Most has been answered above and here is my 2c
3. Assuming I want to hunt in 2013, how much lead time do outfitters need to line up permits, CITES stuff, etc.? Is a year's lead time reasonable, or do I need to allow for more time?
Without too much outfitter BS: Yes
4. How would you rate countries as to their ability to consistently produce good leopards, at some reasonable hunt price?
Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe (in alphabetical order) will produce good leopard consistently. With trail cams and track sizes you can determine relatively well in advance what size leopard you have.
5. Every once in a while, some outfitter will post a smoking deal on a leopard, at a lowball price. Can these hunts be trusted?
It is usually an end-of-season deal. If it is advertised by a reputable outfitter the hunt can be trusted. In SA your PH must have a DG license to hunt leopard.
Hope this helps some.
