River Fishing Guide - Whitewater Guide -> Fishing Guide
About The Position
AVA is hiring Whitewater Raft Guides and Fishing Guides for the summer season in Colorado, typically May through September 2026. This is a dual-role position: guides begin the season with raft-guide training and work on the river as raft guides while receiving regular fly-fishing training throughout the summer. As skills develop, guides assist experienced fly fishermen on walk-and-wade outings and river-float trips and may begin working as fishing guides. The role requires onsite work in Colorado; the company offers options for employee housing. No prior guiding experience is required, but current CPR and First Aid certifications are required. AVA offers CPR/First Aid courses for applicants who need current certifications. Work is generally two to three trips per day, with shifts typically lasting about nine hours. The posting lists part-time work as under about 30 hours weekly and full-time work as about 40 hours weekly, with holiday work on the Fourth of July. Starting pay for first-year rookie guides is $15.16 per hour plus tips, which commonly add an average of $10–$20 per hour. Guides with additional experience may be eligible for further compensation.
Requirements
- Current CPR and First Aid certifications.
- Ability to complete raft-guide training at the start of the season.
- Physical capability to perform the work.
- Passion for the outdoors.
- Fishing experience.
- Strong teamwork skills.
- Emphasis on customer care.
- Ability to work onsite in Colorado.
- Availability for work on holidays, including the Fourth of July.
Nice To Haves
- Additional training beyond CPR and First Aid.
- Prior guiding experience, which may qualify guides for further compensation.
Responsibilities
- Safely navigate commercial rafts down the river while managing guests and delivering a positive guest experience.
- Provide interpretive information to guests and perform swiftwater rescue techniques when needed.
- Assist with fishing operations, including walk-and-wade outings and fishing float trips.
- Teach guests to fish and ensure they follow state fishing regulations.
- Maintain equipment, gear, and the work area.
- Maintain situational awareness and readiness to assist with river-rescue maneuvers.
- Deliver high-quality guest service and promote awareness and understanding of the surrounding wilderness.
Benefits
- Gear discounts through outdoor-industry brands, including The North Face, Yeti, and Patagonia.
- Employee housing options are available for the summer.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
No Education Listed
