Many people have a passion for certain recreational activities. Many enjoy hobbies that make money — fishing and hunting guide being one of those hobbies. If fishing and hunting have made your life what it is today, then share the knowledge that you have with others. Experience the benefits of guiding and teaching others to return to the basics.
The role of the fishing and hunting guide is to personally take customers to a specific water source to fish for trout, bass, or steelheads or to the field to hunt for deer, rabbit, doves, squirrels, or any other game that is in season. Skills in first aid and CPR are important to know in case of emergencies. The guide may also show the customer how to process any animal harvested or where to mount their trophy catch.
Although the guide-to-be may feel that he or she has all the knowledge necessary, many states require fishing and hunting guide course certification as well as the appropriate fishing and hunting licenses even if the guide will not be hunting or fishing. There are many schools that teach short courses on horsemanship, trail riding, outdoor survival and photography, cooking, and use of a compass, map, or GPS. The instructors will even guide you on what is needed to start your own guide business. To make the new business legal, register the new company name with the government and obtain a tax identification number. Liability and comprehensive insurance is needed to cover possessions, equipment, and any accidents that may occur. To make the public aware of the new business, business cards and flyers can be posted at various fishing and hunting stores. Advertising can be placed in the local newspaper. Once clients start calling and the business gets busy, keeping a list of clients and contacting them periodically will ensure repeat business.
For fishing excursions, the guide needs to have on hand a first aid kit, insect spray, rain coat and hat, tool kit, toilet paper, and extra water and snacks for the guests. Bringing extra fishing poles, bait, lures, nets, and containers for any fish caught are also necessary. If the group plans to go offshore, a boat with propeller and life jackets is required. For hunting expeditions, the same accessories are required. Instead of fishing equipment, the group must wear the appropriate camouflage clothing and utilize the proper hunting equipment such as bows and arrows or guns and shells.
It is important for the fishing and hunting guide to have a pleasant personality and enjoy being with all types of people. Customers are not always seasoned fishermen and hunters. Sometimes they are amateurs and new to the sport and need someone to show them the ropes. That is when the guide needs to practice patience and take the time to explain everything being said and done.
Of all the hobbies that make money–fishing and hunting guide is the perfect choice for fishermen and hunters to share their experience with others and see it through someone else’s eyes.
Comments on this entry are closed.