I've hunted Vancouver Island for deer and bear. With some help by family living and knowing the guide in his area I was able to hunt with out the big Guide prices. Had to buy a cousins deputy guide license $75, my license $180, bear tag $180, Elk tag $250 (if the guide has leftovers NO (OTC tags) and Deer tag $125 each. Now that my CDN brother in law has passed his hunter certification he could take me out without guide fees.
As for taking firearms across you need to fill out a CDN transportation form and pay at the border crossing (no big deal). Coming back across to the US, you will need to know the Latin name of your animal (Blacktail, Mule Deer or Black Bear will not work) and harvest report from the guide. You will also need to show your 5547 forms for all firearms, spotting scopes, cameras or anything of value with a SN#. Its easier getting into Canada that getting home.