Want Sponsors?

[basspro96]

Thanks tin for backin me up

[Low_Budget_Hooker]

No worries, at the rate they are cutting the youth initiatives, there will be no BASS Jrs.  This seems to be ESPN's plan.  

[Tin]

Thanks tin for backin me up

Just my experiences. Plus, B.A.S.S. will be lucky to be around in another 5-10 years so FLW might be the only way to go.

[senko_77]

Ya the hundred hits a week was true when I first got it but everything went down sense then. I will change both. Thanks senko. And right now FLW is the best in B.A.S.S they make you go through a semi finals flw you just go to the championship. And B.A.S.S wont pay for anything now the clubs or the person has too.

I'm not trying to argue with you, but believe me, if you want to make it big, B.A.S.S. is the way to go. The FLW Jr. Championship is easier to get to. If you make it to the B.A.S.S., it's a bigger accomplishment. Do the research....it is so difficult to plug your sponsors at an FLW event.

It's simple really. If your in it for the money, go FLW. If your in it for a career, then go B.A.S.S.

If you want, I can list 10 examples of why BASS gives you more and better exposure than FLW.

You know I like you man but you got some facts wrong...

First off I have competed in both the FLW and B.A.S.S. Jr. World Championships.

Second, I do agree it is hard to plug your sponsors but thats about it.

FLW easier to get to???? Um.... they are both just as difficult. And now with more and more kids competing in FLW because they can still go fish with pro's and go to the big show, I would say FLW is more difficult.

B.A.S.S. is a bigger deal? Not anymore, now that there really is not big world championship for the kids anymore. You go fish a BFN divisionals. FLW, you still go to the big show. Last year in Hot Springs for the FLW world championship my sis picked up sponsors just by walking around.

And more exposure???? My sis and I have gotten so much from FLW it is nuts. Nothing from B.A.S.S. I have some DVD's if you want to see me from when I was in the FLW world championship. And during the FLW on Sundays on FSN they use to (have not watched in forever) have commercials and little plugs about their youth program and I was in them. B.A.S.S. never has anything on their Bassmaster program on Saturdays.

I'm sorry but from someone who has competed and been to both, FLW has given me much more and it was a much more enjoyable experience.

Mike, I hope you take my replies in the way that I'm saying them. In no way am I trying to attack you, just saying what I feel is true.

I know you, your sis, and plenty of other Jr. anglers got low balled BIGTIME by B.A.S.S. Your right, FLW does have a better Jr. program. But as far as which company gives you better exposure, it's very clear, and any big name in the industry will agree, that B.A.S.S. gives you more potential to make a name for yourself. As I stated earlier, if you want money, go FLW.

FLW gives the winner of the Jr. Champs like 5 seconds on t.v. and I might be wrong, but I have never seen anything in the FLW Outdoors mag on the winning Jr. anglers. B.A.S.S. and ESPN doesn't give the kids any time on the t.v. but from what I have seen, they write a good article in Bassmaster magazine.

FLW doesn't let you plug your sponsors AT ALL!!! It is so frustrating fishing the BFL's because in the press release following the tourny, they don't include company names unless it's an FLW sponsor. BASS gives the true story of lures, rods, and reels used.

Have you ever noticed on FLW Outdoors, all the anglers wear similar tourny shirts, hoodies, long sleeves, etc? FLW forces them to. BASS on the other hand allows you to wear whatever company supports you.

And lastly, all the big names fish BASS. There's no way to deny it. Yes, Nixon, Clausen, Ehrler, etc fish FLW, but rarely do you know much about the guys on  FLW's t.v. show. Now when it comes to the Elite series you know pretty much all of the anglers.

All the career advice that I have recieved in the fishing catagory all has one thing in common. Go BASS if I want a name. Go FLW if I want a big check.

To say that BASS will be gone in a few years is nonsense. BASS will never go away. I believe that FLW will continue to gain more weekend anglers, but as far as which organization has the top trail, BASS will always own that title.  They have a tougher pro circuit and a much more coveted championship.

Now to get back on track..lol. The best opportunity for young adults under 18 is FLW. You can go more places and compete in bigger events, but I truly believe that placing well in a FLW Jr. trail wont do a ton for you. Just my opinion.

