Join the Gulf Coast Land-Based Fishing Guide Association
ESSENTIAL RESOURCES FOR GULF COAST GUIDES
K&K Insurance (Outfitters & Guides Program)
Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification (Florida Sea Grant Certification Program)
Gulf Islands National Seashore (Commercial Use Authorization - CUA)
Website: www.kandkinsurance.com
Phone: 1-800-637-4757
Additional Info: $1,100/year (must be paid in full)
✔️ Accepted by Gulf Islands National Seashore (GUIS)
✔️ List The United States of America as Additionally Insured
✔️ 1099 contractors running trips for you may be added
Gulf Islands National Seashore (Commercial Use Authorization - CUA)
Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification (Florida Sea Grant Certification Program)
Gulf Islands National Seashore (Commercial Use Authorization - CUA)
Contact: Jennifer Watson
Email: guis_cua@nps.gov
Additional Info: $350 for 2 years + 3% of gross trip revenue
Mailing Address:Commercial Services Program Gulf Islands National Seashore 1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
✔️ Requires valid business license & proof of insurance
Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification (Florida Sea Grant Certification Program)
Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification (Florida Sea Grant Certification Program)
Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification (Florida Sea Grant Certification Program)
Contact: Michael Sipos
Phone: 239-252-4825
Email: sipos624@ufl.edu
✔️ Mention you're part of this association, and you may qualify for a waived certification fee
CODE OF CONDUCT
Client Experience & Safety
Prioritize client safety at all times.
Provide honest, respectful, and professional service.
Ensure clients are informed of fishing regulations, proper techniques, and safe practices.
Refrain from overbooking or overpromising results—this is fishing, not catching.
Legal Compliance
Operate with a valid business license and current liability insurance.
Comply with all local, state, and federal fishing laws and regulations.
Do not guide in restricted, private, or closed areas.
Conservation & Environmental Ethics
Practice and promote catch-and-release when appropriate.
Minimize impact on wildlife, habitats, and beaches.
Leave no trace—clean up after yourself and clients.
Participate in or support local conservation initiatives when possible.
Respect & Community
Treat clients, beachgoers, fellow guides, and local residents with respect.
Avoid conflicts and maintain professionalism, even in competitive situations.
Do not speak negatively about other guides or businesses.
Professional Integrity
Represent yourself and the association with honesty and transparency.
Do not engage in fraudulent, misleading, or unethical business practices.
Refrain from substance use while guiding.
Accountability
Accept constructive feedback and ongoing improvement.
Report any violations of this code through proper internal channels.
Understand that repeated or serious violations may result in disciplinary action or removal from the association.
As members of the Gulf Coast Land-Based Fishing Guide Association, we commit to upholding the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and environmental stewardship. This Code of Conduct ensures that all guides represent the sport, the coast, and our community with integrity and respect.
By joining Gulf Coast Land-Based Fishing Guide Association, each member agrees to abide by this Code of Conduct in all professional activities. Together, we protect the coast, support each other, and elevate the profession of land-based guiding.