Rasmussen Outfitters

Rasmussen Outfitters has been running hunts out of Orofino, Idaho since Andy Rasmussen bought the operation in 2008. The outfit specializes in elk, deer, bear, and mountain lion—hunting the unforgiving Idaho backcountry with guides who live it year-round.

Andy Rasmussen (owner and guide) started hunting with family as a kid and now runs the operation with the same philosophy—get people in the field and hooked on hunting. Craig Bland is the main guide at hunting shows and handles elk and deer work. Kylon Gillispie runs bear and lion hunts with a pack of hound dogs that clients consistently mention as exceptional. Chris Jividen guides elk and deer. Andy's wife Alesia handles camp cooking and newer guiding duties.

Trips start with airfare to Lewiston, then an hour drive to Orofino (population ~3,000). Your hunt includes:

• •Full lodging (wall tents with fireplaces during elk/deer/bear season, house during lion season)
• •All meals: breakfast, packed lunch daily, dinner at the house
• •Experienced guides for each hunt day
• •Guide assistance with field prep and butcher delivery

Not included: Airfare, tags, butcher fees, and non-resident license ($185 base).

Elk, deer, and bear hunting operate from backcountry camps with wall tents and basic amenities. Mountain lion hunts run from the main house with full lodging. The terrain is steep and unforgiving—pack accordingly for Idaho winters (wool clothing and Pac boots are standard).

"If you want action, if you are in shape (although they do have 4-wheelers if you're not), if you like waking up early and if you want to get away for a week with limited interference from the outside world, don't miss a chance to sign up with Andy and Rasmussen Outfitters!" — Tod Booth, Cincinnati Ohio

Clients describe the experience as hunting with best friends, not guides-for-hire. The Rasmussens treat hunters like family. One New England guide who was skeptical about hiring outfitters said meeting them at a Virginia trade show "instantly changed my mind."

Licensed, bonded, and insured. Deposit required to reserve; balance due on arrival (cash or bank cashier's check). Deposits are non-refundable.

Contact: (208) 400-0048 evenings to reach Andy for reservations.