Golf may be the new activity for business deals but the classic fishing trip is still used by many powerful men and women in business for gauging the real character and mettle of prospective clients, investors and customers.
Today many corporate employees enjoy taking to the links for a relaxing game of golf that will also include business talk.
Taking a prospective client out for a leisurely game on the back nine is a popular business meeting idea but you'll find out very little about the person as the game itself is really no test of someone's character.
If you really want to test the mettle of a client you're considering spending money with take him or her out for a fishing trip on a challenging river known for steelhead and salmon and you'll leave with a much better idea of the caliber of person you're dealing with.
Fishing is a challenging activity that doesn't require professional level strength or athleticism so it's an activity most people can partake in no matter their skill level or experience.
Like golf fishing requires patience, instincts and cunning to make a successful catch.
But unlike golf where players are apt to leave a course should a little rain fall or some thunder rolls ahead fishing trips are a more hearty activity that tests the endurance and fortitude of the participants.
Years ago fishing was the in thing to do for big business clients and deals and many important players in international and national business would head to the mountains for a weekend of fly fishing, camping and roughing the great outdoors to build camaraderie and to get to the real person behind the title.
Steelhead and salmon fishing provides a great environment for entertaining important clients and putting prospect to the test.
Seeing how someone reacts to rough rapids, difficult terrain and the challenge of luring world class salmon and steelhead says much more about a person than a cover letter or resume.
Fishing may not even be your hobby or idea of a good time but the activity itself is a great exercise in judging the character of the people you are working with.
In addition to giving clients and prospects the trial by fire you can also use salmon and steelhead fishing trips for company teambuilding exercises too.
Oregon, Washington and Northern California are rife with bountiful steelhead and salmon fishing spots that will offer exciting fishing and a great opportunity to bond with coworkers.
Being able to fish for the day and then rough it overnight on a scenic campground by a roaring fire is a relaxing activity that allows for sharing and relationship building that golf just doesn't allow the time for.