How much do you tip your guide?

leckenmir · 03-09-2005, 09:03 AM

Hi,
I'm taking my father in law out Springer fishing in April. I've never been out on a guide boat like this. I've been on Drift boats in Florida (nothing like NW DBs they hold about 30 people and are 40'-50' long twin screw type boats) and there you gave the mates 5-10 dollars for helping out. I imagine it'll be me, dad and 2 friends i've invited along to help maintain my sanity (he's a great guy but I don't think I coulld spend a whole day fishing w/ him. Unless we limit by noon). Anyway I'm sure there are a lot of variables but IYHO what do you think.
Thanks in advance,
Charlie

Chromaflage · 03-09-2005, 09:12 AM

Here's a link to a lengthy discussion on the subject that I started last year: Guide Gratuity Thread

You should be able to find answers there.

CrF

(Just shortened the URL)

redfish89 · 03-09-2005, 01:39 PM

depending upon the experience it is common to tip 5-10% of your total bill.

Hoosier Daddy · 03-09-2005, 01:58 PM

:grin: I tip my guide all the way to the water, but only if it's a big fish and only when it runs.... :grin:

FisherJack · 03-09-2005, 02:27 PM

high_arc · 03-09-2005, 02:55 PM

I went on a trip in January and gave a $20.00 tip. We were fishing non-stop and got into more fish then anyone else we talked with.

FlyingAce · 03-09-2005, 03:00 PM

It is not my intention to offend any guides

but it seems to me that most guides around here charge on average $150 for a day trip. Even a small boat can accomodate 4-6 people. That is $600 to $900 per day for a fishing outing. Take the money you would have tipped them and go buy your group breakfast or lunch. Seems to me that it would be better spent.

Crayfin · 03-09-2005, 03:10 PM

Yeah, guides are expensive-there is no doubt but you are also paying for their knowledge of water,pressure,presentation,bait,boat skills,current conditions ect.ect.ect.

I have never had a bad trip with a guide even when fishing was tough-I always leave knowing more than when I came-so in short, I have ALWAYS tipped. Then again I tip in resteraunts too and their just "doing their job".

BloodNtheboat · 03-09-2005, 03:11 PM

I believe a tip is a good idea if you had a good time.
A guide makes his price which covers his expenses, and of course makes a moderate profit. If your guide workd hard and you have fun, a little extra is a nice gesture, that said, i have been on probably 7-8 guided trips, and me or my dad have always (fish or not) tipped the guide, I think a good number is 50 bucks, for 2 or more people, i know some guys who tip way less and way more, but i think 50 bucks is fair.
Also it goes a long ways, say you are trying to book a trip and a guide has to make a descision on who he gives a certian date to, you the bad tipper, or the guy who tipped him 50 bucks, catch my drift.
I couldnt imagine how hard it is to make a living as a guide. And think it is only fair to tip for a job well done.

The Greek · 03-09-2005, 03:38 PM

FlyingAce...you speak like you think fishing guides are overpaid and are getting rich from the money we charge. You probably dont realize that guiding is a seasonal career and you make hay when the sunshines and watch alot of TV and tie leaders when business is slow. I have worked a handfull of days in the last three months due too extremely low water conditions and I'm very fortunate that my wife has a job. Otherwise, I dont know any reason why you encourage the guy to withhold his generosity (the guides tip) and spend it on breakfast or whatever. He did ask, "how much to tip the guide", not wheather he should or should not. Obviously he already realizes his gesture of tipping could be earned and greatly appreciated. Enough on that.
To answer the original question from a guides position, I will always say that tipping the guide is optional but very much appreciated. Sometimes I get tipped, sometimes I dont. The tip/no tip does not make or break my day, or effect the way I treat my costomers the next time they fish with me. Most guides get used to being tipped PART of the time and thats how it is, nothing more, nothing less. Tip anywhere from 10-10,000 bucks :grin: if you feel like doing so, but dont feel obligated.
Chris V.

SOL · 03-09-2005, 03:40 PM

Quote:

That is $600 to $900 per day for a fishing outing.

I'm sure any ifish guide will tell you that after paying; boat payments, truck payments, insurance (that's a big one), gas @ 2.09/gallon :shocked: , rods, reels, tackle, replacing lost taclke (I always feel bad when I loose tackle that isn't mine), wear & tear on equipment, (depreciation on boat, truck & motor), motor maintance & repair, guide licsences, coast guard licsences, etc...etc...etc...

Point being, they might make 600-900 in revenue per day, but there is a lot of overhead to cover...

Always tip a guide who has tried hard all day to put you into fish whether he did or not.

crabbait · 03-09-2005, 04:27 PM

Good points guys. Let's not forget that the guide is up and at 'em long before the "dudes" are. He has to get the boat in the water, make sure everything is ship-shape and ready to go. At the end of the day, he still has a boat to clean up and get ready for the next day.

