I guided and at the time didn't realize guys could actually do it as a "living". They make pretty damn good money but they are gone all the time. Think starting in AK, down to MT/WY, then to say NM/AZ. Then come spring either back up to AK or head over seas to Africa, NZ or both. I'd say while you are young do it for a couple years just for the experience. In the summer either be a fishing guide (has to be way worse than being a hunting guide) or take up a trade.
As others have said you get very little to no time to hunt for yourself. Just liking/loving to hunt isn't going to cut it. You have to be fine with people being shitty shots, hunters, and outdoorsman. And in general be ok with some of them just being shitty human beings. Do it with a smile and act like you give a damn if those clients are successful. However, There are a good number of great people I met and some of my favorite memories were with clients (most the time in shitty situations).
But I have a hard time wrapping my head around you not having any idea of what you are going to do and getting married. Just doesn't compute. Also, what does your Fiance do? What are her thoughts/goals? Can she find work out west? or are you banking on her staying back east?
As others have said you get very little to no time to hunt for yourself. Just liking/loving to hunt isn't going to cut it. You have to be fine with people being shitty shots, hunters, and outdoorsman. And in general be ok with some of them just being shitty human beings. Do it with a smile and act like you give a damn if those clients are successful. However, There are a good number of great people I met and some of my favorite memories were with clients (most the time in shitty situations).
But I have a hard time wrapping my head around you not having any idea of what you are going to do and getting married. Just doesn't compute. Also, what does your Fiance do? What are her thoughts/goals? Can she find work out west? or are you banking on her staying back east?