Apprentice
Apprentice Wanted
Custom Bait Shop — Middle Tennessee
Custom Bait Shop is looking for one apprentice to work directly alongside Adam, the artist and owner.
This is not a corporate job.
This is not mass production.
This is hands-on, small-batch, real bait-making.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how custom baits are actually made — from raw blanks to finished paint jobs — this is that opportunity.
What You’ll Be Doing
As an apprentice, you’ll help with the behind-the-scenes work that keeps Custom Bait Shop moving:
- Prepping bait blanks
- Sanding, cleaning, and surface prep
- Priming and base coating
- Assisting with paint processes
- Helping organize workflow so Adam can stay focused on painting customer orders
- You’ll be working directly with Adam, learning techniques, materials, and the artistic process that goes into every bait.
This is a real shop environment — not theory, not YouTube shortcuts.
What You’ll Learn
You will be taught:
- Proper bait prep from start to finish
- Paint and finishing fundamentals
- How custom lure art is designed and executed
- Workflow, efficiency, and quality control
- What it actually takes to run a small custom bait business
If you want to eventually make your own baits, this is invaluable experience.
Compensation (Read This Carefully)
This is not a paid position.
However:
- You will be trained directly
- You will be allowed to make your own lures using Custom Bait Shop stock from time to time as a reward for your work
- If the operation scales in the future, there is the possibility of a paid position later on
- You'll be required to sign a non-compete and a non-disclosure agreement as well as part of learning the business.
No promises. No hype. Scaling takes time.
This opportunity is best suited for someone who values learning a craft over immediate pay.
Location Requirements
- You must be located in Middle Tennessee
- You must be close enough to:
- Work with Adam in person or
- Operate from your own workshop while staying closely connected
- This is not remote
Who This Is (and Isn’t) For
This is for you if:
- You love fishing, bait making, or custom art
- You want hands-on experience, not shortcuts
- You’re reliable, detail-oriented, and patient
- You’re okay starting small and learning properly
This is not for you if:
- You need immediate income
- You’re looking for a fast-track business partnership
- You don’t like repetitive prep work
- You expect guarantees
How to Reach Out
If this sounds like something you’re genuinely interested in, fill out the form at the bottom of this page, and reach out and tell me:
- A little about yourself
- Why you’re interested in bait making
- Your location in Middle Tennessee
- Any relevant experience (not required)
Custom Bait Shop is built on craft, patience, and doing things the right way — not the fast way.
If that resonates with you, let’s talk.
— Adam
Owner & Artist, Custom Bait Shop