Guides

[dap306]

Should they be tipped and if so how much?

[crazy4fishin]

I think they should- these guys work very hard to make sure that every one has a good time. I would think that 20% is not unreasonable, but like any thing it would depend on the service.

[Brian K. Shaffer]

It depends on so many factors.... but for me, it really comes down to how pleasant a guy (or gal) the guide was and did he (or she) teach you new techniques that you can and will put into practice in the future... either on the guided waters or others.

just my .02 - Brian

[Phil Lilley]

Most of the guides would be thrilled with a $20 tip.

[dap306]

I tipped a guide $20 the other day and afterward I felt a little cheap. He worked his behind off for us for four hrs and did a great job and put us on a lot of fish. I feel better Mr Lilley but still cheap.

[Brian K. Shaffer]

If a tip comes thru for a guide - its just icing on the cake. Any amount... whether actual money or dinner or equipment, etc.. etc.

Again - it all depends on the guide. If he itemized lunch and every fly and leader used... perhaps his guide price absorbs the tip.

If he or she is well prepared, works well with others, is cordial and shares useful experience... its up to you if you wish to compensate them a little extra for their efforts.

[Wayne SW/MO]

It depends on so many factors.... but for me, it really comes down to how pleasant a guy (or gal) the guide was and did he (or she) teach you new techniques that you can and will put into practice in the future... either on the guided waters or others.

just my .02 - Brian

I agree. A tip for guides is a reward. Servers often don't make much per hour and really depend on tips, but while I tip 99% of the time I've been know to skip it.

Guides don't depend on tips, but it doesn't hurt to let them know you appreciate the up and beyond treatment you received, IMO.

[ness]

I think it depends on several factors. Guides aren't necessarily taking home the whole fee. It they're working through a lodge or something like that, they'll be splitting the fee. They usually cover their own costs like gas, food, maybe tackle, insurance, licensing, whatever. It's not waitressing, but it's not a way to get rich. If a guy busts his hump for me, I'm gonna let him know I appreciate it verbally, and will a tip. Most of it's gratitude, but part of it's a little selfish -- I want the guy to remember me. I've done as much as 25-ish percent.

But that's just my experience based on elsewhere. Phil's comment that most would be happy with $20 makes me think the expectations are pretty low for guides on Taney.

FWIW -- I have a lot of respect for people that can do that well. It takes a pretty unique skill set.

[Greasy B]

I don't take guide trips locally but do take them out west now and then. The last trip I took started two hours before dawn and lasted two hours past sundown. The guide worked his butt off showing us the best dry fly I ever had. The tip was $100.00 I look at it as just part of the cost.

[Leonard]

7 years in... and my lowest tip was $40.. Ive got them as high as $150 (3 guys)

I usually supply .. flies, leader, coffee, drinks, extra rods (for back ups) and

a small box of thing most people dont think of, that would end a trip if you didnt have it handy... rod repair kit/ glue/ towels (in case someone falls in)..

I have received ...

clothing (guide shirts)...

fly rods... reels.. fly lines .. maxima line (plus cash)..

extra flies to test...

and coffee creamer... lots of coffee creamer!! **** I love my Irish coffee creamer

One night I was out there and about 7 other guys were out also.. nobody caught anything (even some of the night time regulars) ... the client caught 6 in 4 hours... he insisted he paid so I told him 1/2 price ... and still tipped $50...

Now this is for wade fly fishing... yes I tye 95% of my own flies ....

It just really comes down to how well the guide did...

There are some awesome guides out there.

Fish, Listen and Learn.

And have FUN!