Fishing Guide and Instructor

Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC; Pennsylvania; Hybrid; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Gear Rentals

Pro Deals and Industry Discounts

Free or Discounted Trips and Programs

Skill Development

Supportive Team Environment

Flexible Scheduling

Meaningful Work

Job summary

Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC is seeking a part-time Fishing Guide to lead family-oriented fishing programs across Pennsylvania. This role offers flexible scheduling and focuses on beginner-friendly experiences, including youth fishing programs and private guided trips.

The ideal candidate will have a Pennsylvania Fishing Guide Permit and strong communication skills to create a welcoming environment for participants. Join a supportive team dedicated to fostering connections to the outdoors!

Qualifications

• Compliance with Pennsylvania ACT 153 clearances.
• Experience leading or assisting fishing programs or guided trips.
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead Kids Introduction to Fishing programs.
• Guide private fishing birthday parties and trips.
• Teach beginner fishing skills and safety.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Experience working with children and families

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Physical ability for outdoor programs

Education

Pennsylvania Fishing Guide Permit

Current First Aid and CPR certification

Valid Pennsylvania Fishing License and Trout Permit

Job description

Location: Various outdoor locations throughout Pennsylvania
Company Base: Delaware County, PA
Reports to: Program Director
Job Type: Seasonal and Part-Time with flexible, program-based scheduling

About Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC

Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC provides outdoor education and guided adventure programs that help people of all ages build confidence, practical skills, and meaningful connections to the outdoors. Our programs include hiking, backpacking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, outdoor skills courses, youth programs, camps, and family adventures. We prioritize safety, inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and welcoming participants who are new to outdoor recreation.

Position Overview

Fishing Guides lead and support a variety of fishing-based programs throughout the season. This position focuses heavily on beginner-friendly and family-oriented experiences, including youth fishing programs, private guided trips, and fishing birthday parties. Guides work collaboratively as part of a team and may support additional outdoor programs depending on experience, certifications, and interest.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys teaching others, creating welcoming outdoor experiences, and helping participants build confidence through fishing and outdoor recreation.

Role Growth and Advancement

Fishing Guides begin with responsibilities appropriate to their experience level. As guides gain familiarity with our programs and demonstrate strong leadership and safety practices, opportunities may expand to include:

• Leading advanced or specialty fishing programs
• Serving as lead staff during large youth events or camps
• Mentoring seasonal instructors or assistant guides
• Assisting with trip planning, logistics, and equipment management
• Contributing to fishing curriculum development and new program ideas

Advancement is flexible and based on individual interests, certifications, experience, and availability.

Key Responsibilities

Program Instruction and Leadership

• Lead and assist with Kids Introduction to Fishing programs
• Guide private fishing birthday parties for children and families
• Lead private guided fishing trips for individuals, families, and small groups
• Teach beginner fishing skills including casting, knot tying, bait selection, fish handling, fishing ethics, and local regulations
• Adapt instruction to varying ages, abilities, and experience levels
• Serve as a positive role model for participants

Safety and Risk Management

• Maintain participant safety as the top priority
• Monitor weather, water, and environmental conditions
• Follow and enforce company safety protocols and Leave No Trace principles
• Ensure compliance with Pennsylvania fishing regulations and licensing requirements

Participant Engagement

• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning environment
• Encourage confidence, curiosity, and environmental stewardship
• Provide clear instruction, demonstrations, and constructive feedback

Program and Team Support

• Assist with program setup, breakdown, and gear management
• Support fellow instructors during programs and camps
• Assist with trip preparation, rosters, and basic logistics as needed

Communication and Professionalism

• Communicate clearly and professionally with participants, families, and staff
• Represent Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC in a positive and professional manner

Qualifications

Required

• Pennsylvania Fishing Guide Permit
• Valid Pennsylvania Fishing License and Trout Permit
• Compliance with Pennsylvania ACT 153 clearances and requirements
• Current First Aid and CPR certification
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience working with children, families, or beginner anglers
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Physical ability to lead active outdoor programs in varied terrain and weather
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license

Preferred

• Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• Experience leading or assisting fishing programs or guided trips
• Knowledge of local waterways and fishing opportunities throughout Pennsylvania
• Experience teaching youth outdoor education programs
• Interest in mentoring, program support, or curriculum development

Scheduling Model

Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC uses a quarterly, assignment-based scheduling model designed to be flexible while setting clear expectations.

• Staff are scheduled on a quarterly basis
• Assignments are sent by text or email with details including date, time, location, and role
• You may accept or decline any assignment with no obligation or penalty
• Once you accept an assignment, it is a firm commitment

This model works well for staff who want flexible, part-time outdoor work while maintaining reliability for accepted assignments.

Benefits and Perks

• Free Gear Rentals: Access Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC equipment for personal use
• Pro Deals and Industry Discounts: Eligible staff may access outdoor industry pro deals
• Free or Discounted Trips and Programs: Join select Hiking Hound Adventures, LLC trips and programs at no cost or a significant discount when space allows
• Skill Development: Build leadership and instructional skills in outdoor education and guiding
• Supportive Team Environment: Work alongside experienced, mission-driven instructors
• Flexible Scheduling: Program-based scheduling that fits a variety of lifestyles
• Meaningful Work: Spend your time outdoors helping people connect with nature through fishing and outdoor recreation

Schedule and Compensation

This position offers flexible scheduling, including weekdays, weekends, and occasional evenings. Hours vary by season and program demand. Compensation is competitive and based on experience, certifications, and responsibilities.

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Resume
• Brief cover letter describing your fishing experience and interest in teaching
• Relevant certifications and permits