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BoatUS
ANGLER has developed a Fishing Guide Checklist
to offer our members assistance in selecting the right guide
or charter for a more enjoyable day on the water.
Use
this checklist when researching or contacting a potential
Fishing Guide or Charter. For more detailed information please
read Choosing
A Fishing Guide
- Do
you offer a discount to BoatUS Members? How much is the
discount?
- What
is provided?
- What
equipment do you use?
- Can
I bring my own equipment?
- Do
you charge extra for live bait?
- What
do I need to bring?
- Do
I need a state license? Do you sell them?
- Does
your insurance cover liability? Liability limits?
-
Are you USCG or State licensed?
- How
many people can you accommodate? Are children allowed?
-
Do you provide life jackets/PFD's?
- Do
you have a first-aid kit onboard?
-
What are your rates? Do you offer Half-day and Full-day
rates?
- Do
you require a deposit? How much?
- Do
you provide lunch, or drinks and snacks?
-
What is the departure time? Where should we meet?
- What
species will we fish for? Are the catch or creel limits?
- Do
you practice Catch & Release?
- Can
you take a digital photo of my catch?
- Do
you provide a cooler and/or ice for my catch?
- Will
you fillet, wrap and/or ship my catch?
- What
is your cancellation policy?
- What
is your inclement weather policy?
- Do
you have suggestions for lodging in the area?
- Do
you offer a discounts on any lodging?
- Can
you provide transportation from my hotel to the boat?
Suggestions:
- Research
your guide: qualifications, experience, background, Member
of a professional guides association? NOTE:
The local Chamber of Commerce and Guide Associations can
be an excellent source of information regarding guides and
charters.
- Ask
friends or fellow anglers for recommendations
- Book
early
- Speak
with your guide directly for information/questions
- Going
on a walk-in trip can allow you to learn about waters that
you can come back to and fish the next day
- Let
your guide know if you are bringing your own equipment
- Mention
your fishing skills, or if anyone else in your party is
inexperienced
- Get
your fishing license in advance if possible
- Bring
your camera
- Bring
rain gear that can be bundled easily
- In
summer, wear light colored clothing; in fall bring a jacket
or sweatshirt
- Bring
sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and/or a hat
- Tip
your guide
- Most
guides do not allow alcoholic beverages, plus many insurance
policies would not provide coverage if alcohol is consumed.

Click Here to Find a Guide Or Charter
Please
note that BoatUS does not endorse or guarantee the performance
or services of fishing guides or charters listed. No warranties,
expressed or implied, are intended or created by this directory.
Any questions regarding the services provided by these guides
or charters, their cost, or the content of their websites
should be discussed with the individual guide or charter.
Return
to How-To: Fishing Basics
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