Identification
In general, a fishing guide is a person who offers services to take and accompany passengers in fishing activities. Guides also share knowledge, expertise and provide fishing techniques instruction, according to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Washington state law requires all guides who accept compensation for these services to obtain a license.
Types
Different types of fishing guide licenses are available in Washington. You can obtain a fishing guide license as a salmon charter guide, non-salmon charter guide, food fish guide or game fish guide.
Age
All applicants for fishing guide licenses must be at least 16 years of age.
Geography
You may need additional licenses depending on the fishing grounds you intend to guide. All fishing guides on whitewater rivers of Washington must obtain a whitewater river outfitter license. Fishing guides on Rufus Woods Lake must have a Department of the Army license. Similarly, those who intend to guide on federally navigable waters must obtain a U.S. Coast Guard license.
Cost
The cost for a food fish license is $150 for residents and $730 for nonresidents. A game fish license costs $180 for residents and $600 for nonresidents. A non-salmon charter license is $260 for residents and $410 for nonresidents. Prices are based on 2010 rates. Washington salmon charter licenses are not available as of 2010, due to a licensing moratorium.
Article Written By Rona Aquino
Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.
