what does it take to become a guide

[wildmeat]

have always pondered the thought of becoming a guide. I always have pretty good success hunting for myself... i grew up in a family where everyone hunts including my mother and 70 year old grandmother who were both taught by my departed grandfather... the antlers i have from his harvests prove he was quite the hunter but what im wondering is what do you need to do to become a guide here in alberta?

[sheepguide]

Its basically a joke to obtain a guides licence anywhere. All you need is for an outfitter to recomend you and that you work for them and bingo guides licence is obtained!!! Used to have to write a test when I got mine 20yrs ago in Alberta here but since then the outfitter just gives it to you. It far from makes most guys "Guides" but it does licence them to do so!!

[sporthunting]

Wow I didn't know it was that easy seem's anybody can get a license these day's for just about anything.

[wildmeat]

crazy i didnt know it was that easy... i thought you had to know stuff like caping and ferriering horses... im guessing in this case there are only a handful of reputible guides around

[sheepguide]

Does anyone know if they can renew their own guides licence or if the outfitter must every year. I renew mine but have so since I was 18 and also wrote the test to get it so not sure if that makes a difference or not?

[sheepguide]

I just know at one time they were going to change so every outfitter you worked for had to sponsor you(original sponsor outfitters didnt want their name on what happened at other outfits) and that renewals of them wouldnt be issued so wasnt sure if that ever took place. I renew every year but havent used mine since 1999 for Saddle Mtn Outfitters. Doubt ill ever use my Alberta one again but alway keep it just in case.