What to ask when you hire a guide

 

What to Ask Before You Make a Reservation…

  • What exactly does this trip involve? How exactly will we be fishing, hunting or travelling? Am I (or others in my party) physically capable of this trip? What changes can be made if the trip is too difficult?
  • How likely are we to be successful? A guarantee of success should be viewed with caution.
  • How many others will be in camp? How many others will be with your guide?
  • Will someone other than the person you are talking with be your guide?
  • What can I expect for weather conditions? What will happen if the weather conditions prevent my trip from happening as expected? Is there an alternative trip or refund plan?
  • What is the price? Exactly what is included in that price? Are there any other costs? Are tips or gratuity included or added on?
  • Is a deposit required and if so, what is the guide’s policy on refunds? Is it clearly stated on their website or in printed material? What are the expected terms of payment?
  • Are meals included? If so, what sort of meals will be served? If you have special dietary requirements make sure that you let your guide know.
  • Is transportation included? If so, from where to where?
  • Are licenses required? If so, are they included?

 

Additional Information You May Want to Request...

  • Discuss with your prospective guide every aspect that will be included in the package price for his services. Make sure that you are both clear on every included detail and are in firm agreement on the price and services offered and expected.
  • A list of past client references. References can be an invaluable source for gaining an understanding of the guide's demeanor and skills, as well as investigating hunting or fishing successes and results. Be sure to contact a number of references in order to get the “big picture”. Be wary of prospective guides who do not offer a list of references.
  • Verify that your guide is fully licensed within the state and in the category of activity you plan on doing. Many guides are licensed in one area specifically, such as fishing, hunting or recreation. Also, be sure to verify that your prospective guide has the proper federal licenses if required, and insurance.
  • Have a few conversations with a prospective guide to see whether your personalities mesh. If possible, meet with the prospective guide in person prior to booking the hunting or fishing trip. If you clash with your guide, your hunting trip can go from fun to sour in short order. Be sure you will enjoy sharing multiple days with the guide you hire. Keep in mind that a guided trip is a personal experience; take some time getting to know your guide and determine if you are a good match. Are you more interested in a quality vacation experience or pursuing a trophy?
  • Be realistic and have obtainable goals. Realize that many factors can affect hunting or fishing trips including things, such as inclement weather, that are beyond the control of the guide. Be sure that you are not asking your prospective guide for something unreasonable, unobtainable, or unsafe.
  • We recommend that you have a written confirmation of what is included when booking a trip, which outlines each detail offered, promised, or expected on the excursion. It is recommended that the confirmation should also include method of payment (cash or check), terms of payment. Terms for cancelations or refunds should also be outlined in the agreement. Be wary of cash-only deals with no paperwork. It is also advisable to request a written receipt once the trip is completed. 

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