For guiding day trips in sea kayaks on inland waters, what license is necessary?

For guiding day trips in sea kayaks on inland waters, a Recreational License is necessary because this license covers the requirements for guiding activities that are non-commercial and take place in less challenging environments, such as inland waters. This includes lakes, slow-moving rivers, and other types of calmer waters where less specific expertise or deeper navigational skills are typically required.

The Recreational License is intended for guides who provide less intense outdoor experiences, focusing on safety and enjoyment rather than advanced skill instruction. In contrast, the other licenses, such as a Sea Kayaking License or a USCG Captain's License, would require additional training and skills more suitable for challenging coastal or open-water situations, which are beyond the scope of typical day trips on inland waters. An Overnight Guide License would also not apply as it is designed for extended trips rather than single-day activities. Thus, the Recreational License aligns perfectly with the needs of guiding day trips in the specified environment.