Weekend surf coaching on lakes and river waves

Local beginners and keen amateurs, friends' groups, corporate team events and people who already paddle or snowboard and want a new sport.

A fee per person per session, with private coaching at a higher rate. You can add clinic days, gear hire and gift vouchers.

• Solid surfing ability in local conditions
• Clear, patient coaching
• Water safety and rescue basics
• Social media and local marketing

• Permission to run paid lessons on public land or at managed river sites, so check with the municipality and land manager
• Commercial general liability insurance that covers water sports instruction, plus waivers
• Cold water, ice, storms and strong currents, with a short season in many places
• Surf conditions on lakes and rivers can be unreliable, so have a refund or rebooking policy
• A home-based business licence may be needed for admin from home, so check your municipality

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $10,000, depending on how many boards and wetsuits you buy, your insurance and your transport. Treat this as an estimate and start small if you prefer.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,000, depending on conditions, season length and bookings. It is an estimate, and since lake and river surf can be unreliable, have a refund or rebooking policy.

Things to check: permission to run paid lessons on public land or managed river sites, commercial general liability cover for water sports instruction plus waivers, and whether a home-based business licence applies to your admin work.