KYbasser.... As a biologist of nearly 18 years, I can say be willing to move around. Try not to get hung up on living in the same area you are.... I got my BS from Colorado State and my MS from Texas A&M I have worked for Colorado, Texas and now MN. If you are willing to relocate (before getting hitched) It really helps.... There are several good schools around the country, Clemson, Auburn, Miss State, Colorado State, South Dakota State, Uconn, U Minnesota, U Maine... to name a few.... Look around a bit and decide whether you want to spend your career inland or on the ocean... Then think about what you really want to do and get all the experience you can... As other have suggested.... a Masters is a good start... the competition is fierce with dwindling budgets.... If you have experience and education...... you will be more of a commodity than the average Joe... I would suggest volunteering for your local fisheries office at some point to get a feel for not just the fun stuff but all the particular job entails....
Good luck!! 8-)