It was stated that most guides seem to charge about $150 a day for 4-6 clients. In fact, most of the time 4 people is the most you will see on a local guide boat (not talking charters, here). If you are hiring a driftboat, two customers is the norm.

If the guide did his best, was ready to go and in a good humor for the day, I say tip him. Fifteen percent is about right but just a guideline (four guys times $150 is $600, 15% is $90 but is you tipped him $50 or $100 he probably won't scowl at you!)

And what do you get for your tip? Besides thanking the guide for a great day, you leave an impression on him just as he has left one one you. Let's say you had a great day, tipped your guide and let him know that you might like to go again. Now let's say the fishing has been very good and he has a cancellation. Who is he going to call and offer the seat to?

Building a rapport with your guide can be a good thing!

03-09-2005, 04:40 PM

So Chris how is that new BMW running?

The Greek · 03-09-2005, 05:18 PM

Ya know Stew, since I traded in the Mazerati on the new Beemer, my lifestyle has changed dramatically. I went from nine speeding tickets a year down to three. Now I can afford to buy my wife a new diamond Rolex every year instead of every other year. Also I can start importing the Czars private reserve caviar again for my sandwiches on the boat. Guiding is the life to envy.

Chris V.

Broknt · 03-09-2005, 05:21 PM

WELL SAID CHRIS.

boater · 03-09-2005, 05:30 PM

Quote:

I'm sure any ifish guide will tell you that after paying; boat payments, truck payments, insurance (that's a big one), gas @ 2.09/gallon :shocked: , rods, reels, tackle, replacing lost taclke (I always feel bad when I loose tackle that isn't mine), wear & tear on equipment, (depreciation on boat, truck & motor), motor maintance & repair, guide licsences, coast guard licsences, etc...etc...etc...

the big name guides are pro-staff for everything fishing related under the sun, they dont pay what the average joe fisherman pays for, boats, motors and all there tackle

Broknt · 03-09-2005, 05:39 PM

PERSONALLY A TIP IS SOMETHING THAT IS GREATFULLY TAKIN BUT IF NOT. I CAN UNDERSTAND STUFF IS TIGHT FOR ME NOW 2 AFTER A TRANSMISSION IN MY TRUCK. TOP END OF WIFES MOTOR IN HER CAR AND A NEW WATER PUMP IN MY BIG MOTOR ON THE BOAT. BUT YOU ALSO HAVE TO UNDERSTAND WE HAVE FAMILIES AND EXSPENSES JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. YES THE JOB IS A GOOD JOB BUT WHEN TIMES ARE TUFF LIKE IM GOING THROUGH RIGHT NOW IT ISNT A GOOD ENOUGH JOB. LIKE ANYONE ELSES JOB. SO YES TIPS APPRECIATED AND ANY THING HELPS.

Lund · 03-09-2005, 05:48 PM

Not all of us are pro staffed as stated. It is greatly appreciated to recieve the tips. As far as living the high life, I am fortunate enough to have a working wife, and a second job for the off season. Without those two, I would not be able to make it on guided trips alone. Most of the guides work a second job of some sort.

Kevin Lund

Duckworth Dave · 03-09-2005, 06:21 PM

Those guides work for them selfs. There for I use the rule of no tips to a owner no mater what the type of bussness. If the rate is $100 bucks why would you pay $150. If you buy a house or car do you want to pay more? If so I have a dozen house's for sale right now and would love to sell them for more money because there nice house's. Just like the guide catching you fish that you paid him to do in the first place. The girl that cuts my hair works for her self so no tip. Now her Dad, Uncle & Brother all all top guides here in Portland area. I've fished with Jerry her Uncle a few times and caught lots of fish with him but no tip he works for himself! Ya he has a truck, boat, fishing gear but he also has a charge for his service. Pay more your nuts!
Duckworth Dave

dance for those fish!

elkhuntr28 · 03-09-2005, 06:45 PM

It has absolutley NOTHING to do with someone being self employed or an employee.

I have no problem at all tipping someone for a job well done. This does not mean a guide only gets a tip if we catch fish. The biggest tip I have ever given a guide was once when we were skunked on a Sturgeon trip out of Warrenton. He hustled his butt off trying to get us into fish, but no one on the river could buy a fish (other than those little brown catfish looking things you have up there.) He even offered a trip anytime we wanted to go at half price, you could tell he was sick that we did not get into any fish.

edit> oh yeah, I tip my barber also!!!

Grant Scheele · 03-09-2005, 07:00 PM

Quote:

Also it goes a long ways, say you are trying to book a trip and a guide has to make a descision on who he gives a certian date to, you the bad tipper, or the guy who tipped him 50 bucks, catch my drift.

It is actually this simple. If you go with a guide and want to go again and get the best date, tip with abandon. If you don't want to go again for any reason,(learned what you wanted, couldn't stand the guide,...etc) don't tip at all. We understand and are not offended. I actually find it surprising when people tip and have no intention of returning.

