Our Team. We pride ourselves on building lifelong friendships with our guest. We are here to exceed expectations, which is how we continuously rank among the top outfitters in the nation.

Mark Clifford - Founder, CEO & Owner

Mark Clifford – Owner, Outfitter & Industry Leader

Mark Clifford is the founder and owner of Premier Outfitters and a nationally recognized figure in the whitetail outfitting world. With over five decades of experience and an unwavering passion for the outdoors, Mark has developed Premier Outfitters into one of the most respected trophy whitetail destinations in North America.

Mark’s expertise in habitat design, herd management, and client experience has earned him widespread recognition in the hunting community. He has been featured on major outdoor television shows such as Deer & Deer Hunting TV, Buck Commander, North American Whitetail TV, as well as in top publications like North American Whitetail, Outdoor Life, Buck Masters,NRA Magazine and Field & Stream. He is a sought-after guest on hunting podcasts and a respected voice on topics ranging from QDM to outfitting ethics.

Beyond his media presence, Mark has guided scores of hunters to their dream bucks—many of which have made the Boone & Crockett and Pope & Young record books. His meticulous attention to detail and hands-on leadership ensure that every hunter, whether a seasoned veteran or first-timer, receives a world-class experience.

Mark is also known for building lasting relationships with clients, many of whom return year after year. His philosophy is simple: combine elite land management, personal service, and a deep respect for the whitetail deer—and the results will speak for themselves.

READ FULL BIO

Erik Pacheco Operations manager/guide

Erik – Senior Guide & Operations Manager

Since joining Premier Outfitters in 2009, Erik has been an indispensable member of the team, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and reputation. Renowned for his professionalism, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, Erik has guided countless hunters to what many call “the hunt and adventure of a lifetime.”

A decorated military veteran and currently serving as Deputy Chief of Police in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Erik brings leadership, discipline, and a calm presence to every hunt. His background in service and law enforcement translates seamlessly into his role as Operations manager and senior guide—providing safety, structure, and top-tier hospitality in the field.

When he's not serving his community, Erik can be found preparing farms for the upcoming season, scouting properties, and producing engaging video content for Premier Outfitters’ social media channels. His deep passion for hunting and storytelling helps capture the essence of what makes the Premier Outfitters experience truly special.

Micah McKnight Guide

Micah – Whitetail Guide & Local Expert

Born and raised in Christian County, Kentucky, Micah has spent a lifetime exploring the very woods that Premier Outfitters now proudly hunts. His deep roots in the region and firsthand knowledge of the land make him an invaluable asset to our team and to every hunter he guides.

A seasoned whitetail expert, Micah’s familiarity with the terrain, deer patterns, and stand placements provides our guests with a distinct advantage. His ability to consistently put hunters in prime positions for success is a direct result of years spent studying these farms and the mature bucks that roam them.

With Micah as your guide, you're not just hunting—you’re tapping into a legacy of local experience and unmatched whitetail insight.

Clint Dulin - Guide/ North camp manager

Clint – Guide &  North Camp Manager

Clint’s passion for hunting began at an early age—he harvested his first squirrel at just 4 years old and took his first deer by age 8. Taught by his father, Clint developed a deep love for the outdoors that has only grown stronger over the years. Today, he finds purpose and joy in passing that knowledge on to his own children and others, sharing the experience of the hunt and the beauty of God’s creation.

A lifelong resident of Christian County, Kentucky, Clint considers it a true blessing to live in one of the nation’s premier regions for trophy whitetail and wild turkey. His deep roots in the area give him a unique understanding of the land, game movement, and seasonal patterns—insight that consistently leads to successful hunts.

Since joining Premier Outfitters in 2009, Clint has served as both a seasoned guide and respected camp manager. Known for his dedication, knowledge, and calm presence in the field, he’s earned a reputation as one of the top whitetail and turkey guides in the industry. Whether he’s helping a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, Clint brings the same level of care, integrity, and enthusiasm to every hunt.

Thad Hopper - Guide

Thad – Veteran Guide, Local Expert & Man of Faith

A proud Western Kentucky native, Thad brings decades of hunting experience and deep-rooted local knowledge to the Premier Outfitters team. Born and raised in Christian County, he has spent a lifetime in the heart of big buck and longbeard country—raising his family and living out his passion for the outdoors.

Thad is widely respected for his ability to locate and understand mature trophy whitetails and wise old toms. His instincts, attention to detail, and knowledge of the land are unmatched, making him a trusted guide and valuable resource for hunters year after year.

Beyond his hunting expertise, Thad is a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and openly shares his faith with those around him. His love for the Lord is a guiding force in his life, and he considers it a blessing to be able to speak about his Savior while spending time in God’s creation. His humility, wisdom, and spiritual strength bring an added layer of depth to every hunt and every relationship he builds in camp.

North camp chef/hostess

Phyllis Johnson – North Camp Hostess & Chef

A proud Western Kentucky native, Phyllis Johnson has been a cornerstone of the Premier Outfitters experience for over a decade. As the North Camp hostess and chef, she ensures that every aspect of lodge life runs seamlessly—from assigning rooms and planning menus to serving up unforgettable Southern meals.

Phyllis is known not only for her warm hospitality but also for her incredible home-cooked dishes that have become a highlight of the hunt for many guests. Year after year, she receives glowing reviews from hunters who leave with full bellies and fond memories.

