Inshore fishing guide with a small boat

Vacationers, local anglers wanting to learn a new spot, families, and small groups or corporate outings.

A flat fee per half-day or full-day trip for up to a set number of anglers, plus tips. Some guides add extras like lunch or fish cleaning.

• Safe boat handling
• Knowing local waters, species and seasons
• Patient, friendly customer service

• A Coast Guard captain's license (often called a six-pack license) is generally needed to take paying passengers, so check the current sea time, medical and drug test requirements
• Check your state for guide or charter licenses and any fishing permits you or clients need
• General liability and marine insurance made for charter use, since a standard boat policy may not cover paying guests
• Weather, seasons and fuel costs make income uneven, so plan for slow months
• Boat maintenance, trailer upkeep and safety gear are ongoing costs

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the boat and trailer you use, tackle, safety gear and insurance. These are estimates, so check your own numbers before buying or upgrading a boat.

Check current Coast Guard captain's license requirements, often called a six-pack license, including sea time, medical and drug tests. Also check your state for guide or charter licenses, fishing permits, and insurance that covers paying passengers.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many trips you book and your prices. Weather, seasons and fuel costs make income uneven, so plan for slow months and ongoing boat upkeep.