Texas Coastal Bend Guides Association

History

The Coastal Bend Guides Association was founded in 1989. This non-profit association was originally organized with the primary purpose of increasing awareness among guides and outdoorsman regarding the affairs of Texas legislators, and other elements of the Texas state government, that have a direct impact on the outdoor sportsman industry as a whole.

During those early years, Texas Parks & Wildlife had no opposition when passing a bill into law. As the association grew, and gained more supporting members, the power of the association became more apparent. Today, Texas Parks and Wildlife regularly asks for the support of the Coastal Bend Guides Association's members prior to submitting a bill for legislation; especially those bills that would directly affect the outdoorsman, and related industries in general. Through the combined effort of the CBGA and TP&W, the result is a solid working partnership.

Since its inception, the Coastal Bend Guides Association has become a leader in community interaction and helping those who are less fortunate. As a vital provider for over ten years to such organizations as the Driscoll Children's Hospital and the South Texas Children's Home, the Coastal Bend Guides Association also extends a hand to those member families who have suffered a loss, or are in need of assistance.

Code of Ethics

All members of the Coastal Bend Guides Association acknowledge their responsibility to represent the guiding profession in a conscientious manner. We therefore commit ourselves to high standards of ethical conduct and hereby state the precepts that will guide us as we guide others.

• Obey all game management laws of the State of Texas and the United States Government.
• Obey all regulations of the United States Coast Guard.
• Adhere to the licensing requirements of the State of Texas and the United States Coast Guard and conscientiously renew and maintain licenses as required.
• Always exhibit professionalism in the execution of our duties as boat captains. We will remain vigilant so as to never endanger our passengers. Their welfare and safety will be of preeminent concern, making all other considerations secondary.
• Refuse the consumption of alcohol of any kind while operating a vessel.
• Remain strictly intolerant of unsafe, irresponsible, or illegal acts by anyone in our vessel including fellow members of the Coastal Bend Guides Association.
• Respect nature and the environment.
• Conduct ourselves honestly, honorably, and with integrity when dealing with the public and other members of the guiding fraternity.
• Refuse to aid, assist, or promote any individual who is unlicensed or unqualified in an attempt to provide illegal guide services to the public.
• Within the bounds of safety, reason, and ethics endeavor to provide for our clients a quality outdoor experience.

Goals