We’re looking forward to introducing you to Chris Johnson. Check out our conversation below.
Chris, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is by far the most important me. A good reputation is something that is exceptionally hard earned. While intelligence is valuable, character is what defines any individual. Besides that, if there is ever a lack of energy, there is always coffee!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Chris Johnson, owner of Living Waters Fly Fishing, a fly fishing retailer and guide service that is based in Round Rock, Texas. One of the things that differentiates Living Waters Fly Fishing from many other similar businesses is our absolute commitment to education, our community, and conservation.
I personally believe that if you educate customers, they in turn will become part of your community. As that community grows, they begin to advocate for the places we all love and enjoy, Conservation has long been a pillar in the sport of fly fishing. As a business, we encourage people to get involved at a grassroots level early in their fly fishing career. We strive to leave our rivers better than we found them!
From an educational standpoint, we host multiple events weekly at the shop to help anglers of all skill levels learn more about the sport. All of our in-house, public classes are completely free of charge! This creates a no-risk environment for folks to give the sport a try. I have found that if new anglers spend even a minimal amount of time learning to fly fish, they will likely never put it down!
Living Waters Fly Fishing is a full-service outfitter and we regularly equip anglers that fish all over the world as well as those who fish right down the street.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents were honestly the most influential people in my life when it came to instilling my personal work ethic. Regardless of whether the task was a simple chore, schoolwork, or service related project, my parents always encouraged me to strive for excellence in all that I put my hands to. A principle that I still strive to abide by to this day.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been a couple of occasions when I was dangerously close to closing up the fly shop. Tough times make great businesses if they can weather the storm. The reasons for each difficulty varied, but my response was always the same – Dig deep, think outside the box, get creative, and above all else, pray hard!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Most definitely! I believe in authenticity and I am the same person regardless of the venue or environment. The world has plenty of people that hide behind “influencer” personas, I’m just not one of them. I want people to experience genuineness when in any level of personal or business relationship with me.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I finally leave this earth, it my personal hope and prayer that people will say that I loved God and loved people with all of my heart. I want to love well and love intentionally. If I am remembered for anything, I sincerely hope it is that and that alone. Businesses come and go and time itself passes at an alarming rate. Love is timeless and it leaves a legacy that will outlast any temporary victory on this earth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.livingwatersflyfishing.com
- Instagram: @livingwatersflyfishing
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/LivingWatersFlyFishing
- Youtube: @livingwatersflyfishing
Image Credits
Chris Johnson, Dustin Scott, Rustic River Media
