ok im in east tn "white pine" and i cant seem to find any clubs, im wantin to try and start one for the guys with smaller boats just for everyone to out and have fun, how would one go about starting this gettin sponsors and all, i mean no i havent been in a club so yea it would be a learning expierance but i would to know and maybe get some ideas. Thanks for the help
Before you start thinking sponsors your going to need to get some members. Start by talking to folks at the ramp and on the water. Build a flyer with your contact info on it and see if your local tackle stores will let you put it in their stores. Get at least 8-10 guys together and then have an eat and meet to discuss the possible club, it's goals, and maybe line out some rules and have your first tournament. Once you get a few folks, they will know folks and before long you will have a club going. Start now while it's still winter.
Mike said it right man.
There are a couple of clubs here in Delaware that have organized at the small club lelvel and have had great success. We're a small state and needless to say, very small ponds throughout. Most of these clubs hold lunker only tournaments and some use a 3-fish limit. Keeps it competitive.
You'll want to follow Mike's advice about starting up. Make contact with fishermen in your area at tackle shops and such. When i formed my club i even went to the newspapers to advertise, and had a small article written on the club in the local newspaper and they members came calling. there are alos a number of free internet sites you can use...eteamz.com is one of them.
To run a small club for fun, i wouldn't be so concerned about getting sponsors. The members can pay an annual or monthly dues to the club for funds to operate. Our club members pay $15/month, or they can pay $150 for the year by March and get two months free! Dues covers any expenses the club would incur such as club shirts/hats, materials for your youth club and conservation projects etc. We also go on a club trip every year as well. Typically club pays for cabins for 3-4 days, and fish the whole time, its good fun and the guys are great! Of course if you gain a sponsor then that's even better!
I'd be happy to help with any other questions and get you started. I have tournament rules, club by-laws, etc, to get you going.
Check us out at www.eteamz.com/easternshorebassmasters (http://www.eteamz.com/easternshorebassmasters)
smaller pond clubs at:
www.doverbassclub.com
www.basstalker.webs.com
www.bluerockbassassociation.googlepages.com