Why Washington State Guides Association Exists
Washington’s sportfishing guides and charter operators need a voice at the state level.
Throughout the state, small regional associations—such as the Olympic Peninsula Guides’ Association and the Gray’s Harbor Guide Association—have done outstanding work in their local areas. However, despite their efforts, Washington had never seen a truly unified, statewide organization speaking on behalf of all professional guides and charters. Considering there are over 500 licensed guides across the state, imagine the influence we could have in Olympia if we spoke with one voice.
Why Everything Changed
In 2017, everything shifted.
When guide license fees increased substantially, it became clear that no one was representing us at the state level. As someone from WDFW put it bluntly: “You didn’t have a seat at the table.” This statement became a turning point. It was the spark that drove us to take action.
Initially, we organized as the Washington Chapter of NWGAA, which allowed us to mobilize quickly. Soon after, we recognized the need to focus exclusively on the issues affecting Washington State guides. Therefore, the Executive Board made the decision to end the WA Chapter and officially form the Washington State Guides Association (WSGA).
United, We Have Real Influence
Today, things are different.
With WSGA in place, our voices are finally being heard in Olympia—and beyond.
As proof, your Executive Board was instrumental in launching the WDFW Guide Advisory Committee in 2019. Currently, five WSGA board members serve on this influential committee, where they represent the interests of guides and charter operators statewide. Through this involvement, we continue to fight for fair regulation, healthy fisheries, and the future of our industry.
Most importantly, we welcome all guides and charter operators—regardless of method or location. Whether you guide with conventional gear, fly fish, run a large vessel, or guide from a kayak, we are all licensed professionals. After all, when one group is affected by new laws or restrictions we had no say in, we all feel the impact.
Be the Change
Now is the time to stand together.
When you join WSGA, you’re not just signing up—you’re stepping forward as a leader in your profession. By joining, you contribute to a stronger, more unified guide community that is respected in policy discussions at the state level.
- Each year, members pay dues by January 30th.
- WSGA will send email reminders, and members have 30 days to renew online to avoid disruption.
- Depending on your level of activity, we offer several membership options to meet your needs.
Why Membership Matters
There are many reasons to join.
When you become a WSGA member, you gain:
- Stronger negotiating power through collective membership numbers
- Direct access to the Executive Board to address local concerns or fishery-specific issues
- Two WSGA decals to display on your boat or vehicle
- Validation as part of the largest guide association in Washington—positioning you as an industry leader
In addition, if you need to be part of a drug testing consortium, your WSGA membership also includes enrollment in the National Association of Charterboat Operators (NACO). We’ll handle the registration for you.
- Annual WSGA membership: $140 (includes NACO membership)
- Drug testing enrollment (via Gulf South Resources): $70 annually
- Once you join, we’ll email you everything you need to complete enrollment
Join Now
So what are you waiting for?
Let’s work together to protect our fisheries, strengthen our businesses, and ensure professional guides and charters have a powerful voice in Washington State.