As much as guides love their jobs, they are running a business to feed and house their families. The people that pay the most will get the best dates. Why would it be any different?

Try going home one night and tell your family that you left a job that you liked for a lesser paying job because you liked the new employer even better.

So Leckenmir, to answer your question. If you have a good time and want to go with this guy again, flip him an extra 10 or 20%. If you don't see yourself going again with him, pay him what he quoted you and wave goodbye.

Good luck on your fishing trip.

Grant

luguando · 03-09-2005, 07:08 PM

I typically tip the guide $20 per fisherman.

boater · 03-09-2005, 07:22 PM

Quote:

Those guides work for them selfs. There for I use the rule of no tips to a owner no mater what the type of bussness. If the rate is $100 bucks why would you pay $150. If you buy a house or car do you want to pay more? If so I have a dozen house's for sale right now and would love to sell them for more money because there nice house's. Just like the guide catching you fish that you paid him to do in the first place. The girl that cuts my hair works for her self so no tip. Now her Dad, Uncle & Brother all all top guides here in Portland area. I've fished with Jerry her Uncle a few times and caught lots of fish with him but no tip he works for himself! Ya he has a truck, boat, fishing gear but he also has a charge for his service. Pay more your nuts!
Duckworth Dave

dance for those fish!

Grant Scheele · 03-09-2005, 07:28 PM

Don't go with many guides do you boater?

boater · 03-09-2005, 07:45 PM

Quote:

Don't go with many guides do you boater?

i dont need to

shlbrn · 03-09-2005, 07:48 PM

First of all, if the guide worked every day with no vacation with full boats he would gross about $50k a year. I don't know of any guide that can support his family on his sole income. Yes how much they make is their choice.

I tip based on 1) service, 2) ability and quality of the experience. I have tipped from $20 to $200. I have been with guides that did no more than the bare minimum and ones that never stopped working for the agreed time and always added more time/effort, and it was simply great fishing and learning from the better ones.

I know that most guides would rather work and not get a tip than sit at home watching tv. If you have a good time and can afford it, it never hurts them or you to be a little appreciative.

Deacon

03-09-2005, 07:51 PM

I've been with bad guides...no one here and with good guides (Marty Peterson, Rapid Robert,Fishin Mission, Capt. Hook)
The good ones I've been with have worked their butts off to get me into fish (not an easy thing to do BTW) and have earned a tip as my way of saying thanks for your efforts and hard work in my behalf.
I can't imagine the pressure pro guides are under to get their clients into fish and this year has to be a very tough one.
I don't envy them and can appreciate their skills

wanafish · 03-09-2005, 07:54 PM

Always tip if they earned it. Would I tip a guide who showed up late and acted like he didn't care all day? No way. I think you know if they deserve a tip. If they are friendly, helpful and work their butts off to get you into fish, whether you are successful or not, by all means tip for a job well done.

Crappie Chaser · 03-09-2005, 07:57 PM

Some people just don't tip,even for service above and beyond the norm. I get about half of what the salmon guides charge. This past fall I had a party of 4 on a cold, windy day. Guy #1 & #2 caught fish all day. Guys #3 & #4 were snakebit catching little and #4 nothing.The 8 hr trip was just about up and the sun was getting real low when the slab crappie turned on.I kept them out there 2 hrs over and #3 & #4 finally caught some quality fish including two 17" slabs.
My compensation for this extra effort was the fun of running in the dark in freezing temps,cleaning the boat & fishboxes in the same conditions and preping for the next day.
I don't expect tips but I sure know when I have earned one.

Crayfin · 03-09-2005, 08:04 PM

Quote:

Those guides work for them selfs. There for I use the rule of no tips to a owner no mater what the type of bussness. If the rate is $100 bucks why would you pay $150. If you buy a house or car do you want to pay more? If so I have a dozen house's for sale right now and would love to sell them for more money because there nice house's. Just like the guide catching you fish that you paid him to do in the first place. The girl that cuts my hair works for her self so no tip. Now her Dad, Uncle & Brother all all top guides here in Portland area. I've fished with Jerry her Uncle a few times and caught lots of fish with him but no tip he works for himself! Ya he has a truck, boat, fishing gear but he also has a charge for his service. Pay more your nuts!
Duckworth Dave

dance for those fish!

