I haven't shot the "unguided" area, but I did shoot the Rosebud in June. I use Wes Colombe's service there in Mission (4th trip up there for me). We talked to several locals while eating at the Antelope Inn's restaurant, and they said the shooting was pretty good up there, at least, there were lots of dogs.......
I like Wes' service, but he only guides during May/June, then goes back to work (his phrasing, not mine) With a guide, the license is $35+ $2.50 handling charge. Wes owns the Maverick Motel, and his fee is $375, for two days shooting, three nights in the motel. He furnishes a counterfeit copy of the BR pivot bench, and his guides know the area really well. I don't think you can beat that deal with a stick. Wes has always put us into dogs really well, and he's a fun guy to BS with, and his guides are top notch.