Thread: Tipping a Fishing Guide

That is what I do. Had only one time I didn't tip. Guy was a total jerk..

I always tip. 15-20% is customary.

Unless they are terrible 15%
Had one who wasn't ready and had me put line on reels, put lures on and he made the first cast at every spot???

I always try to tip restaurant servers and other service employees generously if the service warranted it. I was always told you don't tip the owner of a business, his charges should included what he expects to make for providing a good or service, which makes sense to me.
On party (or head) boats I always tipped the deck hands that helped with bait and equipment.
But, a guide is a one man show and I would think his charges included what he needed and expected for the service he provided. He has an investment in boat, motor, insurance, etc. If it were me, my charges would be based on what I needed to cover cost and make a profit for myself. I've had guides work their tail off and the fish simply were not biting. I did not expect a refund not do I feel a need to tip if we load the boat.
What are others thoughts on this?

I tip the help, if needed, not the Guide.

Some guides only work at it part time . They set rates low to allow famlies with low budgets to go . They put you on fish and charge much less than others I say they should be rewarded. Some even don't charge folks if fishing is really bad or next trip free . Use your judgement but if the rates are low compared to others in same area and still produce good fish on a trip . I say tip them if your happy with the trip .

I agree with SeaRay. I don't tip the owner, but will tip the hired help.
I DJ'd weddings and other events for years. Tips were never expected and always greatly appreciated.

Some services pay their help on a lower pay scale expecting tips to make up the difference for a decent wage. Waitresses are like this. I think by law they are required to make $4 something per hour. Expectation is tips will bring it up to at least minimum wage. IF your a good server you can far exceed minimum. However uncle sam wants his cut too. Next time you leave a tip, leave cash on the table. All charged tips are reported to uncle sam. We find we get better service at our local favorites when we tip using cash.

Originally Posted by keeferfish

Unless they are terrible 15%
Had one who wasn't ready and had me put line on reels, put lures on and he made the first cast at every spot???

That's just terrible. I'm not sure how guys like that stay in business.