Huh...I have owned my own business for 10 years and I have to say I dont expect a tip nor does my business lend itself to tipping but I have recieved a few. I can honestly tell you those that I have gotten have been some of the biggest compliments I have ever recieved. Hell... I got an email the other day that just said "I appreciate what your doing" made my day. Alot of people that own their own business are not necessarily setting their own price-it is what the market will bear. I guess I dont understand the difference between working for yourself and working for someone else. I know alot of people that make more money working for other people than those who work for themselves

fishnwHim · 03-09-2005, 08:22 PM

leckenmir, Anytime you tip it should be a heartfelt jesture, not a response caused by guilt or someones opinion of what is right or wrong , other than yours of course. When I tip , I do it because I want to not because I have to. The amount should be your decision and no one elses. Have a great trip !!

dogwood · 03-09-2005, 08:50 PM

leckinmir - to answer your question - A tip is a gesture. If they worked hard and you had a good time - tip them. A tip is an added extra thanks for the effort that they put forth. Having said that, If a guide looks down on you and isn't appreciative of the amount of your tip then go with someone else who is - as long as you are being sincere with your tip and don't give him a bucket of pennies.

I went with a guide this last Sept who did and incredible job - we had a lot of fun, caught a lot of fish and learned alot too. It was obvious that he was very well prepared and knowledgeable - not to mention personable. I felt that he more than deserved a tip for his efforts. I gave him 50 bucks for the two of us. I thought it was important to show our appreciation for his efforts and hard work. In addition to a tip - he also earned my repeat business.

I disagree with Grant on one point. I think that it is still a nice gesture of appreciation to tip a guide that worked hard for you even if you don't ever plan on going with him again - he earned it. The guide is providing a service. Now if he is a jerk, wave goodbye - he probably didn't even earn his rate.

Don't ever tip anyone for bad service. Tips are definitely earned.

Grant Scheele · 03-09-2005, 09:07 PM

Dogwood, well said.

Trust me. I understand the gesture tip. On a personal level the gesture tip means more to me than one can imagine.

My point is that there is a business aspect that some people don't understand.

A $5 tip from the tightest man on earth has to bring a tear to your eye.

Crayfin · 03-09-2005, 09:10 PM

I like what you said Dogwood

dogwood · 03-09-2005, 09:15 PM

Quote:

Those guides work for them selfs. There for I use the rule of no tips to a owner no mater what the type of bussness. If the rate is $100 bucks why would you pay $150. If you buy a house or car do you want to pay more? If so I have a dozen house's for sale right now and would love to sell them for more money because there nice house's. Just like the guide catching you fish that you paid him to do in the first place. The girl that cuts my hair works for her self so no tip. Now her Dad, Uncle & Brother all all top guides here in Portland area. I've fished with Jerry her Uncle a few times and caught lots of fish with him but no tip he works for himself! Ya he has a truck, boat, fishing gear but he also has a charge for his service. Pay more your nuts!
Duckworth Dave

dance for those fish!

Quote:

Don't go with many guides do you boater?

i dont need to

why do want to talk a guy out of doing something he wants to do. The post was 'how much do you tip your guide', not 'should you even tip your guide' - Glad to know you are a great fisherman though.

deep set · 03-09-2005, 09:32 PM

This is one of the most narrow minded comments I have ever seen on Ifish...

If you don't need to go with them you must fish a hell of a lot...so much that there isn't anything you can learn from someone who fishes 250 days a year. I only hope I am that good some day.

Let me tell you that I have ACCELERATED my learning curve 30 fold by taking a trip or two a year with a guide. Do you know what that means...

It means that I spend fewer trips getting up at 3AM, spending $20 on gas, $15 curing eggs, $$'s on fishing, $$'s on food, $ buying the wrong gear, opportunity cost, etc...and not being as productive as I am due to what I learn from a guide.

Do you know the holding structure as well as someone who fishes a given river all winter? The good guides can point our the contours and individual rocks! THey can tell you WHEN you will get struck and they are often accurate.

On top of that they are professionals who bust thier asses for thier clients. If they don't they won't ge tthe repeat customers. I can tell you I am far easier on a guide who I have been with several times then a client who has never been with them. I learn what thier expectations are and how to make thier job easier...you know why? Becasue that gives them the freedom and energy to TEACH.

On top of that these guys do this, and spend free time fighting for your fishing conditions and restoration. They teach US tips that help US crowd thier office place and compete against them for thier livly hood.

I think your position is shortsighted. If I was a guide out here I would be offended and [potty mouth].

A tip of any sort is a gesture. Tip what YOU can afford to place a value on. $5 bucks or $50 it's the concept of an offer for something you place a value on- the experience.

Brian

Salty Walty · 03-09-2005, 10:07 PM

A tip does not always have to be monetary. I have in the past brought a couple dozen cookies, pie, extra sandwich, elk jerky, soda or thermos of something hot to give or share. The guide was just as thankful as if they had gotten a $ tip.

