One of the world’s most prized activities is fishing. In America specifically, bass fishing is super popular for sport and leisure. If you are an angler already, you know how much passion, thought, and skill go into bass fishing.
One of the best ways to elevate the love for the sport to another level is by doing it professionally. Not everyone has what it takes to get paid full-time as an angler, but there are some steps you can take to elevate your skills and be compensated for it. That is by getting bass fishing sponsors.
What are fishing sponsors?
Bass fishing sponsorships are deals with individuals or companies to promote a brand or product. The sponsors are the ones who are initiating the deal. Seems pretty simple, right? There is more to it, but this is the basic idea.
Those sponsors have products or services that need to be sold. So, they will sign advertising deals with you to promote whatever they want. Sponsors, at the highest level, buy out certain aspects of your identity as a professional, and in turn, you get paid. For example, if you look at a professional bass angler’s truck or boat, it is littered with logos and companies. These are all sponsors that pay a pretty penny for that advertising.
At the lowest level, bass fishing sponsors could work with amateur anglers and social media influencers to do the same thing. If you have a big enough social presence, you can grab the attention of sponsors who want a piece of the action you bring to the table.
What can they do for me?
There are two main things that you can get from sponsorships; money and products. At the highest professional level, both are usually offered. Kevin VanDam is paid by Lews to use and advertise their products while also being supplied with the rods and reels themselves.
Not all deals are this inclusive, and there is a wide range of sponsorship opportunities. At the lower level, you may get free or discounted items. There is a big gap between the top and the bottom, with several options in the middle.
How can I get them?
Now, the big question is, how can you get sponsorships for bass fishing? It all comes down to influence, talent, and hard work. Because there is a spectrum of sponsorship opportunities, there is no cut-and-dry answer.
In today’s day and age, influence goes a long way. Do you have a lot of followers online? Can you relay a product to the masses? These aspects are factored in.
Talent and hard work are grouped together. You need to be at least pretty good at fishing. You definitely do not need to be the best, but you have to portray brands and products in a positive light through your skills. Once you can grind your way into a good position, it comes down to building relationships with brand representatives and getting into the business.
FAQ
How does a fisherman get sponsored?
A fisherman can get sponsored by reaching out to fishing-related companies and demonstrating their passion and expertise for the sport. Sponsorship opportunities may also come from participating in fishing tournaments and building a reputation as a skilled angler. It’s also helpful to have a strong social media presence to showcase your fishing skills and reach a wider audience.
How much do fishing sponsors pay?
The amount that fishing sponsors pay can vary greatly depending on the company, the angler’s level of skill and reputation, and the type of sponsorship agreement. Some sponsors may provide gear or equipment in exchange for the angler using their products, while others may provide monetary compensation.
Who is Kevin VanDam sponsors?
Kevin VanDam is sponsored by several companies, including Busch Beer, Nitro, Mercury Marine, Toyota, Strike King, Mustad, Plano, MinnKota, Lew’s, Bass Pro Shops, Humminbird, Oakley, D&R Sports, Hydrowave, and more.
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Updated: February 9, 2023
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