I might be mistaken but: I think most transport pilots get their start by flying for someone else. They learn the ropes and eventually understand the business which...trust me...is very difficult and demanding. Imagine trying to coordinate the following...
Hunter itineraries, pick-ups and drop-offs in town, bush flight schedules, weather issues, unpredictable caribou patterns, airstrip locations and maintenance, aircraft maintenance, FAA compliance, ADFG requirements and compliance, expediting services and more.
The chances of a good pilot just deciding to get into the transport business 'cold' is about nil. There is also the potential issue of competition, and most transporters prefer to respect and avoid the areas being served by another company. It's big country, but not full of caribou. More planes and hunters would mean more competition which is good for opportunity and pricing but maybe not so good for the quality of a hunt.
A lot of the 'we have no openings for moose or caribou' can be traced to escalating demand. Q-L caribou are kaput. Guided moose are expensive anywhere and AK-YK moose are extremely expensive compared to a diy - transported hunt. There is pressure (as in demand) for services but this isn't like opening up a tire shop. There aren't many qualified pilots and what few exist can't overcome all the hurdles required to run a quality transport business. Or maybe they just want no part of it. This is perfect for the existing companies who stay booked and don't need to advertise services at all. It sucks for hunters who feel hopeless about ever getting a shot at going.
For those searching for a pilot; I suggest thinking outside the box for clues. Forums can work but not so great. Taxidermists can be excellent sources for hunt information. Regional air carriers (at the airports) might be able to give you a list of transporters they know or work with. Game processors and butchers often know pilots. Flightseeing companies don't fly hunters but they know who IS flying people to hunting and fishing. Pilots often use their planes for deliveries, surveys, geological purpose and lots of other tasks. Sometimes the companies they fly for (contract to) can put you on a name. The key is to keep chasing down names and asking everyone if they know someone you can call. Keep persevering and it will happen.
