Summer vacation is in full swing and it’s a time for kids and teachers to relax. But for some educators the summer provides time to earn an extra buck. Bill Lavin is a fourth-grade teacher at Pepper Ridge Elementary in Boise and this summer he’s out on the water as a fishing guide.

“Fishing is something that I love to do and I decided to turn my hobby into a business,” Bill said. “I hope to make some extra money doing it.”

Bill owns Southern Idaho Fishing Excursions. He started the business in 2014, as an ice fishing guide on Lake Cascade near Donnelly. This is his first summer guiding for walleye and trout on Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir near Rogerson and Lower Goose Creek Reservoir near Oakley.

“I provide all the gear, bait, tackle and the boat,” Bill said. “If you want to go fishing you just need to bring a fishing license.”

Bud Wilson, who has been fishing for more than 54 years, went out on a fishing trip with Bill recently. Wilson caught more than 10 walleye and took home the limit of five.

“It was such an excellent trip and Bill has a great personality,” Wilson said. “I learned some new techniques and plan to go out fishing with him again, but next time as friends.”

Bill has been teaching in the classroom for 25 years and has been fishing in Idaho for more than 30 years. He considers himself an avid walleye, trout, and perch fisherman.

“I do tell my students about my adventures, but I have decided I think they enjoy the stories because it gets them out of doing work.”

Are you a teacher and have a fun summer job? Idaho Ed News wants to feature you ­– email [email protected] and share your story!