Guide Trip Planning
MY GUIDE BOAT - So you know what to look for at the meeting site, my guide boat is a 2005 white and burgundy Triton with a 225 Pro XS Mercury Motor. I pull it with a white Ford Expedition.
WHAT I PROVIDE- I provide everything needed for a full day trip on the water, including tackle, rods, reels, snack food and drinks. There are stores on the water if needed. You may choose to bring rods/reels you are comfortable with, and some tackle of your own. I carry all the current baits so there's no need to bring much in the way of tackle. I do not charge extra for the use of my gear. You should plan to bring rain gear, even if rain is not predicted, and bring plenty of clothing if the weather is cool or cold.
FISHING LICENSELicenses are available at the launch sites, by phone or on-line. Click Here for Fishing License information. We are checked on the water from time to time by both wardens and the marine police. Licenses are the responsibility of the customer. At this time, guides are not allowed to sell licenses, or allow people to fish under a single guide license.
OTHER ITEMS - I provide life vests, and all legally required equipment on board. If you have special needs, special dietary requirements, or special medical conditions, let me know and we'll work out the details to make sure we have what we need for the trip.
WHERE TO MEET - Meeting place will be specified with respect to which lake, weather and which species of fish we are after. It is important to contact me two or three days prior to the trip in order to finalize any plans, and discuss any weather or river related changes for the trip. Usually trips begin at safe light depending on weather. Exchanging cell phone numbers is a good idea in the event something happens during travel to a meeting place. Normally I give directions to the launch site and we begin and end at that location. My cell phone is 256-683-7934. We do have locations with limited cell phone service on our waterways.
SEVERE WEATHER – Lightning or severe winds and rain can sometimes be a problem. If possible, I wait out passing severe weather in the bait shop or other shelter. If the severe weather is prolonged, other arrangements must be made, rescheduling, etc. Safety is a priority.
QUESTIONS AND CONTINUING SERVICE - Be sure to ask any questions you may have before the trip, and I am happy to answer any questions about fishing during the trip. I am happy to provide updates for clients should you choose to return. I provide fishing information via email or over the phone, and will be happy to mark a map for you during the trip if you have one. Maps are available at shops around the lake.
FOLLOW BOATS - I am happy to provide service, location and information for follow boats in a group. For insurance reasons, I do charge $50.00 per boat. Follow boats must provide their own equipment and food. I am happy to mark the maps and provide instruction for clients on follow boats.
PAYMENT - I accept cash or check after the trip is finished. Checks should be made out to Troy Jens. A $50.00 deposit is requested – Deposit checks can be made out to and sent to Troy Jens – 400 Hollow Drive – Spruce Pine, AL 35585.