The truth about guide rates

Do my rates seem low?  Funny thing is that when I worked for somebody else I never made that much.  And I was at the very top end of what guides typically make.  When you hire a guide from a flyshop I can assure you they make less, in some cases way less.  Now, before you hate me for bashing flyshops, understand that I'm just sticking up for the guides out there.  They should make more!  What I put in for that full day rate is a lot.  Before we even talk about day of costs, lets start with all the behind the scenes stuff.  Things like Insurance, I have 1 million for each angler.  never used it and always take safety seriously.  licensing fees, user fees, having a stupid website, it adds up.  Gas, lunch, flies, etc.  As you can see, a lot go's into picking a number out of thin air and charging you that rate.......;)


The spring special rate, early bird, whatever they call it, In reality is a good thing.  Everybody offers one and anglers can see value it a discounted rate.  The key is to realize that's its designed around time, usually 6 or 7 hours.  If a full day trip costs this much, and lasts this long, then the spring special costs this much and last this long.  Keep in mind, fishing during the early spring can be tough, and there really is no need to get out early or stay late, the best fishing will be during the warmest part of the day, so why not get out about 10am, stay till 4 or 5 and call it a day.  That part sure makes sense!  Factor in gets dark early, its cold, you might have to drive over the pass, and you can see why it makes sense.


Tight lines!