MO Slim · 03-09-2005, 10:33 PM

SOL has it right and seems to understand a lot of it. We also have family illnesses just like everyone else and therfore we too need medical insurance----ever price insurance to see how much a regular guy has to pay----about $1000 per month. However,like Cris said, we don't ask for a tip---but is sure is appreciated when given. You'll find that most of us will not fish any differently even when we know that a person doesn't tip. we're not out there for the tip; we're out there to do the best we can to put you into fish while trying to earn a living, just like you.

muddog · 03-09-2005, 10:39 PM

I hate to touch this subject but.....Maybe it's just me but{I've been guided one time}I left my fishing trip with more than I could afford to tip, plus fish! Before you decide how much to tip,take your trip,give accordingly and remember they're doing everything they can to get you into fish.If you don't think the 1-$200 is reasonable go buy a boat,electronics,gear ,and insurance it's a way better buy.That's my 2 cents

Slade · 03-09-2005, 11:00 PM

I am a self employed individual as well. Tips are rare and never expected in my trade. However, occassionally a client will drop off a short case. That man is long remembered and will always get a quick call back in the future at no charge.

The idea that you shouldn't tip an owner is ridiculous. I have known several people in my life who refused to tip. Usually these are the same folks who never pick up a check.

I am not the biggest tipper in the world, and I don't tip to be well thought of. I tip based on the effort. Little effort - little tip. Big effort - big tip. It may not be expected, but I believe it is rude not to tip a guide or a barber for that matter.

In response to the question posed, I believe that you should tip a hard working guide the same rate you would tip a hard working waitress, or what you can afford. Personally, I figure the tip into the price when I am making the decision whether to hire a guide.

Seefood Man · 03-10-2005, 06:47 AM

Tips are a gesture of one's appreciation for services rendered. If you have a great time tip the guide what you feel comfortable with and what you can afford.

On a side note, people who are small business owners are very hard workers. They have it all on the line. Our lively-hood depends on word-of-mouth and repeat business and the only way to achieve this is to work out rears off and smile the entire time. This is applied to businesses like myself, The Geek's, or my wife's business who has been a hair stylist of 24 years. Yes, at times, it would be wonderful to have a "steady paycheck" with out the tips, but you know what? We don't have to worry about downsizing and getting laid-off because of mismanagement either.

boater · 03-10-2005, 06:57 AM

Quote:

Let me tell you that I have ACCELERATED my learning curve 30 fold by taking a trip or two a year with a guide. Do you know what that means...

It means that I spend fewer trips getting up at 3AM, spending $20 on gas, $15 curing eggs, $$'s on fishing, $$'s on food, $ buying the wrong gear, opportunity cost, etc...and not being as productive as I am due to what I learn from a guide.

Brian

it means that you and me are diferent, i veiw fishing as a challenge and like to figure out stuff myself, i could care less how much it costs me.

Private-Aye-Fish · 03-10-2005, 07:27 AM

I tip based on how the service was.

How hard did the guide work to make this trip productive(sometimes catching part of the fishing just doesn't happen).

5% to 20%

Amahnee · 03-10-2005, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Let me tell you that I have ACCELERATED my learning curve 30 fold by taking a trip or two a year with a guide. Do you know what that means...

It means that I spend fewer trips getting up at 3AM, spending $20 on gas, $15 curing eggs, $$'s on fishing, $$'s on food, $ buying the wrong gear, opportunity cost, etc...and not being as productive as I am due to what I learn from a guide.

Brian

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

it means that you and me are diferent, i veiw fishing as a challenge and like to figure out stuff myself, i could care less how much it costs me.

You still could come across as less of an ....., well I think you know what I mean?

leckenmir · 03-10-2005, 07:50 AM

I never thought this question would raise so many responses. You'd think I'd asked "What did you think of Farenheit 9/11?". I would like to thank you all for your responses, even the ones who didn't like my question, made up their own and still got the answer incorrect.
I always planned on tippng and basing it on the service I received. Now I have a little better idea on how much, $1-$10,000/person.
The guide I'm going w/ comes highly reccomended by friends, Ifishers and others.
My ex-wife was in the service industry for a long time while we were married. She taught me a lot about tipping and what it means To Insure Proper Service.
As far as not tipping the owner. If things are going so bad that the owner is out there busting his hump waiting tables he/she's definitely insuring proper service. I've known some resturaunt owners who wouldn't lift a finger to help. They are obviously out of business now.
As far as those who just flat out don't tip. All I can say is you get what you pay for. I also believe in Karma. As far as not being able to afford a tip, if you can't afford to tip at dinner you can't afford to go out to dinner.

Thanks again for all the responses,
Charlie

PS let's hear it for the guides.

Keeper · 03-10-2005, 09:29 AM

[/quote] You still could come across as less of an ....., well I think you know what I mean?

[/quote]

Nicely said.

I think some people need to learn to read! "How much do you tip your guide" was the question.

Never taken a guided trip, but I know a goose guide so I have a pretty good idea how much work and prep goes into each trip a guide makes.

I agree with 5-20%...the guide is serving you the client, just like a restaurant, haircut etc.

dlgobeavs · 03-10-2005, 09:56 AM

The tip question is interesting... even more so when you compare the need to tip with other professional people who own there own business:

Real estate-they may work extra hard to find a house for you..do you tip them?

