Gratuities for Guides!
Did you know that it is customary to tip your hunting and fishing guides?
Hunting and fishing guides provide a valuable service to their clients by offering guided trips and access to prime hunting and fishing locations, as well as the prep-work to ensure a quality trip.
These guides work hard to ensure that their clients have a successful and enjoyable experience, and it is customary to show appreciation for their efforts by leaving a gratuity!
Gratuities are a way to show appreciation for exceptional service. Tips are a common practice in the hunting and fishing industry. While not required, leaving a gratuity is a way to show your appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your guide. Industry standard is 10 to 20% for a happy customer!
When deciding on the amount of your gratuity, there are several factors to consider. The first is the level of service provided by your guide. If your guide went above and beyond to ensure that you had a successful trip, then a larger gratuity may be appropriate. On the other hand, if your guide provided adequate service but did not go above and beyond, then a smaller gratuity may be appropriate.
Another factor to consider is the length of your trip. If you were on a multi-day trip, then a larger gratuity may be appropriate to show your appreciation for the extended service provided by your guide. Additionally, if your guide provided additional services such as cleaning and packaging your catch or providing transportation to and from the hunting or fishing location, then a larger gratuity may be appropriate.
It is important to remember that gratuities are not mandatory and should be given based on the level of service provided by your guide! If you feel that your guide did not provide adequate service, then it is acceptable to not leave a gratuity. However, remember that the trip is more than what you kill/catch! Guides can’t control nature!
When leaving a gratuity, it is best to do so in cash and to give it directly to your guide. This ensures that your guide receives the full amount of the gratuity and that it is not split among other staff members that did not serve you directly!
In conclusion, leaving a gratuity for your hunting or fishing guide is a way to show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication, for putting you on the birds, setting the spread, baiting the hook, working the fields for crop so the quality big game can grow, and everything in between to ensure an amazing trip. When deciding on the amount of your gratuity, consider the level of service provided, the length of your trip, and any additional services provided by your guide and the outfitter. Remember that gratuities are not mandatory and should be given based on the level of service provided, and prep-work done before your trip!