4 day hunt, and membership hunts. You will be given an arrival/ scouting day, and then hunt for the rest of your stay.
Maine-Black Bear hunts - These hunts are mostly all inclusive with the exception of your license and gratuity. You arrive on a Sunday before noon and un-pack at your cabin. An orientation meeting will take place and you will be required to shoot your weapon. We typically hunt in the afternoon starting Monday and finishing up on Friday. We will pick you up and drive you to your hunting area and walk you to and from your stand. We only hunt over active bait sites. The hunts are 5 days and meat processing is included. On-site taxidermy is also available.
Indiana High Fence hunts- All buck hunts are 3 days and include your tag, meals, lodging, and trophy preparation.
- WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SIZE/SCORE OF YOUR DEER/BEAR?
Our success is hinged on five distinct elements working together. They include: Land, Quality Animals, Quality Guides, Hunting Opportunity, and Hunters.
You need the land and enough of it to allow adequate rest and rotation of the area. Camp Kay Outfitters Midwest Whitetail Hunts has thousands of acres of privately leased hunting land in Indiana and Ohio. More land means more deer and more deer means more opportunities for you. We hunt 2.5 million acres of forest in one of the most remote areas of the country- Northern Maine.
If you want a trophy buck or bear, he has to exist in the area where you are hunting. Our hunting areas exist within known trophy producing states. The one buck rule in Indiana and Ohio coupled with excellent genetics has produced monster bucks for many years and will continue to produce the quality of bucks that you can be proud to hang on your wall. Every year we harvest 400 pound and above black bears in our areas.
You need the guides who know how to hunt these particular trophy animals. Our guides are simply the best at what they do. They take into consideration things that most outfitters either ignore or overlook. We won't tell you all the secrets for our success but what we will provide you with is references if you would like. They will tell you to leave your style of hunting at home and let Camp Kay Outfitters show you how to kill a trophy deer. That's what you paid us for isn't it?
You must be given the opportunity to have an opportunity at a trophy buck. Camp Kay Outfitters isn't one of the largest, most successful outfitters in the Midwest by mistake. We were given the opportunity to be the best and subsequently are willing to give you the opportunity to do your best. Opportunity can be summed up with one word-Time. Time means the number of days allowed for hunting during the right period to maximize a hunter's opportunity. We give you the time to hunt effectively regardless of how much time you choose to hunt. Our advice is to spend as much time as possible hunting because you never know when Mr. Big is going to make an appearance. When comparing outfitters and possible hunts, don't just look at the price of the hunt, but the time allotted to harvest a quality whitetail or black bear. We both know that this is a hunt but time given and spent hunting is crucial to a successful hunt.
The last element is You. We will give you the opportunity to hunt for trophy animals, guides, land, and the time. We just need you! We hope to have the opportunity to host you in the future. In the mean time please tell other hunters about us. We might be the outfitter they have always dreamed of hunting with.
- HOW MUCH DO YOUR DEER/BEAR WEIGH?
Generally our average buck weighs around 175-220 lbs. dressed. We have harvested deer well over the 200lb mark though. Bears generally average around 200-250 lbs., and we have harvested a few over 600lbs.
- DO YOU HAVE A FINE FOR SHOOTING A DEER/BEAR UNDER A CERTAIN SIZE OR TROPHY FEES?
We do not have any trophy fees for our whitetail hunts but have a 120" minimum on our whitetail hunts. A $1000 penalty will be enforced on any buck that scores under 120" or 140" on high powered rifle Indiana hunts. A penalty will be enforced on bear hunters who harvest a “wet” sow (sow with cubs), and $1,000 for any bear that weighs 60 pounds or less (live weight). It will ultimately be up to the discretion of Mark Liebner/ Camp Kay Outfitters whether a penalty will be enforced but to be fair to all parties involved a penalty will most likely be enforced.
If you are not looking for a trophy whitetail or black bear hunt then please hunt with another outfitter. We do have true trophies to hunt but not everyone is going to be successful. This is hunting not killing.
- WHAT WEAPONS ARE LEGAL FOR THE INDIANA FIREARMS SEASON?
You may use a bow, crossbow, muzzleloader, shot gun with slugs, pistol, rifles that shoot pistol rounds between .357 and .500 caliber, and legal high power rifle calibers.
- WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Temperatures fluctuate dramatically during our deer hunting season. Generally in October and November the temperature can range from 30-60 degrees. December weather can be mild or cold. Maine can either be very cool and damp or very warm. Check the weekly forecast before your hunt so you pack clothing for the week that is appropriate.
- WHAT IS YOUR CLOSEST AIRPORT?
Indiana -You can either fly into Indianapolis International, Ft. Wayne International, or Chicago Midway for our Indiana semi-guided hunts. They are all 2 hours away.
Maine - Presque Isle or Bangor Maine are the closest airports for our Maine bear hunts. They are 2-4 hours away.
Ohio - Columbus is the closest airports for the Ohio hunts. It is about 1 1/2 hours away.
- WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO COME HUNT?
We put a lot of time and effort into our stand and blind sites, and hunt different set-ups at different times of the season. Some work better during the pre-rut, some during the rut, and others during the post-rut. By doing this, we have great success throughout the season. Therefore, the best hunt is the one that you prefer and which suits your schedule and budget. Most of our deer however are harvested in November.
All four of the bear hunts can be productive. Most of the time the first two weeks are the most productive. Some years an abundance of food occurs in the forest so the later hunts can be good.
- WHEN IS YOUR RUT?
Our primary rut usually takes place during the 10th-15th of November.
- DO YOU USE BAIT?
We do use bait Maine, and can use bait Ohio. It is illegal to hunt over bait in Indiana. We have heavy agriculture though in our Indiana areas.
- WHAT ARE LODGING AND MEALS OPTIONS FOR YOUR HUNTS?
Our recommended accommodations include the following: We will let you know which option is the closest lodging to where you will be hunting.
Indiana - Semi-guided- Tortuga Inn-574-946-6969, Pine View Resort or Pine View Eagle's Nest (4 bedroom condo) - (574) 583-7733, or Best Western - (574) 583-6333, bring an RV or 5th wheel trailer. Meals can either be purchased at local restaurants or food can be purchased at the grocery store.
Maine - Lodging and Meals are included in our hunts.
Ohio - Jeff Riley-740-250-4924, Comfort Inn- 8226 Gallia Street Wheelersburg, OH 45694 (740) 574-1046
-What is your refund policy?
All purchases and payments are non-refundable. No refunds will be offered for any reason. If client doubts for any reason that they might be required to cancel their hunt then travel insurance should be purchased to insure their trip costs.
- WHY SHOULD I HUNT WITH YOU?
There are many outfitters that do things very differently than us. We provide quality deer/ bear, great guides, plenty of land, and time in the woods all at an affordable price. Each hunt we provide is very unique yet enjoyable. We would be happy to provide you with references of successful and unsuccessful hunters whom we have hosted. We hope that you have an opportunity to be part of our continued success. You are very important to us. We've put a lot of pride and effort into our work so, as a serious trophy hunter, you will have the most enjoyable, memorable and successful hunt we can offer. We consider ourselves to be one of the most professional outfitters in the country and hope to see you soon!!!
This is an important question to ask when looking for the outfitter book with. Many hunters make the huge mistake of booking with an outfitter solely on the price of the hunt. Did you know that the average outfitter in the Midwest is only 10-20% successful? Factors that affect our overall success include crops and harvest, weather, quality of hunters, and quantity of game. Over the life of our business we have averaged 25-35% on deer hunts, 90% on turkey, and 70% on black bear. Opportunity rates are much higher but some hunters are more selective than others on what they harvest.
- WHERE DOES YOUR HUNTING TAKE PLACE?
Our whitetail hunting takes place on tightly controlled, well managed private leases in north-central and southern Indiana, south-central Ohio, and northern Maine. The terrain can vary greatly by hunting area. We hunt natural funnels on the edge of bedding and feeding areas, small woodlots, large woodlots, river bottoms, CRP, fencerows, ditches and agricultural fields. Our hunts are 100% fair chase.
- WHAT IS THE COST OF A LICENSE FOR NON-RESIDENT HUNTERS?
Non-resident licenses are available over the counter or online for Indiana, Maine, and Ohio.
Indiana- The cost is $150 for each of the following seasons- bow, firearm, and muzzleloader. Indiana Turkey is $125.
