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There will be some new faces coming to the Bassmaster Elite roster from Opens and other B.A.S.S. platforms this fall.
They will be experienced tournament anglers for sure, but they are stepping into a platform unlike anything they’ve ever experienced.
Without question, the Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments not only provide the biggest stage in bass fishing but also the most prestigious.
That’s why it’s important for new Elite anglers to realize – and any angler aspiring to fish the Elites – that getting here is hard, but being successful on and off the water at this level is just as hard as it is rewarding.
There is a misconception that just because you qualified for bass fishing’s highest level that big money is going to fall out of the sky and hit you on the head.
That rarely happens.
B.A.S.S. provides the platform to make a living at fishing, but that doesn’t mean you will.
You have to work at it. I mean, really work at it.
Not only will you be competing on the water against the greatest anglers in the sport, but you’re the new guy who needs precious sponsorship dollars to help you survive financially until you prove yourself.
That means building your brand, be it through social media, YouTube, working with the press and busting your butt for the sponsorships you have.
It doesn’t matter how big or little they are, they’re not paying you to catch fish, but to represent them with a strong presence and help them sell product.
Look at the guys who have solid sponsors, and you will see they work tirelessly after hours and during the offseason building their online presence and video libraries and those of their sponsors.
They also work closely with dealers, especially those who carry their sponsored products, be it through fishing advice or in-store appearances.
Those efforts get noticed.
Sponsors consider you a partner, and regardless of how much or little they pay you, you need to seize that opportunity. It could open more financial opportunities with that company in the future and make you more visible to other companies who may be interested in adding you to their pro teams.
Having said that, it’s pertinent to align yourself with products you believe in. That makes them easier to promote, makes you a more credible spokesperson and increases your value to that sponsor.
So, don’t be a guy who jumps around with sponsors. Loyalty is important, and it gets noticed.
Remember that you’re being watched even when you don’t know it, be it through Bassmaster TV cameras or social media outlets.
If you’re fortunate enough to get a TV camera in your boat on tournament day, seize that opportunity to share with viewers your pattern and how you are fishing.
If you’re willing to share solid information, viewers will remember you and so will TV producers who invest more on-air time with anglers who provide a quality on-camera experience.
And of course, remember that you’re no longer just a tournament guy. You’re a professional and need to act and look the part.
That’s a topic I will cover in my next blog. It’s one that will help you enhance your value to sponsors and the sport of professional bass fishing.