On my recent confirmation letter from my Fly shop regarding my upcoming guided trout trip. It said that tipping the guide was Customary. My question is what is the right amount to tip a guide? (My guide also happens to be the owner of the fly shop) its for a half day trip at 185.00. any thoughts? Thanks !

iMO 15- 20 percent will do. It all depends upon how hard the guide works regardless of fish count.

Les

Thanks Les.. Hopefully there WILL be a lot of fish caught!

I dont think it has anything to do with catching fish, but how hard he works for you!! He cant control the fish and thier eating habits......but he can sure try his hardest to get you fish and answer all your questions!!! Like said...15-20% is good, but base it on realistic measures....put yourself in his shoes!!!

It's a widely claimed topic. I would say to stick with the norm 10-15%.

Thanks guys , Of course catching alot of fish would be great. But I will be realistic and base my tip on the overall experience. It will be fun ! I cant wait.. Little nervous about being able to cast where he wants me to. I am going to casting lessons with my new rod.

I think 20% is a good place to start. These guides have more overhead than some people think. Leaders, tippets, flies, other tackle. If you like you guide and he makes a good effort for you, be as generous as you think you can.

I understand this is already established procedure, but I've always thought you don't tip the proprietor of a business. If you don't like the service, don't come back. They set the price based on their need.

The whole idea of an expected tip just seems stupid to me. It's either part of price, or extra for a job well done. It can't be expected.

With all that said. I tip and try to tip well, but I don't like it I usually just do 20% when I don't know what's normal. Seems people are usually pretty happy with that.

I would view it just as tipping a server at a restaurant or bellman at hotel. If they just do the bare minimum... that is one thing, but if they are really working it, that is another.

I have had guides ask for a tip. I don't use them again.

I have been with guides that want to fish as much as you, no tip. You have turned into fishing buddies. Then there are guides who only fish to show you technique/presentation and are focused on you/group. Thats a tip. I think 20% is good. IMO

That would be a major turn off for me, too.

I want to know where your going fishing... $158 for a 1/2 day is a steal. I want to go there... Are you wading or on a boat.? I never expect a tip, but always appreciate one. LOL

Tip guides, not cows

No tips expected, but appreciated. It's kind of like a compliment on what I provided. I don't typically tip the owners though ... maybe that should apply to owners with employees ... maybe I should tip sole proprietor (single person) owners.

I respectfully disagree. Tip good guides well and tip cows when snipe hunting....