Maine- The cost for a Maine bear hunting license is $192. This includes your big game hunting license and your bear permit.
Ohio- The cost is $180.96 for an annual hunting license and $76.96 for a deer permit for a total cost of $257.92. The turkey license cost is $186.96 for an annual hunting license and $38.48 totaling $225.44 for a turkey hunt.
A complete listing of Indiana and Ohio regulations can be found at:
www.in.gov
http://www.maine.gov/ifw/licenses_permits/hunting.htm
www.dnr.state.oh.us
- WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO COME HUNT?
Hunts are listed under the rates and dates page. We strive to provide opportunity and offer many different hunts ranging from 3 days to memberships. We mainly hunt whitetails during the prime time pre-rut, rut, and post/ secondary rut. Our bear hunts occur for 4 consecutive weeks during the Maine fall bear season.
- HOW MANY HUNTERS DO YOU TAKE A WEEK?
We will only be offering a limited number of clients for each hunt. We have the ability to take many more hunters, but feel that total quality of the hunt must not be compromised for long term success. Our promise to you is to not over hunt any of our properties. Once we feel we have reached the carrying capacity per hunt, we will not sell any more hunts. We limit the number of Indiana and Ohio hunts per week or weapon.
- HOW MUCH PRESSURE IS THERE AND WILL I BE AROUND OTHER HUNTERS?
First, our whitetail hunting areas are just as good as what most well known areas in other trophy producing states were 10-15 years ago. We have the ability to take many more hunters but feel that quality and long term trophy potential are more important. The most pressure that our whitetail areas encounter are the last week of bow season and the first week or firearms. We may place hunters near each other at certain times to kill certain deer that we have patterned. For the most part, there is little pressure compared to other recognized trophy producing areas. It seems that a lot of big bucks in our areas are more likely to be killed by a car than by a hunter. Our trophy bear hunts are extremely remote so pressure is not really an issue at all as we hunt the vast area of 2.5 million acres in Northern Maine.
- DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS?
We offer discounts based on the number of hunts you purchase over time and combination hunts in the same or different states. If you have a group of 4 or more, you may also qualify for additional discounts.
- WHEN HUNTING WITH CAMP KAY OUTFITTERS WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
GPS for your vehicle- Garmin, Tom Tom- Mandatory for Indiana and Ohio semi-guided
Cooler
Comfortable seat cushion for elevated stands, portable chair for ground blinds
Bow String and Bow Hanger
Stand- Ohio, Indiana self-guided
Sleeping bag-Maine
Towel and washcloth
Personal items
Rain gear
Weather Appropriate Clothing
Rubber Boots- Mandatory
Weapon and ammunition
Binoculars/ range finder- archers
Camera
Orange Vest and Hat - Gun seasons only
Day Pack
Flashlight/ flashlight with red lens for walking to or from the stand.
Thermacell- Early whitetail hunts, Bring for Maine
Be prepared and confident with your weapon. Practice from elevated positions with known and unknown yardages and in low light conditions.
- WHEN ARE DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT DUE?
A hunt is not considered booked until we have received your signed hunting agreement and minimum deposit of 50% at our main office - 5571 East 350 South Pierceton, IN 46562. Our deposit requirements are as follows: Hunters booking for the present year are required to pay a minimum deposit of 50% to confirm the hunt. All final payments are due 60 days prior to your hunt date unless other arrangements are made. Book your hunt early to secure the time that fits your needs and schedule.
- DO YOU HAVE A CANCELLATION POLICY?
It is our desire to fill all openings "spots" on each hunt. Once you book a hunt and send a deposit, you are then 100% liable for the entire cost of the hunt that year. It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance for any hunt you book so you can be reimbursed for situations that are out of your control.
- WHAT IS YOUR POLICY ON WOUNDED/LOST GAME?
