Over 100 years ago, on March 19, 1897, Maine was the first state in the nation to set minimum standards that required outdoor guides to be registered. For over 100 years before that, Native Penobscot guides took adventurers and surveyors into Maine’s North Woods. Since then, Maine Guides have been fortunate to guide not only in Maine but in northern Canada and Alaska, and being a Registered Maine Guide is synonymous with professionalism and competence. Maine Guides truly have a national reputation.
The Maine Wilderness Guides Organization is an association of Registered Maine Guides and Sporting Camp/Lodge owners and their supporters. As an organization we are committed to protecting the habitat in which we guide in, for our profession, our clients, and for the fish and game we pursue, and for future generations. Our membership is composed of a diverse selection of professional guides who are committed to providing safe, educational, and meaningful outdoor experiences for our guests. MWGO is the leading organization in offering guide training and development opportunities for the professional guide and those preparing to take the Maine Guide exam. All MWGO guides have made a commitment to maintain qualifications and standards higher than those required by the state.
MWGO guides also work with the State of Maine in order to help identify issues that are detrimental to the wellbeing of the forests, waters, and mountains in which they live and work. MWGO also promotes non-motorized backcountry areas and trails large enough for extended trips. These large scale backcountry areas are also good habitat for the fish and game we pursue or simply enjoy watching. Good wildlife habitat is good guide habitat. MWGO is an active advocate in the areas of fish and wildlife conservation and quiet backcountry recreation areas. We also monitor the legislative agenda and the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife about matters that are of importance to Maine Guides.