Looking back, it’s clear to me that many of my angling “firsts”, some of my most memorable fishing experiences and a few great fish tales all had something in common – they came about when fishing with a guide.
Except where guides are required, much as they are at far-north lodges or on treacherous stretches of rivers, most experienced anglers seldom recruit the services and expertise of a professional guide. Whether it is pride, independence, or simple economics that keeps anglers from drawing on a guide’s experience and familiarity with the lake / river, the fact of the matter is that a professional guide will greatly enhance a day’s fishing – both in terms of catches and the overall quality of the outdoor experience. To lessen the angler’s cost, the guide’s fee can often be shared by 2, 3 even 4 anglers fishing together. Tipping the guide
Additionally, what is learned from a guide – locations, tactics, baits / lures – can be used later, independent of a guide.
An experienced, professional, personable guide will:
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Similarly, guides have reasonable expectations of clients and there are behaviours that might offend a guide.