Every hunter is required to shoot their weapon upon arrival and before hunting at each hunt location. This is a very significant component of our deer management objective, which is to provide trophy opportunities for trophy hunters on our leased property. We understand that weapons, sights, and scopes could potentially be damaged in transit. Familiarity and confidence in your weapon, bow or gun, is critically important for this hunt. You are required to contact your guide upon pulling the trigger on any deer. It now becomes our responsibility to help you find it. We will do everything possible to help you locate and retrieve your trophy. However, we have to treat wounded animals as possibly harvested animals. We have policies for wounded game that are very specific that include hunt termination. It is ultimately up to the discretion of Camp Kay Outfitters for how and when these policies will be enforced, but to be fair to all clients, they most likely will be enforced. Our Indiana and Ohio deer hunts are considered complete when blood is found and the animal not recovered and also if a shot from a gun is fired and no animal is recovered. Bear hunters may continue their hunt but must hunt the same location where the wound occurred or they can choose to end the hunt. After pulling the trigger on a buck or bear, you may not shoot another animal until you have contacted your guide and every effort has been made to recover your animal. We expect nothing less than 100% honesty from our hunters so if we find out that a client shot at or shot an animal and failed to let us know, their hunt will be over. If you disagree with this policy then think about the following scenario: You pay us for a job (The hunt). We complete that job beyond your satisfaction (We gave you an opportunity and you were happy with that opportunity because you pulled the trigger). Would you expect us to do the same job again for free? We strongly suggest that you practice with your weapon before your hunt and take only high percentage shots while hunting.
- Do you have a size minimum on bucks?
Our minimum size requirements for all Indiana/ Ohio free range deer hunts is 120" and 140" for Indiana high-powered rifle hunts. Failure to meet the minimum will result in a $1000 fine.
- IF I DON'T GET ONE DO I GET MY MONEY BACK?
We offer free range fair chase hunting. You are paying us for the opportunity to hunt for trophy bucks and bears in our areas at different times throughout the season. Though your odds of killing a trophy buck or bear with us are very good compared with our competitors in other known trophy producing areas, we cannot guarantee you a buck or bear or even an opportunity. Hunting is unique because it is unlike any other known commodity. Killing, on the other hand is a known commodity. Our Indiana high fence hunts are guaranteed.
- WHAT TYPES OF STANDS ARE USED, AND CAN I BRING MY OWN STAND?
Our stands are either stick/portables, ladder, or box/ground blinds. The number of stands and when we use particular types of stands varies by location and time of the year. We understand that you may be used to a certain style or brand of stand but ask that you use our stands because they have already been set and the less disruption the better your odds are of harvesting a trophy. Please bring your favorite seat cushion with you for your comfort and convenience. You may bring your own stand on our Ohio hunts.
- WHY CAN'T I BRING MY OWN STANDS FOR INDIANA HUNTS?
Our success at Camp Kay Outfitters is rooted from a specific program that consistently generates results. Stands are positioned early in the year near known travel routes. We stay out of these areas as much as possible in order to maximize our success. It is in our best interest to place you in the best stands available during various times of the year. We will have extra stands available and slight adjustments can be made by the guides only.
- IS MEAT PROCESSING INCLUDED?
Processing of your buck or bear is not included in the price of your hunt for Indiana semi-guided and Ohio semi-guided hunts but is included on our Maine bear hunts. If you want to take your meat with you, you will need to bring coolers to do so. We can help you skin, quarter, and even prepare your deer for the taxidermist. Bear processing involves skinning and de-boning of the meat.
- HOW MUCH DO I TIP MY GUIDE?
We are often asked, "How much do I leave my guide as a tip?" This is a hard question to answer because a gratuity is left to show consideration for a job well done. Everyone's opinion of what that is worth is a bit different. We don't demand anything but appreciate everything. From our experience, the following is a good rule of thumb. If you, the client, feel that your guide worked hard for you, was knowledgeable about the hunting, and did everything in his control to ensure you had an enjoyable quality hunt, then no less than 10-15% of the cost of the hunt is what we suggest, and is more or less the industry standard. Remember that successful deer hunting is not a seasonal job. Months of glassing fields, knowing how and when deer move, setting stands, and placing you on a trophy buck is a difficult yet gratifying task. Please consider this, our guides scout on their own time year round, usually making several trips, to provide our clients the best opportunity at a trophy whitetails. They live in the area and also use their own vehicles and personal equipment (i.e. binoculars, spotting scopes, cameras, etc). Again, we want to reiterate that a tip is a personal expression of gratitude, therefore a definitive value is difficult to determine, however for those who pose the "how much" question, these are simply some industry guidelines that we have observed, and feel that it would be helpful information to you, our client.
- HOW DO YOUR HUNTS WORK?
