How much do flat water kayak guides make

Question

How much could I expect to make as a kayak guide on flat water such as lakes and large rivers in the south west part of the U.S.? Looking for a salary range working for an established outfitter, not looking to start my own business.

Answer 1

Not a lot.  Unfortunately, in the Southwest, river travel isn't the first thing people think of.  I've paddled the Colorado River in Black Canyon, and down in the Yuma area on over night, multi-day trips.  I have a friend in Vegas who helps out with an outfitter friend by guiding once in a while. I think he might make $150 to $200 a weekend, but it's a 24 hours a day gig, and it's a ton of work.  He has extensive training in first aid and river safety, and has been paddling for a long long time.  

Most outfitters will require that guides have some level of Wilderness First Aid as well as a water rescue class so that you know how to use a throw bag, etc.  Liability insurance is a huge expense for outfitters.  Clients make dumb mistakes, even on flat water, and can panic.  (Especially COLD flat water, like the Colorado).

Check out KayakLakeMead.com and Desert River Outfitters and see what their requirements are.