how much to tip a guide?

[The_Duckslayer]

Mine gets at least $4.00 each time I get a haircut. Back in my GI days it was typical that everyone gave them a buck, but then the haircuts were not that tough and GI's do not make a ton of money either :-( Take care and N Joy the Hunt././Jimbo

[harvey lee]

I guess I got this topic off subject with tipping barbers and we should try to keep it with the guides, the original question.

Sorry.

[Rainydaze]

Hey Guys!

Interesting thread. I'm a guide here on Rainy Lake. Personal experience it that I'm tipped almost always. Don't expect one, but certainly always appreciate one. I've been tipped $200.00 on a day trip at the most, but typically receive around 15%. Here on Rainy your typically talking around $300-350.00 per day including bait and gas. I'll say that none of us are getting rich, but do enjoy what we are doing. I'll also add that our toughest days on the water as guides are when the fish aren't going like you we would prefer. Nobody wants the fish to bite more than the guide. I also guide during the winter months, but for the most part up in this country your business revolves in a 6 month season. I don't necessarily think it is a fair comparison between doctors/lawyers and fishing guides. There is a slight pay scale difference. I guide because it is what I like to do, and subsequently make a moderate living doing so. I have first class equipment and am on the water 6-7 days a week. Tips in my mind are rendered when you feel your guide is above average, works his butt off for you, and you had fun. Last I checked most fisherman fish because they enjoy themselves on the water. Yep we catch a lot of fish too, but when I was younger the lessons I learned from experienced guys on their home waters far far far outweighed the days catch. A days catch is just that, but a education of the lake coupled with a nice catch will pay huge dividends in the future for you. Bottom line is especially when heading up on a 7 day trip a fishing guide will most always be able to bring you up to speed on fish movements and tacticts to not only make the day enjoyable, but also the rest of your trip. Good Fishing Guys and have fun out there.

RD

[harvey lee]

Rainy

Thanks for a guides view.

[Nate McVey]

Well put Rainy