I don't think I could ever go Catholic neither. I don't have anything at all against Catholics, but I'm definitely a Protestant. I've thought Baptist, too, but likely will give the LCMS a try before I'd make that move. It isn't so much that my local church is that bad, as it is me picturing my money ending up in the hands of NCC'ers and other terrible groups the ELCA is involved with. I'm an older single guy too, so church's are uncomfortable to start with, being family-oriented, so comfort is of a lot of concern, and staying Lutheran in some form would be preferrable.
I felt the same way when I left the Methodist Church I loved. I didn't want my tithe going to the hierarchy and then to the national crap they support. (National Council of Churches, etc.) I'm in a spirit-filled former Baptist Church now and very happy there. The teachings and the pastors are sound, the congregation loving, and the music is great. Ask God to show you where HE wants you.