Common questions from first-time anglers booking a guided trip. Everything below is drawn from our directory data and from the answers we see most often on guide websites.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, in all 50 states. Non-resident day licenses run roughly $10–30. Buy online from the state's fish and wildlife department before you arrive. Guides don't sell licenses on the boat.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Most guides fish through rain, wind, and cold. Lightning and flood conditions cancel a trip; offshore and inshore saltwater guides typically also cancel for sustained winds over 25 mph. If the guide cancels for safety, you should get a full refund or reschedule. If you cancel same-day due to weather, expect to forfeit the deposit.
Can I bring my kids? Do they need a license?
Yes to kids. Minimum age is usually 6–8 for half-day trips, 10+ for full-day, and varies by state for boat-based trips. Ask specifically. The age at which kids need their own license varies a lot: about 30 states (including FL, TX, CA, GA, VA, NY, and most of the East and Midwest) are free under 16. But several Rocky Mountain states require a license earlier — Montana at 12, Wyoming at 14, Idaho/Colorado/New Mexico at 15, and Alaska for non-residents at 16. Always check the state agency before booking.
How far in advance should I book?
For destination fisheries in peak season (Montana June–July, Florida Keys winter tarpon): 3–6 months. For local trips: 2–4 weeks. For last-minute: call the guide directly, don't use an online booking tool.
What's the deposit / refund policy?
Standard is 50% at booking, remainder day-of. Full refund 30+ days out, deposit forfeit inside 14 days, 100% forfeit inside 48 hours. Guide-cancelled trips always refund fully.
What should I wear?
Layers. Synthetic or wool, not cotton. Brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, closed-toe shoes you don't mind getting wet. No cologne or scented products. See our packing list for details.
Do I have to know how to fish?
No. Good guides teach beginners all the time. Tell them upfront that you're new — they'll adjust the setup (simpler rig, easier water) and you'll have a better day.
Catch and release, or can we keep fish?
Depends on the state, the water, and the species. Most trout guides are catch-and-release only. Inshore saltwater and warmwater bass often allow keeping a limit. Ask when booking.
Is lunch included?
Sometimes. About half of the full-day trips we see include lunch; the other half expect you to bring your own. Always ask.
Do I need to tip?
Yes. 15–20% of the trip cost, cash, direct to the guide at the end of the day. See our tipping guide for nuance.
What if I get seasick?
Float trips on rivers: fine for most people. Inshore saltwater: mild motion. Offshore: Bonine (meclizine) and Dramamine are the standard OTC options — follow the package label (typically one hour before travel), skip the greasy breakfast, and stay on deck looking at the horizon. Talk to your doctor about scopolamine patches if you've struggled before.
Can two anglers share one guide?
Yes, and that's the sweet spot. Most drift boats seat two anglers plus the guide at the oars. Three anglers is possible but crowded; four typically requires a second boat.
Still have a question?
Every fishing guide's detail page has a Request Info form. Use it — guides know their own water and their own policies better than we can generalize. Don't be shy; asking questions is how they filter great clients from frustrating ones.
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