ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK

Last Updated: March 20, 2026

PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE PARTICIPATING IN ANY GUIDED TRIP OR SERVICE WITH WEST SIDE FLY GUIDE.

OVERVIEW

In consideration of the services provided by West Side Fly Guide, operated by Westley Allen, its agents, employees, and all other persons or entities associated with this business, I agree to the following terms. Although West Side Fly Guide has taken reasonable steps to provide appropriate equipment and skilled guides, I understand that the activities involved are not without risk. These inherent risks are some of the same elements that contribute to the unique character of these activities and cannot be eliminated without destroying that character.

NATURE OF ACTIVITY

Fly fishing is an outdoor recreational activity that takes place in natural environments including rivers, streams, and lakes. These environments are inherently unpredictable and involve risks that cannot be fully eliminated even with proper precautions and professional guidance. West Side Fly Guide does not want to frighten or reduce enthusiasm for this activity but believes it is important for all participants to know in advance what to expect and to be fully informed of the inherent risks.

INHERENT RISKS

I understand and acknowledge that participating in guided fly fishing trips and related services with West Side Fly Guide involves inherent risks, dangers, and hazards including but not limited to the following.

Wading in Rivers. Wading in moving water presents risks including slipping on wet or uneven surfaces, strong currents, cold water temperatures, entrapment in rocks or trees above and below the water, and the possibility of falling. River conditions can change rapidly and without warning.

Boat and Drift Boat Trips. Trips conducted from a boat or drift boat involve risks including capsizing, falling overboard, collision with rocks or other obstacles, and exposure to fast moving water.

Remote Locations. Guided trips may take place in remote locations with limited access to emergency services, medical facilities, or communication. Response times for emergency services in these areas may be significantly delayed.

Inclement Weather. Outdoor activities are subject to rapidly changing weather conditions including but not limited to thunderstorms, lightning, high winds, extreme temperatures, heavy rain, and flooding. These conditions can increase the risk of injury or illness.

Physical Exertion. Fly fishing and wading activities require physical fitness and exertion. Participants may experience fatigue, muscle strain, or other physical stress. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a physician before participating.

Wildlife Encounters. Guided trips take place in natural environments where wildlife including but not limited to insects, snakes, bears, and other animals may be present. Encounters with wildlife can result in injury.

The risk of injury from these hazards, both known and unknown, as well as from the use of equipment, transportation, and the river and its surrounding areas are significant. Injuries may include but are not limited to cuts, lacerations, bruises, sprains, strains, dislocations, broken bones, head injuries, drowning, permanent paralysis, or death.

I understand that the description of these inherent risks is not complete and that other unknown or unanticipated inherent risks may result in injury or death. I agree to assume and accept full responsibility for the inherent risks identified herein and those not specifically identified. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary and I elect to participate despite and with full knowledge of these inherent risks.

PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITIES

By participating in any West Side Fly Guide service I acknowledge and agree to the following. I will honestly disclose any physical limitations, medical conditions, allergies, or other factors that may affect my ability to safely participate in activities. I will follow all instructions and safety guidelines provided by my guide at all times. I will wear all required safety equipment including a personal flotation device when instructed to do so. I will not participate if I am under the influence of alcohol or any substance that may impair my judgment or physical ability. I accept responsibility for my own safety and the safety of those in my care including minor children. I acknowledge that West Side Fly Guide staff are available to provide a more in-depth explanation of the nature and physical demands of activities and the inherent risks associated with them before any trip begins.

ALLERGIES AND RESTRICTIONS

Please indicate if you have any allergies or restrictions that West Side Fly Guide should be aware of before your trip. This includes but is not limited to anaphylactic reactions to bees or other insects, food allergies, recent surgeries, or any medical conditions that may affect your participation. If you have no allergies or restrictions please indicate N/A.

Allergies or Restrictions: _______________________________________________

EMERGENCY CONTACT

Relationship to you: _______________________________________________

First and Last Name: _______________________________________________

Phone Number: _______________________________________________

RELEASE OF LIABILITY

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless West Side Fly Guide, its owner Westley Allen, employees, agents, and representatives from any and all claims, demands, losses, damages, costs, or liabilities arising out of or related to my participation in any West Side Fly Guide service, whether caused by negligence or otherwise. I certify that I am fully capable of participating in this activity and assume and accept full responsibility for myself, including all minor children in my care, custody, and control, for bodily injury, death, or loss of personal property and expenses as a result of inherent risks and dangers associated with these activities.

I have carefully read, clearly understood, and accepted the terms and conditions stated herein and acknowledge that this agreement shall be effective and binding upon me, my heirs, assigns, personal representative, and estate and for all members of my family including minor children. I acknowledge that this release is effective for the duration of the calendar year in which it is signed and that a new acknowledgement will be required each calendar year.

INDEMNIFICATION

I agree to indemnify and defend West Side Fly Guide and its owner against any claims brought by third parties arising from my participation in its services.

MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION

In the event of an emergency, I authorize West Side Fly Guide and its representatives to seek and authorize emergency medical treatment on my behalf if I am unable to do so myself. I agree that West Side Fly Guide shall not be liable for any costs, damages, or liabilities arising from such emergency medical treatment.

PHOTOGRAPHIC RELEASE

West Side Fly Guide may photograph or record guided trips for promotional and marketing purposes. By participating in our services I grant West Side Fly Guide permission to use photographs or recordings in which I appear, including images of any minor children in my care, for marketing, promotional, and social media purposes without compensation. If I do not wish to be photographed or recorded I will notify my guide before the trip begins.

PARENTAL OR GUARDIAN CONSENT FOR MINORS

If a participant is under 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must provide consent below. I certify that I am the parent or legal guardian of the minor participant. I certify that the minor is capable of participating in the activity and its related events and that they are able to properly use all required equipment including life vests. I consent to their participation in all West Side Fly Guide activities and agree that this release is binding on behalf of the minor participant.

Print Guardian Name: _______________________________________________

Guardian Signature: _______________________________________________

Guardian Phone Number: _______________________________________________

Date: _______________________________________________

AGREEMENT

Print Name: _______________________________________________

Signature: _______________________________________________

Date: _______________________________________________

Michigan Fishing License Number: _______________________________________________

Phone Number: _______________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________

CONTACT US

West Side Fly Guide. Email: westleysallen@gmail.com. Website: westsideflyguide.com.