Earnings for hunting and fishing guides differ from state to state and from one expedition to another. Pay varies with the worker's level of responsibility, hours, specialty, and type of employer. Income for some guides depends on the number of clients each month. Room and board is provided by some employers. Guides may also receive substantial tips for their services.
Few guides have regular wages or fringe benefits. Their earnings depend on their skills, and their ability to get new clients and keep the ones they have. Many work other jobs during the off-season.
Tour and travel guides (SOC 39-7010)
| Location |
Pay Period | |
||
| 25% |
Median |
75% |
||
| Illinois | Hourly | $14.27 | $17.55 | $18.87 |
| Yearly | $29,690 | $36,502 | $39,238 | |
| Cook County | Hourly | $14.98 | $18.43 | $18.87 |
| Yearly | $31,159 | $38,341 | $39,238 | |
| Dekalb-Elgin-Aurora Area | Hourly | $13.22 | $14.27 | $18.87 |
| Yearly | $27,487 | $29,690 | $39,238 | |
| Du Page County | Hourly | $15.30 | $16.79 | $24.00 |
| Yearly | $31,830 | $34,932 | $49,924 | |
| Northwest Illinois Area | Hourly | $13.22 | $14.02 | $17.25 |
| Yearly | $27,487 | $29,159 | $35,887 | |
| Springfield Area | Hourly | $13.52 | $16.89 | $18.31 |
| Yearly | $28,123 | $35,142 | $38,084 | |
| United States | Hourly | $14.68 | $17.34 | $21.41 |
| Yearly | $30,530 | $36,060 | $44,520 | |