One of the many things fishing people can spend money on is a guided trip for that “trip of a lifetime” fishing experience. Although there is an abundance of excellent fishing guides on most lakes, it doesn’t take long to figure out that some are better than others. Sometimes an angler may find that spending a little effort up front in picking the correct guide for your trip is well worth it. Picking the correct guide will take some time, research and even a little work on your part. The pay off is that by following some basic steps you and your guide will have a memorable experience on the water.
The first thing you should ask yourself is “what do you want from the guide?”
1) Are you looking for someone to teach you information about the body of water?
2) Are you interested in learning new fishing techniques?
3) Are you interested in the history of the area?
4) Are you looking for a tour of the lake and structure?
5) What type(s) of fish are you looking to catch and learn about?
Most people seem to be more interested in the total number of fish you are able to catch, this may not be the correct approach. Keep in mind that there is no guarantee in fishing and the guide is only able to bring you to places that should hold fish. With the correct guide, on a good day, you will be able to learn a great deal about fishing and catch a bunch of fish. The most important item you can walk away with after a guided trip is knowledge – you can use this information to catch more fish for the rest of your life!
After deciding what you expect from the guide, the problem of finding that perfect guide begins. First it is always a good idea to talk with friends, they may know someone who has used a guide in this area and can offer an opinion based on their experience. The internet also serves as good tool for locating a guide service. If a guide service has a clean, well-designed web site its often a sign that they are very serious about their business and will treat you right. The site will often share information important to your decision like, type of boat, equipment and often the cost. This is not to say that a guide without a web site is out of the question. Many guide services have well established reputations and receive all their customers from word of mouth. Check local bait shops, Mariana’s and phone book listing to develop a list of guides to contact.
The next step is to contact the guide in person and inquire about the details of their service. You may find that making a list of questions is helpful to evaluate each guide in the same way. Any guide that is hesitant to discuss the details of the trip with you should be marked off your list as unacceptable.
There is some basic information that will help you to decide who is right for you trip like, history, knowledge, equipment, services provided, and cost. The guides history is one of the biggest, as learning from a guide with 16+ years of guiding on a body of water is a lot different than having a 16 year old with little experience showing you around. Its also a good idea to ask if you will be fishing with this guide or an associate. It is common practice with some guide services to book a trip with you and send you out with another guide. Be sure to get information on the person who will be your guide. Keep in mind, a guide is a person who has chosen a very hard profession and if they have a lengthy track record, either they can live on a small income or have developed a good client base because they are doing something right.
Knowledge is also a key factor in picking out the right guide service. It is a good idea to explain your skill level along with the level of experience of whoever is in your party – especially if you are inexperienced or plan on having a child with. Most guides are very patient and are willing to go out of their way to assure all in your party have a wonderful experience. It’s also a good idea to share what you’re interested in learning on this trip, this can be from new techniques to learning about the history of the lake. With a clear understanding of your interest, the guide can best plan you adventure. A good guide can provide you with a wealth of information on an eight-hour trip, if they themselves are knowledgeable. Even an outstanding guide may have a rough day, but being with a good guide will increase your ability to become a better fishing person.
The equipment you will use on this trip covers everything from the boat, its size and layout, to the tackle. It’s a good idea to ask for a list of all the items you will be responsible to bring. This typically includes rods, reels, license, bait, food, beverages and the alike. Every guide service has a list of items they recommend you bring, its important to make sure you have a list of these items before you decide to use one guide over another. This is also a good time to discuss the types of fishing techniques you will be using and the types of lures used. That way you will be prepared with the correct type of equipment.
Not all guides provide the same type of service that is why it is a good idea to find out all the services available. If you are going to a location far from your home or cabin, you may need lodging for example. Most guides are able to help line up lodging or may dock in a Mariana that is part of a resort. It is also important to know if they provide fish cleaning services, should you lucky and have some fine fish to clean. Do not be afraid to ask for all services available, there may be something available that interest you.
Cost should always be the last item to consider. Often the cost may seem like allot, but after the guide pays for the boat, fuel, and gear he or she is working for a pretty cheap hourly rate. Make no mistake about it, guiding is very hard work and yes they do feel a tremendous amount of pressure to put you on the fish. Also, even though you are paying the guide, your responsibilities do not stop there. It is important you remember that you are a guest in that person’s boat and you should act accordingly. If you make a mess, clean it up and if you break something, plan on getting it fixed. As far as tipping your guide, it a good idea to ask what the average tip is and if you feel the services provided to you were acceptable then tip at a rate higher than average.
After you have reviewed all the information and have picked a guide its time to line up your trip. This often means setting up the date and time to start your adventure. It’s a good idea to write down the location and time you will meet the guide along with last minute contact information should you have trouble finding this spot or experience some other unforeseen trouble.
A good guide service primary function is to teach you more about fishing and hopefully put you on some nice fish in the process. Keep in mind, a good guide will also help you have a great day on the lake and would appreciate you referral to friends and associates. By spreading the word about a good guide, you are also helping others in their search for that perfect day.
Enjoy the experience,
Randy "RandyMan" Johnson