Article by: Don Applegarth

Gaining sponsorship in the fishing world is not as difficult as most anglers believe, and there are many different types and levels of sponsorship available. Sponsorships are a blessing for anglers, and certainly offset much of our expenses. But, we must also understand that whenever we agree to accept sponsorship from a company, we are basically agreeing to work for them, and act as a professional at all times.

Another thing to realize is that acting in a professional manner, does not mean you must win every event you fish. Instead it means that you should consider very carefully all offers before accepting them. Remember that you should only accept offers from companies, whose products you already use and are confident in, and knowledgeable with. If you don’t use a product already, and aren’t willing to spend your own money to purchase it, and chose it over other similar products, then you are going to have a hard time convincing others to do so.

I am very fortunate to have a few sponsors, and work hard to represent them as often and as honestly as I can. I do this in several ways. Yes I promote the products they sell, but I do so by answering questions about them honestly, based on my knowledge of the products, and experience using them. If you have a few products/baits that you are very comfortable and confident in, then those are good places to start.

This could include rods, reels, line, baits...etc. Contact the company, and thank them for the products. Let them know that you have used the products, and believe in them. Let them know that you feel that you would make a good candidate for a sponsorship position in your area, and that you would be happy to help them in any way possible. Never ask what they can or are willing to do for you, but rather ask what you can do for them.

Offer to send them a Bio/Resume and include everything you have about yourself inside. You are going to be surprised that most companies won’t care if you have ever won a tourney or not. In fact, many sponsored anglers never even fish tournaments! Remember that people skills are as important as fishing skills. That is a major point. If you really, honestly believe in a company and the products they produce and sell, you will make a great Pro Staff member. You must be willing to talk, openly and honestly about the products with people who are genuinely interested. Answer questions, and be willing to work shows, etc, or represent the company while fishing events.

You have to do a lot of work to let the sponsors know you are a good choice. After you have proven that you are sincere about helping them, then they will be willing to help you. Remember to always look and act professionally. Dressing neatly, and shaving, etc, all go a long way toward impressing sponsors, as well as others who may contact you about a product. You will also be surprised at how many new sponsors will approach you should you prove yourself.

You never know who is watching or listening. Whether you are doing a seminar, working a booth, fishing a tourney, or just chatting at the local tackle store, you are always representing your sponsors.

If a company is seeking an individual, and are impressed with you, they will contact you! I can assure you this is true, but don’t agree to join every staff that comes along either. Remember: Be sure the company makes products you use, and are confident in. Do not accept sponsors whose products conflict with other sponsor’s products. Don’t over extend yourself. You can’t be in 5 places at the same time, so know your schedule, and if you are interested in a company, let them know what you are already involved with, and ask what they would expect/need from you.