At Premier Outfitters, Phyllis doesn’t just cook—she helps make camp feel like home.

Chef - Brian Denny

Brian – Head Chef, South Lodge

A proud Western Kentucky native, Brian is widely known across the region for his exceptional Southern cuisine. With a well-earned reputation as a sought-after chef, he has been entrusted to serve crowds of up to 800 guests at major events, including corporate gatherings and weddings throughout Kentucky.

At Premier Outfitters, Brian leads the culinary team at the South Lodge, ensuring every hunter is well-fed and taken care of with hearty, home-cooked meals. From sunrise breakfasts to evening feasts, Brian’s cooking is a key part of the Premier experience—delivering comfort, tradition, and flavor in every bite.

When you hunt with us, rest assured—you won’t leave hungry.

Carson Hull Guide

Carson – Guide & Outdoor Media Specialist

Carson brings a lifelong passion for the outdoors to the Premier Outfitters team. Having spent his youth hunting and fishing across the country, Carson developed a deep appreciation for wildlife and a sharp skill set that spans well beyond the field.

While Whitetail deer and Eastern turkey remain at the top of his priorities as a guide, Carson’s expertise doesn’t stop at the hunt. He is a licensed professional guide with a strong background in whitetail property management, understanding the science and strategy behind growing and harvesting mature bucks.

In addition to his field skills, Carson is also an accomplished outdoor photographer and videographer, with his work featured on numerous nationally broadcast hunting shows and media platforms. His ability to capture the hunt with clarity and emotion adds a powerful storytelling element to the Premier Outfitters brand.

With a unique blend of guiding experience, land stewardship, and visual storytelling, Carson is a vital part of what makes the Premier experience truly world-class.

Carson Robinson-Guide

Carson – Whitetail & Turkey Guide

Carson hails from the small town of Stockbridge, Michigan, where his love for the outdoors was forged in the forests, rivers, and lakes of both Northern and Southern Michigan. From an early age, he dedicated himself to hunting and fishing—developing a deep passion and respect for wildlife and wild places.

Carson's guiding experience spans across the country. He has led hunters during Michigan’s famed King Salmon run, pursued Eastern turkeys and whitetails in the Midwest, tracked big game across the rugged badlands of New Mexico, and navigated the high elevations of Colorado in search of elk and mule deer.

While his guiding resume is diverse, Carson’s true passion lies in chasing trophy whitetail and longbeard turkeys. After several years of conversations and a shared vision, Carson officially joined the Premier Outfitters team, committing his skills and energy to guiding in Kentucky’s premier hunting territory.

With a strong work ethic, and a deep love for the hunt, Carson brings both experience and enthusiasm to every client he guides.

Guide Matt Digger Mckee

Matt “Digger” McKee – Farm Manager & Guide

As the Farm Manager and one of our guides at Premier Outfitters, Matt “Digger” McKee plays a vital role in the success of our operations in Western Kentucky. With an unmatched work ethic and deep passion for land and wildlife, Digger oversees all aspects of habitat and property management across our extensive hunting properties.

Digger is responsible for planting and maintaining food plots, improving native habitat, and managing the overall health of the land to support strong, sustainable deer populations. He ensures stand and blind setups are optimal and safe, and keeps roads, trails, and client areas in top condition throughout the year. Digger 

In addition to his farm management duties, Digger is an experienced and highly skilled guide. His intimate knowledge of the land, game movement, and stand placement ensures our hunters have the best possible chance at a successful and memorable hunt.

With his hands-on approach and deep commitment to conservation and quality deer management, Digger is an invaluable part of the Premier Outfitters team—ensuring that every detail behind the scenes supports the world-class hunting experience we deliver.

A J Allison Guide

A.J. – Guide & Outdoorsman

A.J. brings a unique and powerful dynamic to the Premier Outfitters team. Born and raised in Cherokee, North Carolina, he is a proud citizen of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and comes from a long lineage of hunters and outdoorsmen.

Growing up surrounded by tribal lands and a family deeply rooted in the hunting tradition, A.J. developed a natural instinct and deep understanding of the outdoors from an early age. Throughout his life, he has successfully hunted whitetail deer, Eastern wild turkey, coyotes, black bear, and wild hogs—gaining hands-on experience and a deep respect for each species.

In addition to his hunting expertise, A.J. is also a professional fly fishing guide, further showcasing his versatility and passion for the outdoors. His calm demeanor, sharp instincts, and cultural heritage bring an enriching presence to every hunt and make him a valued member of the Premier Outfitters team.

Marshall Evans Guide

Marshall – Local Guide & Whitetail Specialist

Born and raised in Kentucky, Marshall brings a lifetime of local knowledge and firsthand experience to the Premier Outfitters team. His deep familiarity with the land we hunt—and the way mature Western Kentucky bucks move through it—gives him a strategic edge that consistently benefits our clients.

An accomplished hunter with both bow and rifle, Marshall has harvested his share of impressive bucks over the years. His skill, patience, and instinct in the field make him a trusted guide for hunters pursuing the whitetail of a lifetime.

Beyond his hunting expertise, Marshall is known for his larger-than-life personality and infectious positivity. His upbeat attitude and natural ability to connect with people add an extra layer of enjoyment to the Premier Outfitters experience, turning great hunts into unforgettable memories.