There’s more to booking a guide than Googling, submitting an inquiry, and showing up at a boat ramp.

To get the most out of your trip (and to be the best client) there are a few things worth considering. Today I share two articles and a podcast about the before and after of going on a guided trip. When is the best time to book a trip? How much should you tip your guide? How should you communicate with your guide?

These are all worth thinking about if you’re investing your hard-earned money, spending your time, and working with a fly fishing pro.

Check out each article by clicking on the image:

The Best Time to Book Your Fishing Trip

Time gets away from us. Sometimes it is important things. Family, work, and necessary home projects need our attention. Getting away for a day or a weekend is important, too. And, if we’re honest, a few more efficient weekends at home could probably free up at least a day to get away guilt-free.

For most people, fishing season isn’t the best time to make plans to get away for a guided trip or a stay at a lodge. Between the aforementioned commitments, the expense, and a whole host of other factors it is difficult to be impulsive. The best time to plan is probably right now.

Catch, Release, & Tip: Guides & Gratuity

On top of payment, gratuity is part of the transaction. It is a way to thank the professional. It is a way to compliment quality service. And it is a way to round out that person’s compensation.

However, a new angler may balk at the idea of tipping after he has the sticker shock that comes with seeing how much a guided trip costs. Yet the very same person wouldn’t object to tipping on a very expensive steak and bottle of wine.

So how much should a tip on a guided trip be?

Podcast Ep. 131: Guide Communication

Maybe, just maybe, your idea of hiring a fly fishing guide simply entails fish. Big fish, lots of fish: fish.

While I don’t think anyone would object to catching fish (and big ones, and a lot of them), there are a few other things that separate the good guides from the not-so-good ones. More importantly, there are some things that separate the great from the good. If you’re going to be spending hundreds or thousands of dollars? Great is probably what you’re looking for.

In this podcast, I try to nail down some intangibles that have made my guide experiences great. I think it is worth paying attention to as you plan your next excursion.