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Fishing Guide information

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$41

How much do fishing guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for fishing guide in Chicago, IL is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fishing guide?

Fishing guides are experienced anglers who provide professional guidance and instruction to individuals or groups looking to fish in specific waters. They help clients find the best fishing spots, choose the right equipment and bait, and teach various fishing techniques. Fishing guides often have extensive knowledge of local fish species, weather patterns, and safety protocols, ensuring a successful and enjoyable fishing experience for their clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fishing guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fishing Guide, you need extensive knowledge of local fish species, fishing techniques, boating safety, and typically a relevant license or certification. Familiarity with GPS navigation, fish finders, and safety equipment is also important for guiding successful excursions. Outstanding communication, patience, and customer service skills help create memorable experiences and manage group dynamics. These skills ensure both client safety and satisfaction while maximizing opportunities for successful fishing trips.

What are some common challenges fishing guides face when leading groups on fishing excursions?

Fishing Guides often navigate unpredictable weather, varying water conditions, and the differing skill levels of guests. Adapting to these challenges while ensuring safety and delivering a positive client experience is key. Guides must also manage equipment, offer instruction, and stay knowledgeable about local regulations and fish behaviors. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential to address customer needs and changing environmental factors during each trip.

What is the difference between Fishing Guide vs Boat Captain?

AspectFishing GuideBoat Captain
CertificationsFishing licenses, safety certificationsCaptain's license, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFreshwater or saltwater fishing trips, outdoor settingsOperating boats, overseeing crew, navigation
Employer & IndustryTourism, outdoor recreation, fishing chartersMarinas, commercial fishing, passenger transport
Search & Comparison IntentFishing trips, outdoor guides, fishing servicesBoat operation, maritime jobs, vessel management

While both Fishing Guides and Boat Captains work on water and require safety certifications, Fishing Guides focus on leading fishing trips and providing fishing expertise. Boat Captains operate and navigate vessels, often overseeing crew and ensuring safety during various water activities. The roles overlap in certifications and outdoor work environments but differ in responsibilities and industry focus.

How hard is it to become a fishing guide?

Becoming a fishing guide requires knowledge of local fishing spots, strong customer service skills, and often a fishing license or certification. Gaining experience on the water and understanding safety procedures are also important steps in the process.

How much money do fishing guides make?

Fishing guides typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually, with income varying based on experience, location, and the number of clients served. Many guides supplement their income through tips and may work seasonally or part-time, often requiring knowledge of local waters and good customer service skills.

What do you need to be a fishing guide?

To become a fishing guide, you typically need fishing experience, knowledge of local waters, and relevant certifications such as first aid or CPR. Many guides also obtain a professional license or permit depending on regional regulations and should have good customer service skills and familiarity with fishing equipment and techniques.
More about Fishing Guide jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Fishing Guide jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Fishing Guide jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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For Fishing Guide jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Fishing Guide jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Fishing Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fishing Guide job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,255 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Bass Fishing Sponsor - West

Glenbard Township High School District 87

Glen Ellyn, IL • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Activities/Activity/Club Sponsor
Date Posted:
3/3/2026
Location:
Glenbard West
Date Available:
26-27
Position
Bass Fishing Sponsor
Building
Glenbard West
Schedule B Group
Group 7
Job ID
#10606
School Year
2026-2027
Closing Date
3/16/26 - or until filled
Compensation and Benefits
  • AFSCME positions, please see the AFSCME Contract
  • All other individuals see the Extracurricular Schedule.
  • TRS/IMRF benefits may apply.

Position Summary
  • Supervises all activities of the student organization.

Reports To
  • Assistant Principal for Student Services, Assistant Activity Director of the building assigned.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Supervise all elections and certify the results to the Assistant Principal for Student Services (APSS).
  • Approve all candidates for each club office before elections. Students who have significant
  • disciplinary records are not eligible to hold club office.
  • Train officers and members in the handling of their offices and guide these students in the operation of the club.
  • Submit the constitution or charter, if warranted, of an organization when first organized to the APSS.
  • Approve all club announcements, meeting dates, club activities, flyers, t-shirts, etc.
  • Be present at every meeting, social affair, and fund-raising activity held during the school year.
  • Make an annual inventory of equipment and supplies.
  • Complete forms and reports as directed in the Student Activities Handbook.
  • Consult with the APSS when necessary for the smooth functioning of the club or activity.
  • Be present at Activity Night and if necessary, Booster Award Night to represent your club/activity.
  • Ensure representation at each Presidents Council Meeting.
  • Follow all other guidelines presented in the Student Activity and Convenience Funds Handbook
  • Coordinate with APSS and/or Activity Director to ensure access to accounts in Skyward

Knowledge and Skills
  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret documents such as correspondence, surveys and electronic media.
  • Ability to write professional communications.
  • Ability to present information effectively and to respond to questions from individuals and groups
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and community members
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in written form
  • Ability to complete mathematical operations and apply concepts of basic mathematics
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists
  • Ability to maintain current job skills as directed, especially in technology-related activities
  • Ability to perform essential duties with an awareness of school district requirements and School Board policies

Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • The physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, operate duplicating machines and computer equipment; reach with hands and arms; and will frequently repeat actions with the same hand, arm, or finger motion such as when typing.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. In addition, the ability to withstand long-term use of video display terminals (VDT) is required.
  • The employee may occasionally lift up to 30 pounds such as reference books.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
  • The pace of work tasks would be considered as fast.
  • Work is usually conducted at one job site, however, on occasion, this employee will be required to attend meetings, conferences, or workshops and events at other sites as assigned.

Direct Questions To
Mr. Peter Baker, Assistant Principal for Student Services
Glenbard West High School
670 Crescent Blvd.
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
(630) 469-8600
Interested parties should fill out the online application at District 87 - Employment
The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work to be performed by (an) individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities related to the position. This job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity and School Board Policy and procedures. Essential and marginal job functions are subject to modification.
The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties may be assigned.
Glenbard Township High School District 87 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy and practice of District 87 to decide all matters relating to employment solely on the basis of the applicant's ability to perform the essential functions of the position. It shall be the policy of Glenbard Township High School District 87 to hire all staff without discrimination because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, physical or mental handicap unrelated to ability, veteran, military status or an unfavorable discharge from service, or citizenship status provided the individual is authorized to work in the United States. Glenbard Township High School District 87 is committed to a workplace free of unlawful discrimination, harassment or retaliation as mandated under Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, the Age Discrimination Act, the Boy Scouts Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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