Working in the Outdoor Industry

[OddChase]

I'm wondering if any of you have worked in some form of the outdoor industry and what experiences you've had?

 

I graduate this coming winter with a bachelor's degree in accounting and I plan on pursuing my CPA certification the following year. However, I know that I would rather work in the outdoor industry, not an accounting firm. 

 

[roadwarrior]

You should work for an accounting firm for a few years, then do anything you like!

 

[OddChase]

Just now, roadwarrior said:

You should work for an accounting firm for a few years, then do anything you like!

 

That's the plan right now! I'm just wondering what others have to say about working in the fishing/hunting/outdoor industry! Would love to be an amateur angler in the BFL or something once I have some time and money to burn. 

[NorthwestBasser]

Outdoor companies, whether it be a retail giant like Cabelas or BPS, rod and reel manufacturing, firearm companies, large guide services, outdoor apparel... they all have payroll, taxes, debits and credits. Import and export of goods and supplies, services rendered. All of that equals money and numbers. They all need accountants or even a Chief Financial Officer. Trying to gain employment with one of these companies as an accountant may be the best of both worlds for you. You get to work with a great outdoor focused company while using your degree you spent so much time, money and effort earning. And you will probably get opportunities to enjoy some unforgettable outdoor experiences with or for that company too! If you really dont want to do the numbers game the rest of your life, there is always room on a factory boat in Alaska! Mmmm... fish heads!

[3rdDon]

Lake Fork Guy on youtube recently posted a series of videos outlining his career in the outdoor industry. Pro's/Cons and what he's doing now. Pretty sure I'm not allowed to post links, but a simple search on youtube and you'll find him.

 

Hope it helps

[lonnie g]

deffinatly find a job you love. I would be a shame to go to work every day and hate it.  we all have to start some where ,and do what we have to too support our families. but never give up on your dreams. the good thing is fishing is a great way to relax ,think, spend time with family, not to mention just a great time! hang in there my friend I'm sure you will figure it out. tight lines to ya.

[TnRiver46]

I got my degree in wildlife management and now do wildlife damage control for a living. It's all kinds of fun, already killed a sewer rat today! Haha 

[gim]

I used to work for the DNR (Department of Natural Resources).  Started as a fish tagging intern one summer and then it led to a more permanent field position (surveyor) afterwards.  The governing body of each state for natural resources often get a bad rap, but having been a former employee, they do their jobs the best they can given the resources and manpower that they have.

[blckshirt98]

The state-level fish and game agencies do a good job of resource management, you can see it with the fishing and hunting opportunities available now.  Where it gets kind of dodgy are at the federal level where it's often lobbyists and politics that have heavy influence that may not have everyone's best interest and welfare in mind.  Even at the local level I see a lot of differences in management, for example in the East Bay and Contra Costa County, the water districts there stock and emphasize the recreation value of their lakes and try to market and draw in visitors, while in Santa Clara county the water district sees fisherman as an annoying nuisance and if they had their way would drain the reservoirs dry and kill off all the fish even though other options are available.

[Ratherbfishing]

Granted, your goal is probably not to get rich but during the gold rush, with few exceptions, it wasn't the miners who got rich.  It was the merchants who sold them their picks, shovels, candles, etc.

[Bucky205]

I've done the retail side for Westmarine who is large, and also managed a small sporting goods store.  As an accountant in the retail side the number of available positions is limited. IMO..I would consider the state and government agencies a better option.

[TOXIC]

Having been in the "industry" for over 40 years, I would suggest you get a job in your field and use your downtime to pursue other opportunities.  Easier to find a job when you have a job.....and experience.