Tipping for Alaskan Outfitters and Bush Pilots

[Jackal7]

We are heading out of Kotzebue on August 31st for an outifitted/unguided caribou hunt. One question my group has is who if anyone is it standard to tip, and how much is a baseline for tipping?

This is new to our group so any input is much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Nick Muche]

I usually tip my pilot when I am dropped off for the hunt, that way he doesn't forget about me... Learned that the hard way. Sometimes I fly with the owner of a company and I don't normally tip them. Either way, tip whoever you'd like but I'd start with the pilot.

 

[VernAK]

Leave some MN money in AK as I've left plenty in MN!

 

[Ono]

I usually tip my pilot when I am dropped off for the hunt, that way he doesn't forget about me... Learned that the hard way. Sometimes I fly with the owner of a company and I don't normally tip them. Either way, tip whoever you'd like but I'd start with the pilot.

How long did he forget about you?

Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

 

[Kevin Dill]

Nick is young and he's too brave. Don't tip any pilot until they have you in and out with great landings.

Definition of a good bush landing: That's one you can walk away from.
A great landing is one you can walk away from with a smile.

 

[elkeaterco]

Tip before you leave, it might get you dropped off in a better spot. Plus, if you need moved or a early take out it helps.

Jake

 

[Nick Muche]

Ono,

It was a 9 day hunt and I think we got picked up on day 12 or 13, not due to weather. I guess when three peoples wives and one person's boss calls the air service we flew out with they finally remembered us

 

[VernAK]

If your flight provider has a gal in the office, be sure to get in good with her as she's the one that keeps those pilots organized. I also send an INReach message to her every morning to let her know what the weather conditions are in our area or if we have meat to pickup.

 

[Corey Paulsen (teamkabob)]

Great tips


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Where's Bruce?]

Guide tipping is usually 10-15% of hunt cost but if the guy is great to spend time with, has done his homework, works hard, considers you and your mental/physical state and gets you shot opps then I go 20%-25%.

 

[CentOregon60]

Great info thanks!