These days, bobcat hunters and their hounds have moved into the backwoods of Maine, but they are still there and the hunter interested in taking one of these animals can still contact them. Just be advised that I haven't personally hunted with any of the guides I mention below. All were recommended either by other guides I do know, however, or by other trustworthy contacts I have in Maine. Moreover, most are members of the Maine Professional Guides Association which generally does a good job of policing its membership, and sends out a free guide directory upon request. Still, I would caution anyone considering a bobcat hunt to check recent references carefully. In any case, here are guides I managed to get a handle on:
Nelson Cole hunts near the town of Thorndike with trained Walker hounds, and has produced trophies for 100 percent of his clients in recent years. He charges $1,500 for a six-day hunt, including meals and lodging in his eight-bedroom farmhouse with private bath.
Bill Spencer in Machias is a hound man who does some guiding to feed his Plotts and Walkers. Over the past few years he has averaged about 90 percent success. He charges $125 per day for guide services, and clients usually put themselves up at local motels and eat in restaurants.
Bob Howe, the new owner of a place called Pine Grove Lodge north of Waterville, is also offering bobcat hunts. The former owner........(continued)
