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: keep you safe on the water and in the bush prepare, equip, launch, and operate the boat insure the best fishing experience possible not fish himself unless invited to do so instruct guests on angling techniques assist with fish handling, photos, equipment issues abide by MNR&F fishing regs and camp policies encourage and demonstrate conservation techniques prepare shore lunch with just-caught fish engage in friendly dialogue throughout the day avoid behaviours that might offend his clients

Similarly, guides have reasonable expectations of clients and there are behaviours that might offend a guide.