Contractor- after they complete the project do you tip them?

Attorney- may work their ass off on your behalf... do you tip them.

I guess what I am saying, is that there are plenty of people who work hard, have valuable knowledge they give you during their services, own their own business, and charge a fair price for their hard work... that don't expect a tip at the end of the day.

What is the difference between these professionals and a fishing guide? Seems to me if the overhead is so high, they should charge more for their trips and have a better business plan.

I'm certainly willing to pay a fair price for services rendered. But, I don't see any difference between what a guide does and these other professionals. I would be offended if my contractor gave me the cold shoulder because I didn't tip him... and feel the same way about my hired guide.

Rimshot · 03-10-2005, 10:20 AM

One thing you folks that don't tip need to remember is people in the service industry have a memory like an elephant. I have been a professional waiter for many years and work in a very nice restaurant. If a guest I have waited on before sits down at one of my tables I can immediately tell you what they ate last time they were in, where they were sitting, how many were in their party, and yes how much they tipped. If I busted my butt for them last time and they gave me a lousy tip then guess what...I will do the bare minimum this time. On the other hand if they gave me a great tip they will have the best experience possible. And believe me there are many many ways to make someones experience outstanding....or not.

I'm guessing this is what Grant was getting at. If you never plan to see the guide again then tip whatever, or not at all. But, if you plan to use him again then tip well and see what happens next time. I'll bet that much like the restaurant biz the guide will remember you and tailor the trip even more for you to have an outstanding day. Maybe he'll stay out a little longer, maybe he'll fish an area that you got jazzed about last time a little harder, he'll call you back quicker, he'll give you better dates, etc.

The point is a tip is for someone in the service industry going above and beyond to provide you excellent service. Yes we do get a wage but that is for doing our job. My job is to make sure your order is correct and your beverages are full. A guides job is to take you out in his boat, provide tackle, gas, bait, etc. and try to catch fish. Period. You want all the little extras(most of which you probably can't even think of)? Then you'd better learn how to tip.

As far as the guide being the owner - that has nothing to do with it. Also I think someone further up this thread nailed it when they said $150 isn't neccessarily what makes them a good profit. It's what the market will bear. And with gas prices going through the roof and inflation in general, I bet each year the profit margin gets narrower. I'm sure a few people have tested the waters at $175 and had poor results. As long as the majority of the guide community is charging $150 that's all any guide can charge if he expects to get any clients. In order to raise it beyond $150 they would all need to do it at the same time so no one took the hit.

So here is my challenge to those of you who don't believe in tipping. Go to your favorite nice restaurant and tip the waiter 20% or more. Then go back in a few weeks and ask for his section and see what happens. I'll bet you have an experience like you have never had before. It might just make a believer out of you :smile:.

Chris Nordling · 03-10-2005, 10:37 AM

Tipping, while not necessary, is a very kind gesture that is always appreciated, regardless of the amount.

From my own experiences, I've been tipped great ($50-100 pp) for trips when we barely scratched a fish or got skunked, and had other trips with fish covering the floor of the boat, and got a handshake and a smile at the end of the day.

Either way, what makes me feel good is the fact that someone
expressed their thanks, and didn't just jump in the car and drive away without saying goodbye.

I won't lie, I'm human, and I remember those folks that slip a little extra in my pocket the next time the fishing is red hot and I have seats to fill, their phone or email is at the top of the list. I'm not saying I don't contact everyone, but like Grant said, the list has to begin somewhere.

One last bit of advice- Enjoy your day! You've decided to take a mini-vacation from the office or kids or running your own boat, make the most of it. Laugh at our crummy jokes,get excited at missed fish or released suckers :grin:,make yourself comfortable and ask as many ?'s as you can think of. Just don't ask what's in the eggs :shocked:.

You'll be glad you did!

To answer the ? I've recieved tips from $10pp to $100 pp, and everything from wine to elk jerky or custom paintings. It seems on average that 20% of seat price is my average for a tip on an 8-10hr trip. That's just me,as I know other great guides that average 10-15% of seat price. If you want to tip, tip what you can afford, and not what you think the guide might expect, it will be much appreciated regardless of the amount.

Tight lines,
Chris Nordling

Rimshot · 03-10-2005, 10:51 AM

Real estate, contractor, attorney...would I tip them? Well, not a percentage. That could be thousnds of dollars. But I tell you what, if someone in any one of those professions clearly went above and beyond for me, then you can bet I would give them something as a token of my appreciation. Maybe a bottle of wine or scotch. Box of cigars. Something like that.

I guess my rule of thumb is to treat people like I would treat a friend. Think about this - Lets say you hired a neighbor kid to mow your lawn for $30 one day while you were at work. When you came home you found not only your lawn mowed but it was weeded as well as your flower beds. When you ask him about it he says no biggie I just thought I'd help ya out. I know you are busy and have been trying to get to it for weeks. Would you pay him the $30 and say thanks kid or would you flip him a little extra for hooking you up? I know what I would do.

