Fishing Guide Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  Hiring a fishing guide is a way to get the best result from the time you spend fishing. A professional fishing guide can offer advice on the type of bait to use for the type of fish you’re hoping to catch. A fishing guide can also offer insight on where specific types of fish are most likely to be caught at different times of the day.
  

  
  

  Some guides offer packages that include the supplies you need, such as poles and bait. Others let you know what you need to bring. It can be especially helpful to hire a guide if you’re visiting an unfamiliar area or you're new to the sport of fishing.
  
  

• What is a fishing guide?

  A fishing guide is an experienced individual who helps others achieve success when fishing. Guides may lead guests to a body of water or charter a boat for fishing in water that can’t be accessed from the shore. Fishing guides also often share stories to keep guests entertained when the fish aren’t biting.

• What types of fishing guides are there?

  There are 12 main types of fishing, and you can hire a guide for whichever type you want to pursue:
  

  • Bank fishing
  • Bow-fishing
  • Drop-lining
  • Freshwater fishing
  • Fly fishing
  • Ice fishing
  • Jigging and spinning
  • Kayak fishing
  • Saltwater fishing
  • Spearfishing
  • Surfcasting
  • Trolling

• How much does a fishing guide cost?

  Some fishing guides charge about $200 for a full day of fishing, while others may charge around $425 for six hours. Numerous factors affect the price, including the type of fish you want to catch, if you’re fishing from shore or a boat, and whether you’re in a popular tourist location.

• How much are guided fishing trips?

  The price for guided fishing trips varies depending on location, length of the trip, and the number of people taking part. For example, a seven day, six night fishing trip for two to Alaska costs about $4,575. A half-day fishing trip in Alaska costs about $175 per person.

• How much should I tip a fishing guide?

  A typical tip for a fishing guide is 15-20% of the total bill. For example, if the total cost for the guide is $300, a reasonable tip would be between $45 and $60. If you have an exceptionally good time, you may want to give a higher tip to thank your guide.

• How do I prepare for a fishing charter?

  To prepare for a fishing trip, read the charter company’s information and talk to the fishing guide. Discuss your skill and past fishing experience. If you’re new to fishing, consider how hands-on you want to be in terms of baiting hooks and taking fish off hooks and ask your guide how to best prepare.