We're in the midst of a cool-down, but no one is going to forget the scorching temperatures July ushered in. That's made working outside tough, unless you're doing something you love.
It's part of our month-long series called Hot Jobs.
It's the start to his day. The New River in Pulaski County is Darin Gillenwater's office and he enjoys every minute there. "If I'm going to make a living doing anything, on the river is where I would really want to be," he said.
He and his wife own Greasy Creek Outfitters, a fishing guide business. Gillenwater bought the company from a friend earlier this year. "A lot of times people work nine to five jobs in the office. They don't get to be out here. It's really enjoyable for me to bring people out," he explained.
It seems like a cool job, but the sun is harsh out on the river. "Fluid intake is a huge thing. I try to stay away from coffee, sodas and things like that. My thing is good, old water."
It's also a good thing there's a breeze along the river on this triple digit degree day. "It's just basically one big channel for both water and air," he quickly explained.
Gillenwater has more expertise than most on this river. He's an EMT and served as a bodyguard and medic for 2 1/2 year in Iraq. "I'm an EMT, so I carry more than most people would. Basic bandaging supplies, another thing I carry, but not in there is sunblock. Personally I like to use clothes to block the sun."
For most the appeal is the joy of the serenity. Plus what you might hook; everything from small mouth bass to muskie. And despite the heat in the middle of the summer, it's the beauty and changes of this place during Gillenwater's season, March through November, that really keep it interesting. "There's always something to look at. The tree line, the ways to the trees break the sky up. It's just an amazing world we live in and I'm very lucky to have the job I do and be able to be out here in it."
Gillenwater hopes to expand his business and eventually add more guides and boats.
