Help getting into the Fishing Industry

[Skeeter0403]

Good afternoon everyone. Since there are many Professional bass anglers and Company Representatives on this site, I am looking for some help breaking into the industry as a Company Sales Representative. I have been fishing since I was 15 years old and I have a passion for the sport especially tournament fishing. For the past 4 years I have been in the Sales industry, selling newspaper advertising for 2 years and now Medical devices. Although I am in a great field and one that many people would die to get into, my passion is fishing and that's where I would like to make my career. I understand that companies usually select individuals who have been in the industry, but I am different. What I lack in industry experience I make up in results, drive and the desire to reach goals. I have documented success in each industry where I was consistently ranked in the top 10%. Any suggestions from anyone on where to start, or any contacts would be helpful and much appreciated. I thank everyone for your time and I look forward to hearing your thoughts/suggestions.

[mako]

Many of the big companies use independent rep agencies that carry multiple lines.  I'd contact manufacturers to see who reps their product.  You might consider selling for a jobber like Outdoor Sports based in Dayton OH.  There may also be some local wholesalers in your area. 

Selling direct for smaller manufacturers is tough as their support tends to be limited. Smaller companies typically don't have big marketing budgets which can make it a bit harder for you to sell.  It would be hard to make a living off of selling just one line in this situation too.

Good luck.

[texlwedge]

Put yourself together a top notch resume outlining your fishing experience and sales ecperience. Companies want to know what you can do for them and not so much as what they can do for you. A good starting point is to get on some field staffs, prove yourself and promote up to the Pro Staff level. Have a good mission statement and objective heading your resume. Also, include a brief bio and have a couple of good photos to send along with it. Having good product knowledge is a plus. Knowing the company's product that you applying for, and being able to tell them the good and/or bad points of the product can be a factor in landing a position. Not all companies are using marketing firms as some of the smaller companies I know of still utilize Field and Pro Staff to get the word out on their products. Never give up! Not every resume you send out will get you a position, so don't get discouraged. I would be more than happy to review your resume and assist you where I can, if you would be interested. Good luck and good fishing!

[Sam]

1.  BA or BS degree.

2.  Any type of sales experience.

3.  Willing to travel and give up weekends.

4.  Proper dress - no tattoos.

5.  Proper speech and being able to articulate.

4.  Nice haircut, like a banker or professional.

5.  Nice clothes and dress well, but do not overdo it.

6.  Find the reps from Berkley, Shimano, Abu, etc. and speak with them on how they got into the business.

7.  Do not expect to make a fortune.

Visit your local tackle shops and ask the guys who calls on them and are they willing to give you their names and phone numbers.

If so, give the reps a call and talk to them about how they got into the business and is it really what you think it is.

Do your homework; get some experience selling anything you can; get that degree; look good and speak well; be ready to move; and good luck.