Dear Travis2282
If you are restricted to a specific time period whereby you are limited on dates, then our recommendation is to make a provisional booking to block out your preferred dates under no obligation until you made up your mind to have peace of mind. This way, you then reserve (pencil in) your preferred dates.
In the event you are not restricted on specific dates, then you have an open calendar - then you could choose from the available dates your outfitter has available.
For peace of mind: visit your outfitter at the show / convention that you plan to visit, that is the reason they make themselves available.
As outfitters, we appreciate the time that you take to "talk to us". It is important to have peace of heart on your selection of outfitter since you have to spend 5 or 7 or 10 or 14 days with such a person.
The most important thing is: get peace of mind BEFORE taking the final decision.
Talk to others that is reflected on the reference list. Talk to others that is NOT reflected on the reference list. Talk to others that have hunted recently with the outfitter.
Most of all: ENJOY your planning process.
Best of luck with your decision.
Ansie