my first sponsor

[dar72]

I am looking to obtain my first sponsor. The last year I started fishing the B.F.L as a co.angler. I have fished plenty of club, and open type tournaments over the yrs. But I am ready to move forward with my dream. I started talking last yr with some Pro Staff guys at boat shows, convention etc, and was directed to the co. angler, with a pro to build experience at that level. I enjoyed the partial schedule that I fished last yr. with the pro,s. This yr I plan on fishing the entire schedule, and as many opens as a boater that I can. I am in no hurry to have 15 sponsors at this time, but I do want to get started in understanding the job. I have dreamed of fishing at a competitive level my whole life, I have raised my children into very fine adults, and would like to get started on the next chapter in my life. I am looking for advise on, say just obtaining my first or second bait co sponsor, or any of my favorite products. I understand that there is a duty to them, for there help. Any ideas would be great!   

[Nelsonv1975]

First thing is put you a great fishing resume together. Most everyone will want your fishing career in resume form to have on file. Make sure they know what you'll do for them in return. Remember its a partnership. Then you have to do a lot of emailing and calling.  Make sure you're very familiar with the products your wanting to be sponsored from. Good luck!!

[dar72]

Thanks for your repley. I understand the resume, part or at least putting my fishing career in order. I guess the one thing I am not sure of, is what to offer to the manufactuers. I dont want to make unrealistic goals. I would love a couple examples. I do how ever have a couple manufactuers in mind. I have been very loyal to 5 or 6 bait companies, over the years. I think good suggestions go a long way. Last year was the first yr. that I fished with the pro's. I was fortunate to gain some good knowledge, but fishing the tournament was main priority. I realy want this to work, but I know to play at this level I must acquire all the help, (good relationships) that I can get. Thanks looking forward to any suggestions?

[Nelsonv1975]

What it boils down to is can you help them advertise and maybe increase sales while doing it. Get your buddies to buy the baits, mention the baits any chance you get, try to get those baits in local tackle shops that don't carry them. You tube videos of you fishing the baits is a great way to advertise for your sponsors. Maybe this will help some.

[Mike Cork]

Check out this part of the Ultimate Bass site. It's part of the article section of the site.

http://www.ultimatebass.com/bass-fishing-articles/angler-how-to.html

I wrote three articles specifically about how to make yourself more visible and more appealing to a sponsor.

"Sponsorship and local media"
"How to get Sponsored, internet visibility"
"Catching Bass Fishing Sponsors"