As an angler, we all grow up seeing sponsored competitors from every circuit. We idolize them, we follow them on every social media site and we desire to be them one day. Some of us do this because we want to be at that level and others because it gives a small break to what it costs our piggy banks, but no matter the reason, we strive to get there.
What does being sponsored really mean?:
It means that the sponsored angler will promote the company and its products in a positive manner. Yes, this includes you, the angler, and how you carry yourself publicly and on social media sites! It means you will put in the hours to get pictures with new baits, rods, gear or sportswear. It means you will write blogs, articles, andposts to social media sites as well as discuss directly with other anglers how the sponsored product has helped you to succeed. When doing this, there are ways to do it correctly and ways to do it incorrectly. Avoid the approach of shoving it down others’ throats by over posting as well as avoid the attitude that “if you don't use this product, you will not succeed.” Instead, try “I can't thank my sponsors enough because...” or just hashtag photos with your normal talk in it. This approach allows the reader to connect with your company without the feeling of being told they have to.
What does a sponsorship give the angler?:
Well, this varies widely across the board. Some companies offer discounts, while others supply product at no cost to the angler. The company’s expectations should be laid out and clearly defined in a contract, most being a year at a time. Make sure to go over this contract closely,so you know what's expected from you as well as what to expect from them.
How do you get sponsors?
This can be done in many ways as well. It can be from talking about the product consistently, winning tournaments with the product, or meeting owners. However, being a good promoter is the fastest way to earn a sponsorship. Earning a prostaff position takes knowledge about the company and product as well as timespent using and promoting of the product. Remember that while being a prostaff member or sponsored angler is very rewarding, it is also very time consuming.
Do’s and Don’ts?:
Don't email every company there is and ask them to sponsor you. Don't put on your social media sites you want to be sponsored or on sponsored anglers posts to hook you up. Don't talk about every rod company, bait company, sunglasses company, etc and how they all are the best.
Keep your social media clean, free of trashy posts, political propaganda and family friendly. As stated before you represent the company of you are or get sponsored.Pick the companies you truly believe in and stick with them. Do send a quality resume with pictures. Focus on what you can do for the company, how you will do it but most important actually do it. Despite what you may realize the fishing community is very small and news travels fast of folks who just want hand outs. Do what you say you can do and always come up with new ways to spotlight the company.
These are some of the things I have learned along the way that I truly hope will guide other anglers to where they hope to be in the sport. There's a big difference between sponsorship and being paid as a professional, so think hard about what is best for you before deciding which route you would like to go. I have been and currently am blessed with great sponsors and cannot thank them enough for the support they have given me on my journey.
Until next time
Tight Lines and Screaming Reels
EasTNKayakAngler
John Champion
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