Indiana Semi-guided hunts - You are required to arrive at our agreed meeting place at or before noon the on your arrival day. You will then sign a waiver of liability, sight in your weapon, attend an orientation meeting, and have time to go with your guide to the location where you will be hunting. You will be given a permission slip for your vehicle and will be responsible for your own transportation to and from the farms. You will need a vehicle GPS to do this. The driving distances are generally 10-25 minutes from your lodging. You must contact your guide after every hunt morning and/or evening for safety and/or assistance. It will be his discretion on moving you to a different stand based on what area you are hunting and what type of buck you want to harvest. You are paying for the opportunity to hunt trophy whitetails. Your guide is your best friend for the week (or maybe a lifetime) because he has done everything that he would do for himself including all the scouting work and stand placement. All you have to do is show up and hunt where he tells you. He will help you find and retrieve your deer, as well as check it in, and help you hang it up for pictures. Buck processing , license, meals, lodging, and gratuities are not included.
Ohio semi-guided - These hunts are run very similar to Indiana semi-guided hunts. Our hunts are primarily set up for trophy bow hunting but we also offer firearm and a few late season muzzleloader hunts. The hunts consist of 4 1/2 or more days of hunting with the exception of the muzzleloader hunt which is a 4 day hunt, and membership hunts. You will be given an arrival/ scouting day, and then hunt for the rest of your stay.
Maine-Black Bear hunts - These hunts are mostly all inclusive with the exception of your license and gratuity. You arrive on a Sunday before noon and un-pack at your cabin. An orientation meeting will take place and you will be required to shoot your weapon. We typically hunt in the afternoon starting Monday and finishing up on Friday. We will pick you up and drive you to your hunting area and walk you to and from your stand. We only hunt over active bait sites. The hunts are 5 days and meat processing is included. On-site taxidermy is also available.
Indiana High Fence hunts- All buck hunts are 3 days and include your tag, meals, lodging, and trophy preparation.
- WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SIZE/SCORE OF YOUR DEER/BEAR?
Our success is hinged on five distinct elements working together. They include: Land, Quality Animals, Quality Guides, Hunting Opportunity, and Hunters.
You need the land and enough of it to allow adequate rest and rotation of the area. Camp Kay Outfitters Midwest Whitetail Hunts has thousands of acres of privately leased hunting land in Indiana and Ohio. More land means more deer and more deer means more opportunities for you. We hunt 2.5 million acres of forest in one of the most remote areas of the country- Northern Maine.
If you want a trophy buck or bear, he has to exist in the area where you are hunting. Our hunting areas exist within known trophy producing states. The one buck rule in Indiana and Ohio coupled with excellent genetics has produced monster bucks for many years and will continue to produce the quality of bucks that you can be proud to hang on your wall. Every year we harvest 400 pound and above black bears in our areas.
You need the guides who know how to hunt these particular trophy animals. Our guides are simply the best at what they do. They take into consideration things that most outfitters either ignore or overlook. We won't tell you all the secrets for our success but what we will provide you with is references if you would like. They will tell you to leave your style of hunting at home and let Camp Kay Outfitters show you how to kill a trophy deer. That's what you paid us for isn't it?
You must be given the opportunity to have an opportunity at a trophy buck. Camp Kay Outfitters isn't one of the largest, most successful outfitters in the Midwest by mistake. We were given the opportunity to be the best and subsequently are willing to give you the opportunity to do your best. Opportunity can be summed up with one word-Time. Time means the number of days allowed for hunting during the right period to maximize a hunter's opportunity. We give you the time to hunt effectively regardless of how much time you choose to hunt. Our advice is to spend as much time as possible hunting because you never know when Mr. Big is going to make an appearance. When comparing outfitters and possible hunts, don't just look at the price of the hunt, but the time allotted to harvest a quality whitetail or black bear. We both know that this is a hunt but time given and spent hunting is crucial to a successful hunt.
The last element is You. We will give you the opportunity to hunt for trophy animals, guides, land, and the time. We just need you! We hope to have the opportunity to host you in the future. In the mean time please tell other hunters about us. We might be the outfitter they have always dreamed of hunting with.
- HOW MUCH DO YOUR DEER/BEAR WEIGH?
