Lodge management is a topic that outdoor business owners do not always consider. Hunting outfitters and fishing charters often focus on providing excellent experiences on the water or in the field, but they may not pay enough attention to the importance of the lodging experience. Clients could have nothing but great things to say about the actual hunting or fishing trip, but negative things to say about the place they are paying to stay in. A majority of the time, bad reviews do not stem from the hunting or fishing, but rather from a dirty lodge, messy rooms, dishes not clean, lack of linens, and more.

Keep A Clean Lodge

A clean and well-maintained lodge is crucial for guest satisfaction. Clients are paying for the experience as a whole, not just the hunting or fishing. A satisfied client, or returning client, is going to appreciate clean sheets, prepared meals, plenty of towels, and a nice and neat common area to enjoy their time visiting. Some groups may even treat this as a vacation or bonding trip, so the quality of accommodations can greatly impact their overall experience.

Negative Reviews Arise

Negative reviews often come from issues such as a dirty lodge, messy rooms, unclean dishes, lack of or the neglect of serving meals, or a shortage of linens. Bird processing areas that are unsanitary or guides who do not clean up after themselves can also be a major turnoff for clients. These issues can easily be prevented with proper lodge management.

Set Clear Expectations

The importance of offering clear expectations and treating every client like they are valued cannot be overstated. Outfitters and charters may tend to over-promise or lowball the experiences ahead of time, which can lead to disappointed clients. Providing accurate information and setting realistic expectations can help prevent this and ensure that clients have a positive experience. Regardless if the client has been coming for years or is a first-timer, they should be treated and accommodated like the paying customers that they are. 

Hire Lodge Manager

Effective lodge management requires attention to detail and effective resource management. It is effective to nominate or hire a lodge manager. Lodge managers should be responsible for managing staff, inventory, and budgets, as well as coordinating schedules to ensure the lodge runs smoothly. They must be skilled at anticipating guests' needs, handling any issues that arise, and making sure their stay is enjoyable and memorable.

Exceptional Customer Service

In addition to maintaining the physical space, lodge managers should also be adept at providing exceptional customer service. They are responsible for creating a welcoming environment for guests and ensuring that their needs are met. This includes everything from providing recommendations for local attractions and restaurants to handling any issues that arise during the stay.

In conclusion, effective lodge management is crucial for the success of a hunting outfitter or fishing charter business. While it may be overlooked, the quality of accommodations can greatly impact clients' overall experience. A clean and well-maintained lodge, along with exceptional customer service, can help ensure that clients have a positive experience and become returning customers. The overall success rate will be greater by not only providing a trip of a lifetime, but prioritizing lodge management. Outfitters and charters can ensure the success of their business for years to come.