I've been an outfitter for 24 years now; just got back from a hunt and another round of hunters arrives tomorrow. I sometimes think I've seen it all.
We have a quality oriented, small-scale operation that is on private ranches. This week, we've shot two bulls, three deer and three antelope. One bull was 370, the other 350. We have top-notch guides and provide great food and good accomodations.
Every year, hunters ask me what to tip. And the standard answer is 10%, just as has been specified. But we get all types of huters. Every year, we host two hunters from PA who win a contest; the grand prize being a deer hunt for 2 with us. This year, two brothers ages 17 and 19 won. They have no money and had never even shot a single buck. They had a great time, but those contest winners never tip. But we enjoy hosting them. Our elite returning hunters generally tip 10% or more and know the expectations.
But every year, we take a few new hunters on cheaper hunts for antelope. Some of those people have never been on a guided hunt and they don't tip very well if at all. Every antelope hunter gets a buck, but some are not very able or skilled as hunters. And some tip, some don't tip well or at all.
Long story short, it's variable and it is not a mandate. A tip is an expression of appreciation for a job well done. Through the years, I've gotten some big tips and been stiffed by other hunters. Some of the biggest tips were for easy hunts with skilled hunters and some of the hunters that never left a tip were some of my most difficult hunts, primarily because the hunters simply could not shoot or even walk.
There are times I have to repeat many times "This is why they hire us" when I see their lack of ability. But as SLAM says, most of my memories are good and I don't do it just for money. I love scouting, the pursuit and meeting the diverse array of people.