What Bass Pro Shops Fishing Guides Are

Bass Pro Shops operates a network of fishing guides through its retail locations and partnerships, offering guided fishing trips for anglers of different skill levels. These are not guides employed directly by Bass Pro Shops corporate — instead, the company connects customers with independent fishing guides who operate in waters near Bass Pro Shops locations. The guide typically brings their own boat, knows the local water, and handles the day-to-day logistics of the trip.

When you book through Bass Pro Shops, you are paying for access to their guide network and their coordination. The guide's fee, boat rental, and what is included (tackle, bait, lunch) vary by location and guide. Bass Pro Shops acts as the middleman: you contact them, they match you with a guide in your area, and the guide takes it from there.

Key Takeaways

  • Bass Pro Shops guides are independent contractors, not Bass Pro employees, so the experience and boat quality depend on which guide you are matched with.
  • You book through your local Bass Pro Shops location or their website, and the shop coordinates the introduction and handles payment processing.
  • Guide fees, what is included (tackle, bait, lunch), and trip length vary by guide and location — ask what you need to bring and what is provided before you commit.
  • Most guides require a deposit to hold your date, and cancellation policies differ by guide, so read the terms before you pay.
  • You will receive the guide's contact information after booking so you can confirm details, ask questions, and arrange pickup location and time.

How to Book a Bass Pro Shops Fishing Guide

Start by visiting the Bass Pro Shops website or calling your nearest location. Look for their "Fishing Guides" or "Charter Services" section — the exact name varies by store. You will need to tell them your location, the type of fish you want to target, how many people are in your group, and your preferred dates.

Bass Pro Shops will show you available guides in your area and their rates. Each guide listing typically includes their experience level, the waters they fish, what species they specialize in, and what is included in their fee. Once you choose a guide, you will pay a deposit through Bass Pro Shops to hold the date. The remaining balance is usually due before the trip or on the day of the trip — confirm this with the guide after you receive their contact information.

After booking, Bass Pro Shops will send you the guide's phone number and email. Contact them directly to confirm the pickup time, location, and what you should bring. This is also when you can ask about weather contingencies, what happens if the trip is cancelled, and any special requests.

What Is Typically Included in a Guide Trip

Most Bass Pro Shops guides include the boat, fuel, and basic tackle in their fee. Many also provide bait and lunch. However, this varies significantly by guide and location. Some guides provide everything except your personal items; others ask you to bring your own rod and reel or to purchase bait separately.

Before you book, ask the guide directly: Do I need to bring my own rod? Is bait included, or do I buy it? What about lunch — is it provided or should I bring food? Are life jackets provided? What time should I arrive, and where do we meet? These details matter for your budget and your comfort on the water.

Most guides will also ask about your experience level so they can match you with appropriate water and techniques. If you have never fished before, say so — a good guide will adjust their approach and teach you as you go.

Costs and What Affects the Price

Guide fees through Bass Pro Shops typically range based on trip length (half-day or full-day), the number of people, the type of water (lake, river, saltwater), and the guide's experience. A half-day trip is usually shorter and less expensive than a full-day trip. Group size matters too — a guide for two people costs less per person than a guide for one, but the total fee is higher.

Location affects price significantly. Guides in popular fishing areas or near major Bass Pro Shops locations may charge more than guides in less-trafficked regions. Saltwater guides typically cost more than freshwater guides because fuel and boat maintenance are higher.

Ask about what is included in the quoted price so you know whether you are paying extra for bait, tackle rental, or lunch. Some guides charge a flat fee; others charge per person. Confirm the total cost and what the deposit covers before you commit.

Cancellation Policies and What Happens If Weather Turns Bad

Cancellation policies vary by guide. Most require that you cancel at least 48 hours in advance to receive a refund of your deposit. If you cancel closer to the trip date, you may lose your deposit or have it applied to a future date. Read the guide's cancellation terms when you book — Bass Pro Shops should provide this information, or the guide will when you contact them.

If the guide cancels due to weather or mechanical issues, you should receive a full refund or the option to reschedule. If weather is borderline, the guide will usually call you the night before or morning of the trip to discuss whether to proceed. Rough water, lightning, or extreme heat may make the trip unsafe, and a responsible guide will postpone rather than risk your safety.

Ask the guide what their weather policy is: At what wind speed or wave height do they cancel? Do you get a refund or a rain check? What counts as a cancellation reason on your end versus theirs? Having this conversation upfront prevents confusion later.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Most guides will tell you what to bring when you contact them, but here are the basics: sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, water, and a towel. Wear clothes you do not mind getting wet and bring a change if the trip is long. Non-slip shoes or water shoes are safer than sneakers on a wet boat deck.

If the guide asks you to bring your own rod and reel, make sure it is in working order before the trip. If you are unsure whether your equipment is suitable, ask the guide — they may have a spare or recommend you rent or borrow something else.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your deposit receipt or confirmation email. If you have any physical limitations or medical conditions the guide should know about, mention them when you arrive. A good guide wants to know if you have a bad back, are prone to seasickness, or have any other concern that affects how they run the trip.

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Beyond the basics (cost, what is included, cancellation policy), ask these questions to avoid surprises:

  • How many years has the guide been fishing this water? Experience matters, especially if you are targeting a specific species or fishing a new area.
  • What is the success rate? Guides often track how many fish are caught per trip. This gives you a realistic picture of what to expect.
  • Will I be fishing alone with the guide, or will there be other customers on the boat? Some guides run group trips; others do private charters. Know which you are paying for.
  • What happens if I get seasick or need to cut the trip short? A guide should have a plan and not charge you the full fee if you genuinely cannot continue.
  • Do you have liability insurance? A professional guide carries insurance in case of injury or damage. This is a sign of a legitimate operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a Bass Pro Shops fishing guide if I have never fished before?

Yes. Tell Bass Pro Shops and the guide that you are a beginner when you book. A good guide will teach you how to hold the rod, cast, set the hook, and reel in. They will adjust the difficulty of the water and techniques to match your skill level. Beginners often have a great time because guides expect to teach and enjoy working with new anglers.

What if the guide does not show up or cancels the morning of the trip?

Contact Bass Pro Shops when ready. They should help you reschedule with another guide or process a refund. This is rare, but it is why you book through Bass Pro Shops rather than directly with a guide — the shop is your recourse if something goes wrong. Keep your confirmation email and receipt.

Do I need a fishing license to go on a guided trip?

Yes, in most states. You are still fishing, so you need a valid license for that state and water type (freshwater or saltwater). Some guides include the cost of a temporary license in their fee, but ask before you book. Bass Pro Shops locations sell licenses, so you can get one before your trip if you do not have one.

What if I want to fish with a specific guide I have heard good things about?

Ask Bass Pro Shops if you can request a particular guide by name. They may be able to match you, or they may tell you the guide is booked. If your preferred guide is unavailable, ask for a recommendation from someone with similar experience and style. Bass Pro Shops staff can often point you toward guides with strong track records.

Can I bring my own tackle and equipment on the guide trip?

Usually yes, but ask the guide first. Some guides prefer to use their own tackle so they know it is in good condition and they can teach you their techniques. Others are fine with you bringing your own. If you have a favorite rod or lure, mention it when you contact the guide and ask if it is okay to use.