A good fishing guide is not there simply to catch fish alongside the guests.
Your job is to make sure the anglers have an enjoyable and memorable day on the water.
Not every guest is an experienced angler. Some may be beginners who need help even with the basics.
Be ready to help
A beginner may need help with:
- Tying on a lure or hook
- Changing lures or bait
- Setting up a rod and reel
- Adjusting the equipment
- Learning to cast
- Learning a new fishing technique
- Handling and releasing fish properly
Do not expect every guest to already know this.
Your knowledge and experience are among the main reasons they book a guide.
Be a guide, not just a fishing partner
Your responsibilities include:
- Finding the right spots and adapting the fishing to the conditions
- Preparing and checking the equipment
- Showing guests how the equipment and techniques are used
- Helping when something does not work
- Paying attention to what guests need throughout the day
- Creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere
The guest may not always catch a big fish.
But if the guest goes home feeling it was a fantastic day, that they learned something new and had a great experience with you, then you have done your job.
Safety always comes first
Always consider weather and water conditions and make sure the equipment and surroundings are safe.
If you guide from a boat, go through the most important safety rules before you leave.