Can I Become a Fishing Guide If I Have a Citation on My Record?

November 25, 2009

Question: I have a question regarding the application to become a fishing guide.  I had a hunter trespass citation a long time ago that was honestly unintentional. It was a case of poor mapping and unmarked fence lines. I paid my fine it never went any further. This was many years ago and I have never had any other convictions for any sort of law breaking. Does my single-hunter trespass ticket exclude me from applying for guide status in this state? I am seriously interested in teaching others to care for and respect our outdoor privileges and would love to apply for a guide’s license. But I don’t want to go through the process and pay all the costs only to be denied at the time my application is reviewed. Thank you for your time. (Doug M.)

Answer: Because your citation was 12 years ago, it was your only citation and you took care of the fines, you should not have a problem getting a guide’s license. Applicants are evaluated mostly for recent activity (within five years), or repetitive activity. And for applicants who apply but are denied, any application fees are refunded.