Fishing with a guide is an excellent way to enjoy the Alabama Bass Trail. For experienced anglers, guides can offer valuable introductions to a new lake or a new fishing method. For novices, the aid of a professional can mean the difference between enjoying a day on the lake and finding your passion for fishing.

Those fishing Alabama’s waters are lucky to have plenty of experienced guides available with knowledge of each of our 13 lakes. Deciding which guide is right for you shouldn’t be difficult, and a little advance planning will make your day on the water a boat load of fun. And of course, the fertile waters of the Alabama Bass Trail will make it productive.

The first decision is all yours. What are your goals for the trip? Do you have a bucket list of species you’re after? Is it variety you’re looking for? Are you going for fun or for bragging rights? After you’ve decided on your goals, here are some suggested questions and considerations when you’re considering prospective guides.

  1. How familiar is the guide with the lake you’ll fish? Does he fish full time and how long has he been at it?
  2. What type and size boat will you be on and how many people can fish comfortably?
  3. If you’re bringing a young angler, ask about age limits and safety for youngsters.
  4. Does the guide provide all the gear you’ll need? If you’ve got your go-to tools of the trade, should you bring them along? And don’t forget to ask about drinks and snacks.
  5. Make sure you’re aware of all the costs involved and don’t forget, tipping is customary for great service.
  6. Don’t let the need for a last-minute cancellation catch you by surprise. Make sure to learn the policy in advance.

Extending that conversation on the front end can go a long way to ensuring you and the guide have compatible goals and expectations. Next thing you know, you’ll be going home with your very own fish tales and lasting memories from the Alabama Bass Trail.