I'm curious:  I realize the fishing industry is struggling now because of the recession, but let's pretend the economy was good.  What job or career in the fishing or tackle industries would you like to pursue if you had a magic wand?   Would you like to be  a fishing guide, engaged in boat sales or maintenance, tackle salesman, tackle designer or rod builder, fish management or enforcement, fishing magazine writer or editor, TV fishing host, etc.. ?  (And don't everyone say "B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year!"  That is stretching it a bit!)

Sure, I know, most of us are confined by family responsibilities, financial demands, and have a host of other reasons we have to stay in the fields or jobs we're presently in, but we can dream can't we?  

I ask this because I am seriously considering alternatives to the ordained ministry. (Don't tell my church!)  And it's fun to explore other possibilities.  So come on - play along with me.  Fire up the imagination and share a fishing or tackle industry dream...

Rev,

I would like to follow someone's foot steps like Ray Scott or Forrest L. Wood.  I would like to be able to put on and run a fantastic touny trail.

Marc

Sarge, I'm shocked!  Where did you get such a wild idea!   

Rev,

I have two choices for this question, first would be just being a bass angler, not angler of the year persay, but being able to fish all the time and make a living doing so has always bee a dream.  The more practical side would be fish management/enforcement.  I had once wanted to be a game warden but responsibilities pushed me into telecom and that is where I have been since.  It's hard to love the outdoors and not be out in it all the time.

Also sorry to hear your thinking of leaving the ministry, I know it is hard to find good folks in that field that can spread the word...

I have found that when you turn  hobbies or loves into jobs it can become a thing you start to hate over time.
But if I had my choice I would say Bass Bum
OOO I am that now so never mind.

How about the obvious.  Taking your ministry to the water, but in this case evangelizing kids into the fold of the sport of fishing and the outdoors.  Something like, oh I don't know, Fishing Kids or CAST for Kids.  

You could preach to the holy word of bass fishing to both the non-fishing youth and to the Infidel slimer fishers.

You could teach them from the holy bass books of Clunn, Nixon, Yelas, and the other angling saints.  

You could sprinkle them with holy water of the livewell and wash them in the smelling jelly of scent.

And finally you could baptize them in waters of the scared of sacreds - Banks Lake

Or just sell old lures at county fairs.

Your choice.

Just wanted to say thanks to all who participated in this discussion.  Your ideas, both serious and funny, stimulated the brain and got me to thinking about other opportunities - several of which I am researching and exploring.  You're a great club - and if I ever find a magic wand, I will hunt you all down and make your "fishing wishes" come true.  (Just don't hold you breath - I'm not sure what a magic wand really looks like! )  But again - thanks!  You guys are alright!