From Passion to Paycheck:
Do You Want to Become a Professional Guide?
Train the right skills, earn the right certifications, meet the right outfitters—without guessing.
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Master the Art of Outdoor Leadership
We train ethical hunters and backcountry leaders who honor land, wildlife, and the code of the hunt.
Lessons
Explore a comprehensive range of topics and gain valuable practical skills through our in-depth learning resources and hands-on experiences.
Expert Instructors
Discover valuable insights and expertise from top professionals in the field.
Timeline
In only six weeks you will learn the skills you need to get a running start as a professional guide's apprentice.
Hiring Blueprint
Understand how the guide and outfitting industry works from the inside out.
Outfitter Hiring
Gain instant visibility with top outfitters in the industry.
Outfitter List
Take control of your learning experience with the flexibility to study at your convenience, whether it's at home, on the go, or during your free time.
Upcoming Classes
Cohort A - 20th April 2026 - 29 May 2026
8 Students
Hunting: 20th April - 16th April
Fishing: 19th May - 29th May
Teachers:
Hunting: Swan Mountain Outfitters
Fishing: Montana Trout Hunters
Cohort B - 1st June 2026 - 11th July 2026
8 Students
Hunting: 15th June - 12th June
Fishing: 1st June - 12th June
Teachers:
Hunting: Swan Mountain Outfitters
Fishing: Montana Trout Hunters
Cohort C - 20th July 2026 - 28th August 2026
8 Students
Hunting: 20th July - 15th August
Fishing: 17th August - 28th August
Teachers:
Hunting: Swan Mountain Outfitters
Fishing: Montana Trout Hunters
Priority Access to 2026 Cohorts
Pathway to outfitter placement
We teach not just how to hunt, but how to honor the land, respect the wildlife, and guide others through Montana’s vast and untamed places. Our mission is to pass down the knowledge, skills, and code of conduct that preserve the spirit of the hunt—and Montana itself—for generations to come.
Looking to Get Started?
How It Works
Montana Guide School exists to train the next generation of hunters and wilderness guides—young men and women who will carry forward the values of ethical hunting, conservation, and backcountry leadership.
Join Founders List
Get the Starter Kit now
Receive training dates and apprenticeships first
Testimonials
Feedback and Reviews
Read what our past students have to say about our courses.
Rosalie Jacobi
"This course had a profound impact on my podcasting abilities, leading to a significant transformation in the quality of my content. I found that the course not only improved my technical skills, but also helped me to develop a deeper understanding of storytelling and audience engagement, resulting in a more compelling and impactful podcast."
Gurpreet Singh
"I highly recommend this comprehensive and engaging course to anyone interested in learning the art of podcasting. It covers a wide range of topics, including recording techniques, editing skills, and effective storytelling methods. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience in podcasting, this course offers valuable insights that will help you elevate your podcasting skills to the next level."
Kimberly Hand
"I gained invaluable insights and practical tips from the engaging and well-structured course, which have proven to be incredibly beneficial in enhancing both my personal growth and professional development. The knowledge and skills I acquired have positively impacted my decision-making process and have equipped me to tackle challenges with confidence and competence."
Empower
Meet The Leadership Team
Get to know the talented individuals behind our program.
Will Israel
President
Will Israel is a native Montanan, lifelong hunter, and passionate advocate for ethical, responsible outdoor traditions. He serves as the Executive Director of the Montana Outdoor and Guide Association, where he leads efforts to preserve access, elevate guiding standards, and pass down Montana’s wilderness heritage to the next generation. A retired U.S. Army officer, Will completed nine combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. He is also a devoted husband and proud father of five.
Leah Steinle
administrative coordinator
Leah Steinle is a native of Butte, Montana, a proud mother of one son, and a seasoned professional with an extensive background in financial administration and analytics. She brings precision, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to operational excellence to the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, where she ensures the organization’s financial health and data-driven decisions support the future of Montana’s outfitting industry. A lifelong Montanan, Leah is dedicated to preserving the state’s outdoor heritage while fostering sustainable growth for outfitters, guides, and the communities they serve.
FAQs
Find answers to commonly asked questions about the Montana guide Apprenticeship Blueprint.
How to enroll?
To enroll in our apprenticeship blueprint, simply join the founders list and follow the enrollment instructions provided.
What are the requirements?
There are no specific requirements to enroll in our podcasting courses. However, having a basic understanding of podcasting concepts and equipment can be beneficial.
Do you offer refunds?
Yes, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not satisfied with our courses, you can request a refund within 30 days of enrollment.
Can I access course materials after completion?
Yes, once you complete a course, you will have lifetime access to the course materials and any future updates.
Are there any prerequisites?
No, our courses are designed for beginners and do not have any prerequisites. We cover all the necessary topics from scratch.
When do you open?
To enroll in our courses, simply visit our website, choose the course you're interested in, and follow the enrollment instructions provided.
What does an apprenticeship entail?
To enroll in our courses, simply visit our website, choose the course you're interested in, and follow the enrollment instructions provided.
What does the apprenticeship blueprint cost?
To enroll in our courses, simply visit our website, choose the course you're interested in, and follow the enrollment instructions provided.
How young can students be to attend?
We accept students ages 10 and up.
Youth under age 13 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian for the full duration of the course.
Do I need hunting experience to attend?
No. This course is perfect for beginners as well as those looking to sharpen their skills or pursue guiding in the future.
Will I need to bring my own gear?
We’ll provide a detailed gear list after you register. You’ll need basic outdoor clothing, footwear, and personal items. We provide most of the gear you will need to conduct the course. We’ll cover gear selection in the course, and you don’t need to come with high-end equipment.
Will there be live fire training?
No. Students will be taught safe firearm handling and shooting skills under close supervision using controlled, range-based instruction, but no live firing will occur.
Will we go on a real hunt during the class?
This is a pre-season training course focused on hunting skills, safety, and ethics. You won’t harvest an animal during this event, but you’ll leave with the knowledge to do so legally, ethically, and effectively.
Do I need a Montana hunting license?
No license is required to attend the class. We’ll cover how to get properly licensed and how the Montana regulations work.
Can parents attend with their teens?
Yes. We encourage it. Parents often find the experience just as valuable. Plus, it helps reinforce the lessons back home.
What’s included in the tuition?
- 3 days of expert instruction
- Hands-on field exercises
- Safety and survival skills
- Range time with experienced guides
- Printed materials and follow-up resources
(Lodging and meals are not included.)
Is food provided?
Snacks and lunch are provided on day two. Students should bring their own water bottle.
Is lodging provided?
No. We’ll send local recommendations after you register.
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