Our Guide Instructors have over 40 years of combined experience guiding fly fishing and whitewater trips. Each of our instructors has their own unique method of guiding. Their insights will help you to develop your own approach and techniques. Below are some quick bio’s on our main instructors, they and other talented RIGS guides will teach you what it takes to be a float fishing guide!
An outline of what you will learn in this course:
Guide Responsibilities:
- Client Assessment & Risk – identifying client needs, wants physical condition and limitations. Ensuring a high level of safety, comfort, and professionalism.
- Vehicle Operation and Safety – including ideal guide vehicles, driving with a trailer, backing up the trailer, vehicle organization, cleanliness and understanding laws.
- Proper fitting, wearing and use of Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs)
- Minimizing Outdoor Recreation Resource Impacts
Understanding Your Environment:
- Reading the Water – river currents, eddies, and waves.
- Types and Causes of River Hazards
- Scouting and Running Rapids
- River rescue and emergency services
Boating & Float Fishing Techniques:
- Rigging and Maneuvering the Vessel
- Sculling & Rowing Quietly
- Using the boat to help the client land a fish and positioning the boat in the best place for the client
- Navigating the water to avoid floating over the fish
- Float fishing etiquette
Equipment:
- Types of Rafts and Drift Boats – our course covers drift boats and inflatables.
- River Gear – rigging and overnight camp considerations.