Generally our average buck weighs around 175-220 lbs. dressed. We have harvested deer well over the 200lb mark though. Bears generally average around 200-250 lbs., and we have harvested a few over 600lbs.
- DO YOU HAVE A FINE FOR SHOOTING A DEER/BEAR UNDER A CERTAIN SIZE OR TROPHY FEES?
We do not have any trophy fees for our whitetail hunts but have a 120" minimum on our whitetail hunts. A $1000 penalty will be enforced on any buck that scores under 120" or 140" on high powered rifle Indiana hunts. A penalty will be enforced on bear hunters who harvest a “wet” sow (sow with cubs), and $1,000 for any bear that weighs 60 pounds or less (live weight). It will ultimately be up to the discretion of Mark Liebner/ Camp Kay Outfitters whether a penalty will be enforced but to be fair to all parties involved a penalty will most likely be enforced.
If you are not looking for a trophy whitetail or black bear hunt then please hunt with another outfitter. We do have true trophies to hunt but not everyone is going to be successful. This is hunting not killing.
- WHAT WEAPONS ARE LEGAL FOR THE INDIANA FIREARMS SEASON?
You may use a bow, crossbow, muzzleloader, shot gun with slugs, pistol, rifles that shoot pistol rounds between .357 and .500 caliber, and legal high power rifle calibers.
- WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Temperatures fluctuate dramatically during our deer hunting season. Generally in October and November the temperature can range from 30-60 degrees. December weather can be mild or cold. Maine can either be very cool and damp or very warm. Check the weekly forecast before your hunt so you pack clothing for the week that is appropriate.
- WHAT IS YOUR CLOSEST AIRPORT?
Indiana -You can either fly into Indianapolis International, Ft. Wayne International, or Chicago Midway for our Indiana semi-guided hunts. They are all 2 hours away.
Maine - Presque Isle or Bangor Maine are the closest airports for our Maine bear hunts. They are 2-4 hours away.
Ohio - Columbus is the closest airports for the Ohio hunts. It is about 1 1/2 hours away.
- WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO COME HUNT?
We put a lot of time and effort into our stand and blind sites, and hunt different set-ups at different times of the season. Some work better during the pre-rut, some during the rut, and others during the post-rut. By doing this, we have great success throughout the season. Therefore, the best hunt is the one that you prefer and which suits your schedule and budget. Most of our deer however are harvested in November.
All four of the bear hunts can be productive. Most of the time the first two weeks are the most productive. Some years an abundance of food occurs in the forest so the later hunts can be good.
- WHEN IS YOUR RUT?
Our primary rut usually takes place during the 10th-15th of November.
- DO YOU USE BAIT?
We do use bait Maine, and can use bait Ohio. It is illegal to hunt over bait in Indiana. We have heavy agriculture though in our Indiana areas.
- WHAT ARE LODGING AND MEALS OPTIONS FOR YOUR HUNTS?
Our recommended accommodations include the following: We will let you know which option is the closest lodging to where you will be hunting.
Indiana - Semi-guided- Tortuga Inn-574-946-6969, Pine View Resort or Pine View Eagle's Nest (4 bedroom condo) - (574) 583-7733, or Best Western - (574) 583-6333, bring an RV or 5th wheel trailer. Meals can either be purchased at local restaurants or food can be purchased at the grocery store.
Maine - Lodging and Meals are included in our hunts.
Ohio - Jeff Riley-740-250-4924, Comfort Inn- 8226 Gallia Street Wheelersburg, OH 45694 (740) 574-1046
-What is your refund policy?
All purchases and payments are non-refundable. No refunds will be offered for any reason. If client doubts for any reason that they might be required to cancel their hunt then travel insurance should be purchased to insure their trip costs.
- WHY SHOULD I HUNT WITH YOU?
There are many outfitters that do things very differently than us. We provide quality deer/ bear, great guides, plenty of land, and time in the woods all at an affordable price. Each hunt we provide is very unique yet enjoyable. We would be happy to provide you with references of successful and unsuccessful hunters whom we have hosted. We hope that you have an opportunity to be part of our continued success. You are very important to us. We've put a lot of pride and effort into our work so, as a serious trophy hunter, you will have the most enjoyable, memorable and successful hunt we can offer. We consider ourselves to be one of the most professional outfitters in the country and hope to see you soon!!!
