The Washington State Guides Association (WSGA) exists to unite and represent professional sport fishing guides and charter operators across Washington State. Our Mission & Vision guide everything we do. Together, they define how we serve our members, anglers, and fisheries while protecting opportunity for future generations.
First and foremost, WSGA supports both full-time and part-time guides. Equally important, we welcome recreational anglers who care deeply about access and sustainability. Because when anglers thrive, our industry thrives too. Even maintaining an active membership strengthens our collective voice statewide.
Meanwhile, the WSGA Executive Board remains highly engaged. We meet monthly and maintain open, consistent communication with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). Washington presents unique regulatory and conservation challenges. Although progress can take time, we stay committed. Therefore, we work persistently to address complex issues that affect guides, charter operators, and anglers alike.
Ultimately, we believe collaboration creates opportunity. As a result, we invite you to work alongside us as we pursue better fisheries and broader access for everyone.
Our Mission & Vision guide everything we do
Our Mission
The Mission & Vision of WSGA begin with advocacy. WSGA serves as the unified voice of Washington’s sport fishing guide and charter industry. Guides and charter operators provide critical public access to shared natural resources. Through professionalism and integrity, we partner with WDFW to protect, improve, and sustain healthy sport fisheries.
At the same time, we recognize the importance of conservation. We support regulations that promote stewardship and long-term sustainability. However, we also oppose policies that unnecessarily restrict access or eliminate livelihoods. Therefore, we strive for balance today and protection for tomorrow.
Our Vision
Our vision focuses on cooperation and stability. We seek strong working relationships with WDFW, legislators, and fellow anglers. By doing so, we help ensure a vibrant guide and charter industry supported by abundant fish populations. Not only do we think about today, but we also plan for the future.
Because representation matters, WSGA advocates at the state level. We ensure professional guides and charter operators have a seat at the table when decisions shape our fisheries.
What We Support
We support fisheries management that balances conservation with opportunity. Specifically, we advocate for maximizing angler trips and statewide economic benefits. Additionally, we support increased hatchery production where science allows. While ESA constraints exist, we continue to push for more fish—both hatchery and wild.
Furthermore, we recognize ecosystem balance as essential. Predator populations, including pinnipeds, have increased dramatically. Therefore, we support responsible state and federal management tools to restore balance. We also support mark-selective fisheries to increase opportunity while managing pHOS levels responsibly.
Our Core Values
- Professionalism: We maintain the highest standards in every interaction.
- Integrity: We act with honesty and accountability.
- Passion: Fishing is our livelihood and our purpose.
- Anglers: Anglers remain the heart of sport fishing.
Finally, while many organizations share similar goals, WSGA speaks independently. When issues matter deeply, we issue stand-alone positions that reflect our members’ unified voice.