We are not talking about throwing hundreds of dollars around here. Just a little something that says thank you for going out of your way to take care of me. Doing MORE than was EXPECTED just to try to make ME a little happier.

Full Throttle · 03-10-2005, 11:16 AM

Actually, to Boaters defense, he did answer the original question "How much to tip your guide". His answer was implicitly $0, which turned out to be an unpopular opinion, but it was still his opinion. I don't happen to agree with his position, in most cases.

My take is, that the variables are too great to uniformily throw out a number like 20%. Go enjoy your trip with a clear mind, and at the end of the day, do what you feel is right. To me, I generally tip if I feel the person has gone above and beyond what was expected, and the tip is my way of saying, "I recognize the extra work you put in and it is appreciated" But to say that it is expected that one should automatically tack on an extra 15% to the bill is ridiculous.

I also look at what I am paying relative to the market. If the average price of a guided trip is $150.00, and I'm going with a guide that only charges $125.00, but provides the same or better service, damn right I'm going to tip this guide. However, if I'm paying above average for a trip, I figure the tip is worked into the higher price most of the time. The variables are too great to set a universal standard, and each person should assess this for themselves.

With all the great service we receive each day, why is it that we tip some people, and not others? Why do we tip a waiter, but not the guy who makes your sandwich at the subway shop? Why tip a valet for parking your car, but not the mechanic who keeps it running? What about your physician who has spent half their lives in school and works endless hours just to keep us healthy? etc. etc.

If we tipped everyone that provided us great service throughout the day, we would all be broke by noon. How then, do we establish who gets tipped and who doesn't? Seems to me since we all need to make this choice on our own. The one thing that drives me nuts though is when an industry tries to set this standard for you. I.E., restaurant industry setting a 15% standard (many times adding it to your bill without your choice), or the diamond industry setting the expectation that we need to spend at least two months salary on a wedding ring in order to be worthy. If I get minimum wage service, that's generally what I'll pay for.

Anyway, not trying to add to the controversy, just adding some food for thought. Pay what you feel the trip was worth in end.

CATCH AND EAT · 03-10-2005, 11:50 AM

I actually costs less to go with a guide every weekend of the year than it does to own a boat or two or three and drive it to the locations, unload it and so on. Guided trips are a great deal and with the right guides lots of fun.

I have been with bad guides, good guides and really great guides and I will say that no matter whom I have gone with I still learn something new. I like guides that are willing to work with you, answer your questions and work hard for you when you are out there fishing. Guides that just dink around only get one visit from me and usually no tip. Guides that put in the time, effort and offer helpful tips get helpful monitary tips from me.

Those of you that like to figure things out for yourselves no matter the cost are welcome to it. I personally like results in a more immediate fashion so I limit my frustration and learning curve. I don't have the luxury to WAIT to learn. $150 or whatever plus a tip for guided trips have increased my freezer capacity by two thirds. I still go on at least 2 or three guided trips per year and cherrish those in the photo and memory banks of my life.

Kinda nice just to sit back and relax and let someone else do the work and have the worry about putting folks into fish.

My minimum tip is $20 and once in a while more on the exceptional days.

12pulls · 03-10-2005, 12:16 PM

Plan on 10% to 20% for a tip with a guide. Less if he was a jerk and maybe more if he really showed his stuff. IT depends on the guide. I have seen guides act like they own the river, whine and complain at the self guided boaters because they were messing up the guides fishing area and livlihood-they get nada. Guides that are enjoyable to be around, know their stuff, and give you a great trip, tip them as much as you can. I've ridden with both, once watched Tim Juarez GIVE a hot spinner to a guy in a boat he didn't even know so that he could catch a fish-now that is a classy guide. There are good guides who are not fun to be around, not interested in teaching, and don't want you fish where they take you to fish. IF you like that, tip them good. Tips do help with the expenses, most guides work hard. If you have a great time whether you catch or not, let them know with a tip! Good Fishing!

dlgobeavs · 03-10-2005, 12:55 PM

Quote:

I guess my rule of thumb is to treat people like I would treat a friend. Think about this - Lets say you hired a neighbor kid to mow your lawn for $30 one day while you were at work. When you came home you found not only your lawn mowed but it was weeded as well as your flower beds. When you ask him about it he says no biggie I just thought I'd help ya out. I know you are busy and have been trying to get to it for weeks. Would you pay him the $30 and say thanks kid or would you flip him a little extra for hooking you up? I know what I would do.

We are not talking about throwing hundreds of dollars around here. Just a little something that says thank you for going out of your way to take care of me. Doing MORE than was EXPECTED just to try to make ME a little happier.

Maybe the real question here is .... what is expected?

Before I continue let me say that I would probably tip... I'm kinda playing devil's advocate.

