Guides at Baker Lake - Whatcom County

[hewesfisher]

Here is the response I got from WDFW, USDA, and USFS the latter two being the regulatory agencies. As written, it indicates guides were allowed to operate on Baker Lake IF they obtained a Special Use Authorization from the USFS. The letter, dated 7/22/15, states a Special Use Authorization is no longer needed and properly licensed guides may indeed offer guided fishing trips on Baker Lake.

The .pdf I received from WDFW (who received it from USDA & USFS) was saved as an image so I could not simply copy the text and post here. Best I can do is provide a picture of a picture. Click on the image twice to read text.

The only reason I inquired is I was curious why guides were supposedly not permitted to operate on Baker Lake. I'm not a guide, just a curious sport angler.

[ebpip]

I spoke with a friend who works for the forest service, whom had spoken with WDFW, and he said there is only one authorized guide on Baker Lake. Others are welcome to apply for permission, but haven't.

[hewesfisher]

Read the letter, guides do NOT have to apply for a permit anymore, the requirement for a Special Use Permit has been rescinded effective 7/22/15.

[Mike Carey]

I predict as the word gets out next year we will see more and more guide boats.