Again, I hope this isn't taken the wrong way

[Tin]

Nope, not at all. It's funny though, I prefer FLW and I fish the Bassmaster Weekend Series, you prefer B.A.S.S. and fish the BFL. We have to get our stuff straight. lol

I do like B.A.S.S/ABA for all the incentives and bonus programs for the Weekend Series. You can walk out with an extra 5-8k.

[senko_77]

Nope, not at all. But why do you fish BFL over the Weekend Series then?

2 reasons.

1. I have a full time roommate and garunteed boater for the BFL's.  This cuts cost tremendously, and gives me someone to practice with.

2.  BFL Bulldog division fishes lakes that are closer to my house. 4 of the 5 BFL's were within 2 hours in the 2008 schedule.  2 out of 5 were within 2 hours in the 2008 Weekend series.  This means more gas, no garunteed boater, and no splitting hotel fees.  

[Tin]

PM sent Ryan, didn't mean to sound like I was calling you out.

[BassNub]

I love fishing and all but, I'm not out to look for sponsors. I'm out to enjoy myself and to enjoy what I do best and that is fishing. Right now I say that a person as young as I, or around the same age as me, shouldn't even worry about trying to get sponsors. You may be able to fish greatly and be determined in what you do but, are you mature enough to be able to present yourself as a professional figure and are you able to market yourself for the company that sponsors you? These here are my questions that I ask myself when I think about finding sponsors. You shouldn't find them, they should find you.

Sorry not topic related but, just wanted to throw some thinking questions out there for the younger people like myself.

[StephenPineau]

After reading what seems like hundreds of posts on BassResource.com

I am curious to know why kids these days are so infatuated with getting

sponsors?

I did some "Ask A Pro" stuff for a childrens fishing program and I got asked,

by kids that were 11 or 12 years old, how to get sponsors.

In reality "most" people (regardless of age) shouldn't even be concerned

with trying to get a sponsor. That energy should just be focused on fishing.

I want to hear from the 18 and under crowd as to why they are looking for

sponsors? I am also curious as to why they would even think that a company

would even be interested in dealing with someone with little to no business experience?

I would also like to hear from some of the over 18 group as to why they are looking

and why they think they are worthy of a sponsorship deal?

This topic is something that I have thought about numerous times.

JT Bagwell

I have to agree with JT. Whereas I can see where many of these kids are coming from (with wanting to get sponsors), I don't think that sponsorship should be anywhere on their list of priorities until much farther down the road in their career. I also think what a lot of people don't realize is that individuals that hound companies for a little product here and there or some sort of 'nothing' discount, actually hurts individuals that have already established themselves within the industry and their associated companies. What I mean by that is that it is becoming SUCH a common theme to see some 15 or 16 year old kid with a collection of logos on their jersey that companies begin buying into the idea that these individuals are deserving of a deal. Then, when they turn around and decide to help them out, it puts more and more strain on the company. Subsequently, when it comes time for established individuals to renegotiate contracts or improve their deals, the company has been taxed all year long and is then not able to provide the optimal deals to deserving anglers.  It winds up being a sort of "trickle effect" that ends up hurting everyone in the industry.

[StephenPineau]

Not to sound cocky, but I understand that business side I really do. I just wish I can make a decent resume and get notice. Anyone wants to email me what a good resume should look like for attracting sponsors?

What exactly are the sponsors looking for? Looking for what I can do for company, exposure I recieve, my maturality, and personality? Is that what sponsors looking for?

I'm stuck on trying to type and have a good organize resume. I've just written down rough drafts and stuff, but it not ready to be offical.

All sponsors see when they look at you is a large $100 bill. The goal of them sponsoring you is to get them more business. IMO, angling skill has nothing to do with it. Selling yourself has everything to do with it. If you cant throw anything but a zebco, but you can sell 1000 packs of GYCB senkos at a trade show, then your going to be sponsored over the guy who can put a jig in a thimble 20 yards away, but doesn't have marketing skills. If your hellbent on sponsors, concentrate your efforts on how to effectively sell yourself.

Kid knows his stuff.....You're gonna go a long way Senko...

[BigBubbaBassMan]

It's been said before but I'll repeat it again. Sponsorship should only be sought after you've won a few tournaments or can prove you've got the skills, knowledge, and ability to out-fish your competitors.

So find, fish, and win as many local and regional tournaments as you can find.

That said, a lot of bass Pros have day jobs that allow the pro a flexible work schedule and weekends off.

