I always tip and try to tip generously and I try to spend locally for things that I can (like hitting Zup's for last minute stuff and perishables).  I love the place and I want to 'invest' in the future of the area so my favorite places will be there for years to come.  The Ely area is not high income, high tax base, so the more you spend locally, I feel, the more it strengthens the local economy for all.  I usually end up staying a few days extra on the front end of the trip and will typically tip the outfitter/staff 10-15%, depending on how much of their services I use.  And like Mossback says, a few bucks for some good local intel can really make the trip.

pd