No joking. I just got an email from a young man I’ve known since he was about 10, and now he’s looking at 20, and he wants to get into fly fishing. Not in a “I don’t know what to do with my education, but I like to fish” kind of way. More of an “all I’ve ever really liked has been fly fishing, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted to do kind of way.”Now we all know fishy little dudes… but this kid is over the top… like got in trouble at school because he cut class and jumped fences to go fishing too often. He’s from Florida, has spent many summers in Michigan, knows salt and freshwater like someone three times his age. And he’s a good person.
He says he’ll wash dishes, run shuttles, whatever he has to do to break in. But I think if someone taught him how to make rods or reels or boats, or other product… or, of course, guide, you’re talking about a legitimate prodigy, and 30 years from now, people will be talking about him.
Naturally, I sent him off to flyfishingjobs.com which is where all the smart people go to find jobs in the fly industry. It’s also where the smart companies go to find good talent.
I’m hoping he’ll reach out to some of you, and tell you I told him to do it. But if you’re looking for an inside connection, I’m happy to put you in touch. He’s not family, just a young man I’ve seen grow, and have always been blown away by his legit talent and drive when it comes to fly fishing.
K.Deeter