Good Luck

[yankthatsucker]

After reading what seems like hundreds of posts on BassResource.com

I am curious to know why kids these days are so infatuated with getting

sponsors?

I did some "Ask A Pro" stuff for a childrens fishing program and I got asked,

by kids that were 11 or 12 years old, how to get sponsors.

In reality "most" people (regardless of age) shouldn't even be concerned

with trying to get a sponsor. That energy should just be focused on fishing.

I want to hear from the 18 and under crowd as to why they are looking for

sponsors? I am also curious as to why they would even think that a company

would even be interested in dealing with someone with little to no business experience?

I would also like to hear from some of the over 18 group as to why they are looking

and why they think they are worthy of a sponsorship deal?

This topic is something that I have thought about numerous times.

JT Bagwell

who doesnt want free stuff?

[SPEEDBEAD.]

After reading what seems like hundreds of posts on BassResource.com

I am curious to know why kids these days are so infatuated with getting

sponsors?

I did some "Ask A Pro" stuff for a childrens fishing program and I got asked,

by kids that were 11 or 12 years old, how to get sponsors.

In reality "most" people (regardless of age) shouldn't even be concerned

with trying to get a sponsor. That energy should just be focused on fishing.

I want to hear from the 18 and under crowd as to why they are looking for

sponsors? I am also curious as to why they would even think that a company

would even be interested in dealing with someone with little to no business experience?

I would also like to hear from some of the over 18 group as to why they are looking

and why they think they are worthy of a sponsorship deal?

This topic is something that I have thought about numerous times.

JT Bagwell

who doesnt want free stuff?

I am guessing that is a rhetorical question, but I will answer with another question...

Why would anyone want to give you free stuff?  Not you specifically, but "you" being an everyday angler or even an above average person seeking sponsorship.

Its not just "free stuff".  More like rewards for services provided.

If you dont provide any service or an appreciable increase in a sponsor's business, why on earth would you get "free stuff".

You tell me...  

[yankthatsucker]

After reading what seems like hundreds of posts on BassResource.com

I am curious to know why kids these days are so infatuated with getting

sponsors?

I did some "Ask A Pro" stuff for a childrens fishing program and I got asked,

by kids that were 11 or 12 years old, how to get sponsors.

In reality "most" people (regardless of age) shouldn't even be concerned

with trying to get a sponsor. That energy should just be focused on fishing.

I want to hear from the 18 and under crowd as to why they are looking for

sponsors? I am also curious as to why they would even think that a company

would even be interested in dealing with someone with little to no business experience?

I would also like to hear from some of the over 18 group as to why they are looking

and why they think they are worthy of a sponsorship deal?

This topic is something that I have thought about numerous times.

JT Bagwell

who doesnt want free stuff?

I am guessing that is a rhetorical question, but I will answer with another question...

Why would anyone want to give you free stuff? Not you specifically, but "you" being an everyday angler or even an above average person seeking sponsorship.

Its not just "free stuff". More like rewards for services provided.

If you dont provide any service or an appreciable increase in a sponsor's business, why on earth would you get "free stuff".

You tell me...

Im gonna go fishing either way...im d**n good too so if you want to slap a shirt on me with your company name and give me some stuff in the process go right ahead... i could care less im just saying...

[SPEEDBEAD.]

I can see your point about going fishing anyway.  True.

If you are going to tout yourself as "dam good," you had better have some solid evidence to back it up.  The "I could care less" attitude would be less than flattering to potential sponsors, more like off-putting.

Again, let me reiterate that this is not directed specifically at you.  More to the people who might be reading this looking for some advice.

JMPO, whatever it's worth  

[yankthatsucker]

I can see your point about going fishing anyway. True.

If you are going to tout yourself as "dam good," you had better have some solid evidence to back it up. The "I could care less" attitude would be less than flattering to potential sponsors, more like off-putting.

Again, let me reiterate that this is not directed specifically at you. More to the people who might be reading this looking for some advice.

JMPO, whatever it's worth

trust me i dont take anything personally  ;D

[Scorcher214]

I'm currently 15,(turning 16 in February), and the only reason that I could see my self wanting sponsors if I wanted to get my name out there asap, if I was looking into fishing in some of the big name tournaments. But inorder to get your name out there, youd probly have to be a great fisherman, im good, but im not great, and for now, its for fun. Fish now, think later.