Your example of the kid mowing your lawn is a good one. If someone does something above and beyond, it certainly warrants a tip. So the questions stands. When you hire a guide, don't you expect they will work hard for you to help you catch fish? What are they doing that you didn't expect? If I paid good money to hire someone I would expect nothing less than their best effort... I don't hold guides to a lower standard.

Just curious...

Dave

FlyingAce · 03-10-2005, 01:18 PM

You guys kill me with this above and beyond stuff. If I spent $150 for a GUIDED fishing trip I would expect nothing less than my limit of fish. How can you go above and beyond because if you caught more than your limit you would be fined hundreds of dollars more. When I go fishing I am up at the crack of dawn and still have to clean my boat when I am finished. I generally end up baiting everyones hooks and cleaning their fish and dont make a dime doing it. So quit your whining and appreciate the fact that you get to fish for a living. I'm with boater.

Rimshot · 03-10-2005, 01:24 PM

The answer to your question is different for every person. Only you will know what is above and beyond for YOU. I certainly have expectations that need to be met for the price of the trip to be justified. Things like the guide being on time, using nice gear, trying different techniques, and good attitude are all things that for me I feel I have already paid for. Some things that would warrant a tip for me would be staying a little longer to try to get us fish, teaching, being extremely patient and helpful if I had a rookie guest with me, sharing some secrets, etc. All of those things to me are going the extra mile. He doesn't HAVE to do it, he's does it because he is trying hard to make your day great. But again, those are just a few examples and they are MY examples. Everyone will have different opinions. I guess it comes down to this - if you step off the boat and you're thinking "boy that was an awesome trip, that guy/girl rocked" and smiling from ear to ear - show them some love. If not, don't.

BloodNtheboat · 03-10-2005, 01:37 PM

Well ace, I dont suggest that you go with a guide then. Its almost like you have some haste against guides. You say theese guides "get to fish for a living" well if you want, you too can be a guide if you really wanted to, there is no"I can fish good" test, all you have to do is get some saftey certifications, and pay the insurance, so go ahead, live the life you soo envy. There is more to fishing than getting your limit, and if thats the only reason you go with a guide than you would not enjoy it. I too have a sled, and drift boat, and i could care less if I get my limit with a guide, nor do i expect it, what i do care about is learning a river that i will someday run, or a new technuiqe that i didnt know before, also gaining a freind on the river that knows his stuff. Thats what going on a guided trip is all about. I have been with guides that were crankey, and got us into fish, and i have been with guides that were really nice and didnt get us into fish, the nice guy would explain to me what was goin on, and how to do things, he would point out holes that usually produce in different water conditions.
Did this guide have to tell me some good spots, knowing full well that i would probably fish them in my sled in the future, of course he didnt, he could have kept his mouth shut, but he didnt and thats a great day on the river, fish or not, you learned somthing, and thats what its all about.
Do you actually think that every guided trip that doesnt limit out is a failure?? If so I got a trout pond ill guide you in, we can fish out of a rowboat, and ill only charge you 150 bucks, and i dont mind if you dont tip, but i guarentee a limit.

Cool Texan · 03-10-2005, 01:44 PM

This thread amazes me. A guy asks a simple question, and all of this breaks out.

I'm yet to go out with a guide...but hope to this year. I figured I'd tip the 10-20% range depending on the day. Then again, $20 is a lot easier to assume.

For my $xxx fee plus $20 tip, here are my expectations:

1) Teach me a few things about fishing that I didnt know
2) Dont sink the boat

Fish is a bonus when I go fishing. I went last weekend for a few hours, got nothing, and went home the happiest guy in town. I got to see some nice wildlife, watch the sun rise over the Clack, and enjoy the sounds of nothing but rolling water. That's fishing for me.

Rimshot · 03-10-2005, 01:45 PM

Hey FlyingAce, If you "expect nothing less than your limit of fish" then you should just go to Safeway and buy 2 whole salmon. It would be much cheaper for you and accomplish the same thing. For most people a guided trip is much more than just riding in the meat wagon out to the slaughter grounds, bonking 2 fish and being back in time for breakfast. It's about a relaxing day off, usually with friends or loved ones. It's also about learning a few things and having a good time doing it. For some maybe it's their first time fishing or first time in the NW fishing. At any rate there are a multitude of things a guide can do(or not do) to make the day a bad, good, or great one.

By the way, you sound a little bitter about having to do all the work in your boat and "not get paid a dime to do it." I bet if one of your buddies surprised you with some kind of "tip" to show their appreciation you would love it and it would make you feel good about doing everything. Wouldn't it?

FlyingAce · 03-10-2005, 01:51 PM

Thanks for the TIP Blood but I am serving our country right now and enjoy fishing too much to ever become a guide. I am glad that you enjoy going with a guide but it isnt for everyone. I for one dont make enough to spend that kind of money. Therefore I get most of my information from reading books and magazines and have done just fine. Maybe I should tip the editors.