Tips for Hiring a Guide
By Marc Rogers
When fishing unfamiliar waters an angler can choose to research the waters on his/her own by purchasing and studying a map, talking to others who have been on the body of water and conducting an on-line research campaign. However, it is wise to do this as well as hire an experienced fishing guide for at least the first day of the trip.
I have gone fishing and used both methods and have found that hiring a guide for at least the first day on the water is the better of the two choices. What can be learned from a guide is priceless when compared to the frustration that sometimes comes when fishing unfamiliar waters. There are times when the trip is over before an angler can figure out a somewhat productive pattern. A professional fishing guide spends countless hours on the water learning as well as keeping up with the fish movements and productive patterns.
For a short trip of two days or less an angler should consider not taking a boat on the trip and hiring a guide for both days. When considering the rising fuel prices towing a boat for several hundred miles and the fuel used in a boat to search the water for productive fishing areas hiring a guide could result in a savings for the angler on short trips.
There are several ways to find a “good” fishing guide but word of mouth is the best advertising for fishing guides. Find an angler who was happy with the service received from a fishing guide in the past and contact him/her. Also, many times resorts will refer a fishing guide that past guests have been happy with. Finding a guide who has been in business for an extended period of time is a sign of good service. Most guides will also provide potential clients with a list of referrals if they are asked to do so. Always hire guides who are licensed and insured for your protection. If they are not, chances are they are not really serious about being a guide.
When contacting a guide for booking a trip get the basic information you will need to be prepared for a productive day on the water. Ask the questions of what you will need to bring with you and what is provided. Know the rates for the day, what is included with this fee and any deposit required to hold the date. Some guides do not accept checks for anything but the deposit. Make sure you have enough cash on hand if it is required for the payment. If you are happy with the service provided and/or your guide puts you on a trophy fish show your appreciation with a tip at the end of the day.
If you are interested in booking more than one day ask about multiple day discounts.Make sure the guide is capable and specializes in the species of fish you want to catch. Ask if he/she requires all fish to be released or can you keep your catch.
Most fishing guides do not provide a lunch or snacks but do sometimes provide bottled water. Always ask and bring a lunch that is appropriate for consuming in a boat. Never bring alcohol on a guided fishing trip. Most states have an “open container” law for boating and fishing guides are not paid to entertain clients who are under the influence.
Ask about what type of tackle you should bring and what is provided. Many guides prefer you use what they provide because they know it is appropriate for the situation. Guides maintain their tackle better than most casual anglers because it earns their living. They don’t want your day ruined by tackle that isn’t properly matched for the conditions or breaks in the middle of the day.
When the time comes for you to meet with your guide make sure you are at the correct meeting place and on time. If you are late do not expect your guide to make up this time at the end of the day. Keep in mind that weather conditions and fishing success vary from day to day.Your hiring a guide does not mean you will always catch a trophy fish. It does mean you will gain knowledge and experience you didn’t have before. Guides spend most everyday on the water and are capable of putting you on a productive pattern to catch fish. Take advantage of the time you spend with them and make it a point to learn something new.
Make the guide aware if you don’t want them to fish during the day. As the day progresses have open communication with your guide. If they are doing something you don’t like, ask them to make a change or explain why this may be better for your fishing success.
Always know what the guide’s policy is for days shortened by weather conditions or mechanical issues. Most have policies on how these situations are handled so be sure to ask at the time of booking the trip.
Fishing guides earn their income by providing services to clients. Most are very good at what they do and can put you on fish as well. If he/she is serious about earning a living by guiding others, you will not be disappointed at the end of the day.