My columns the last two weeks have spurred some questions. Most often I have been asked by readers, “Could I be a professional angler.”  People who enjoy fishing, and are talented at catching fish, do ponder the possibility of making it a career.

Imagine waking up and getting paid to fish tournaments all over the country. It would be awesome, right? Yes, it sure can be. Now more than ever, the possibility to make a living at catching fish can become a reality. But there are some harsh realizations to the pro fishing world that often go overlooked.

Making a living in the tournament scene is no different than trying to go pro in any sport. Athletes from baseball to bowling have to put in the time, work amazingly long hours, and go through lots of hardships to get to the pinnacle of their game.