Fishing Guides: We all Started Somewhere

In the world of guiding, there’s a quiet current that runs through the community—one of pride, skill, stories, and yes, ego too. It’s a job that demands a lot. Early mornings. Long days. High expectations. And a never-ending pursuit of fish. But above all, guiding is a people’s job. And the truth is, the people aren’t just in your boat. They’re the fishing guide rowing next to you. The guy double parked at the Wolf Creek Bridge ahead of you. They’re young and fresh, or they’re seasoned and sun-leathered. And every single one of them started somewhere and is trying to earn a living doing what they love.

The Seasoned Fishing Guides

You’ve put in your time.  You’ve got stories—some true, some better when stretched. You’ve watched the river change shape over seasons, watched the new guy roll in and burn out, and you’ve probably muttered “negative comments” more times than you can count.

But here’s the thing: somewhere back there, you were the new kid. You missed the take out. You flailed on the sticks. You asked too many questions (or not enough). Someone gave you a shove in the right direction—or maybe they didn’t, and you had to learn the hard way. Learn from that. Help the new guy, be kind.

We all started Somewhere

Let’s set something straight: we all started somewhere. Some started with a trust fund. We all know that guy. New truck, new boat and top of the line gear. Others came up as fly shop rats, living on someone’s floor in Craig. But nobody—and I mean nobody—showed up on their first day knowing how to effectively row for anglers, read clients, or manage a hungover bachelorette party. That kind of wisdom only comes from time on the water guiding clients.

The New Fly Fishing Guide

You’re fired up. You’ve been watching the veteran fishing guides, hoping to learn. You’re working hard, maybe a little too hard. You’re figuring it out as you go—how to help the new fly rod caster, how to calm the anxious client, how to back your trailer up without everyone at the ramp watching you like it’s a rodeo. You might feel like you’re on your own out there, but you’re not. There’s a tribe around you. At least there should be. Watch and listen. Be humble. Work hard. Show up early.  And don’t forget to say thanks when someone shows you a little grace.

Meet in the Middle and be Kind

At the end of the day, we all are all fishing guides and started somewhere. We have more in common than we think. We love rivers. We love our public land, We love fish. We love the feeling when it all comes together and a client turns around grinning with a big brown trout in the net. That’s the magic, right there. And that magic doesn’t care how long you’ve been at this.

So let’s try a little more of this:

• A wave or a nod at the ramp
• High fives, fist bumps and shaka’s
• Less muttering, more mentoring
• If you see someone you don’t know, Introduce yourself
• If someone’s struggling, lend a hand
• BE KIND and spread stoke !
  

Because when we respect each other, we protect the culture of guiding. We make it better for the next generation. And honestly? It’s just trout fishing. Let’s not make it heavier than it needs to be.

Tight lines,
From a guide who’s still learning