[Bass Dude]

Just a thought with the kids (15-17) who are looking for sponsors...with your lack of life experience it would be hard for a company to consider you.  Companies will say, "What does a teenager know about business and marketing."  A sponsorship is not a training ground, they are looking for immediate returns.  If you want to "learn" the businees, go to school or like someone said here, get a job in the business and use those skills to help you get a sponsor.  

Not to discourage you from going after it, but I think it's extremely hard for a company to accept the fact that a teenager, just out of high school or still in high school could bring them any returns.  Why would a 30 year old angler who has been fishing for years buy something that a 16 year old kid says is good.

I don't mean to be so blunt about this, but you need to be realistic.  You have plenty of time to gain sponsorship---keep fishing and you will be noticed!!  The reason people want to buy want KVD is selling---He wins with it!!!

[bassmaster3000]

I'm currently 15,(turning 16 in February), and the only reason that I could see my self wanting sponsors if I wanted to get my name out there asap, if I was looking into fishing in some of the big name tournaments. But inorder to get your name out there, youd probly have to be a great fisherman, im good, but im not great, and for now, its for fun. Fish now, think later.

I think this is completely true. I am a few years younger than you, (13), and I think that is the reason I would want a sponsor. For right now though it is just for fun. gettin' out there and getting practice. I am a part of the BASSMASTER youth program, so I am eligable to compete in tournaments. I really think that I will want to get sponsors later, and keep fishing with my dad and older brothers til I get better.  8-)

[ChazfromVA]

Well i particularly dont feel the "NEED for sponsors" but i feel having a few would help me pursue a career in professional Bass fishing. When you fish as much as as many of us younger generation anglers do, you really want someone to recognize what you have accomplished. I personally feel that sponsors could help jumpstart a young, up-and-coming pro like myself. Free product really isn't an incentive to me. That will more than likely come with time. Its the fact that you want your self confidence boosted when your at a tournament and you want people to know that your a well accomplished fisherman avidly seeking a career in Bass fishing. Thats my personal opinion.

[etommy28]

I see where a lot of people come from, I am 19 and have several minor sponsors for my self and my College club, I never had this need when u fished just club tournies, but with things like college tournies, I have to get some other way to pay to travel to all the tournies, it is simply not possible for me to pay out of pocket. Especially on trips where I have to drive over a 1000 miles either way and say several nights.

[bassinfla82]

I cant really say how it is to gain deals in fishing.. It is my first love of Sports but as I finished high school I had contracts waiting on me to sign in PRO bowling.. As a youth I had AVGS of 240+ over 140 games 3 straight years in a row.. I totally ruled YABA.. I wouldnt even bowl scratch events anymore because It got to be not a game and I became VERY board with it. I knew I wanted to bowl for a living so I signed a deal with Track Bowling and Dexter shoes.. Before I knew what i was getting my self in to... I was under contract to bowl 7 days a week unless I was on tour and had to travel and I had to have Desk people at bowling alleys sign a form letting my sponsors know that I was bowling and wearing the LOGO... I still till this day bowl on the PBA tour 8th year doing so.. 7 years of that FULL TIME I got so tired of the game I loved so much that I had to change my life TOTALLY to do what I did and in the end I hate bowling... and only do it because I cant find a job that will pay me as high.. This is not saying anything about Sponsors for fishing... and I probably shouldnt even post this here... However all Im getting at by saying this is I wonder is being a BASS touring PRO are much work as the PBA tour is? and are the Sponsors as hard on their pros as mine are on me? I would love to go PRO in this sport but to tell you the truth Im scared because I love bass fishing and I dont want to grow to hate it as i have bowling.

[JT Bagwell]

This thread is still generating some very interesting feedback.

JT Bagwell

[greg516]

To answer your question Mr. Bagwell, I don't want sponsors. I would rather get my name out there by working my arse off fishing and earning the respect rather than it "given" to me cause I have sponsor. I am 17 and I am on a pro-staff. It don't mean crap tho, it just means I know how to catch fish and know what im talking about.... But I am still learning.

[etommy28]

I personally dont really care about sponsor while i say that, I would like to get some for one very simple reason, cost. any help i get right now owould be fantastic, i drive about 1000 to 2000 miles per month to fish tournaments. so this gets very pricy. iknow I can fish with most any one. I qualified for 5 jrstate championship and have been fishing agianst adults and beating adults from time to time, since I was 14 I know I can fish which is good enough for me. IT JUST A MONEY PROBLEM.