IOGA Welcomes New Executive Director, Erik Weiseth, as Aaron Lieberman Heads to National Role

The Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association (IOGA) is excited to announce a new chapter in its leadership. Longtime board member and industry advocate Erik Weiseth has stepped into the role of Executive Director, following the departure of Aaron Lieberman, who now takes the reins at America Outdoors Association.

A Familiar Face With a Passion for Idaho

For those who’ve spent time on Idaho’s rivers, in its backcountry, or advocating for the future of our wild places, Erik Weiseth is no stranger. With over 20 years of experience as a rafting guide, outfitter, and business leader, Erik has built his career on a deep respect for Idaho’s natural resources and the communities that depend on them.

He has served on the IOGA board for years — most recently as Vice President — and brings to this new role a strong commitment to the rural businesses that form the backbone of Idaho’s outdoor recreation economy.

“I’m honored to lead this organization that’s given so much to me,” Erik says. “As outfitters and guides, we’re more than just stewards of wild experiences — we’re essential to the vitality of Idaho’s rural communities. My goal is to protect what makes our way of life possible: access to public lands, healthy wildlife populations, and a sustainable, resilient outfitting industry.”

Born with a love for rivers and raised in the world of outdoor adventure, Erik spent over two decades guiding trips, managing operations, and leading one of the region’s river outfitting companies. His experience spans both sides of the equation: in-the-field guiding and behind-the-scenes business strategy — giving him a unique lens on the challenges and opportunities facing Idaho’s outfitters today.

Celebrating the Leadership of Aaron Lieberman

IOGA also extends its heartfelt thanks to Aaron Lieberman for his extraordinary service over the past several years. Under Aaron’s leadership, IOGA strengthened its voice in state policy discussions, modernized its systems, and led successful efforts to secure critical legislation.

Highlights of Aaron’s tenure include:

• Liability reform legislation that ensured the continued insurability of Idaho’s outfitters

• Guided hunt tag allocation reform, creating a more stable future for the state’s hunting outfitters

• A consistent, effective presence in policy conversations around public lands, wildlife management, and small business support

“Aaron’s impact on this organization and our industry cannot be overstated,” said IOGA Board President Jeff Bitton. “We’re incredibly grateful for his leadership and proud to see him bring Idaho’s voice to a national platform at America Outdoors.”

Looking Ahead

This leadership transition comes at a critical time for the outfitting and guiding industry. Idaho’s public lands face increasing pressures from growing user groups, land access concerns, and rising operational costs. At the same time, our communities depend more than ever on the outfitting economy to drive jobs, tourism, and stewardship.

IOGA remains committed to fighting for the future of Idaho’s outdoor industry — and under Erik’s leadership, we look forward to strengthening our work on behalf of guides, outfitters, and the natural resources that make it all possible.