If this is the year you've decided to take a guided fishing trip, then you have a little homework to do. A good fishing guide can make the difference between a trip of a lifetime and a nightmare! So how do you know who's legitimate? Here are a couple of tips to make sure you book with the best.

First, search the web. Most legitimate guide services have websites that offer everything from pictures of catches to testimonials from previous customers. It's a great way to learn about the trips offered, what to expect, what you need to bring and most importantly, what it will cost. Secondly, attend you local travel sports or boats shows and you'll get a chance to speak one-on-one with guides from both your region and around the country. They'll be happy to show you pictures and you can usually book on the spot if you like what you see. Plus, many guides offer a "boat show" discount so you might be able to save a buck or two.

The very best way to gauge a guide is undoubtedly through personal testimonials. Ask your fishing buddies who is good and why, and I'm sure they'll be happy to tell you. Remember, a happy customer is a repeat customer. Just beware that if your buddy's cousin's best friend's brother-in-law said he caught 800 fish on a particular trip, keep in mind that if it sounds too good to be true... it probably is.

And my best word of advice as an old fishing guide myself is to always remember it's fishing! Some days they bite better than others, so the truest barometer of a great guide is how hard they work to put you on fish when the conditions aren't perfect.

So make this the year you book the dream fishing adventure of a lifetime. Just remember to do your homework.