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Pro Staff Question - How Hard Do I Have To Work To Become A Professional Fisherman
Charles "The Bass Doctor" Stuart's Answer
Hi Tyler!
If you are serious about this, you must first begin by having a solid education behind you to support you if your fishing does not turn out to be all you hope for!
An education in fisheries management and biology would certainly help you understand the rudimentary pieces of the puzzle concerning fish and their habits and help you speak with confidence on fish and fishing.
Sponsors will look favorably upon someone who has an education and not just an urge to leave school!
Visit The Fishing Tackle Manufactures In Taiwan To Get An Edge
Many of the tackle items we use in the USA come from Taiwan.
You may want to investigate this a little further and perhaps arrange a few visits to some of the local factories.
When I was in the Far East working for the airline industry, I visited many factories in mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Explain to them that you intend to return to the USA and want to fish professionally.
I am sure they will listen to you, show you their factory and the processes they use to manufacture tackle and probably give you a few free samples!
Your edge over many others here in the US would be that you have visited the factories and have a basic understanding of the manufacturing process.
That should open the door to sponsors when you tell them you are willing to give seminars on the products etc.
That's a HUGE advantage to you!
Summing Up The Work You Need To Do To Become A Professional Fisherman
Here is your check list!
Continue your education!
Visit the factories while in Taiwan.
Write letters to the US companies whose products you have seen and you would like to use.
Come home to the US and begin the long road to paid sponsorship by working for one or two of the companies for free at shows and exhibitions, speak at local fishing derby's (especially for young people of your age and below) Could take a year or two!
Get your local government agencies to invite you to speak at their fishing days and get local press coverage!
If you have anytime left, go fish some tournaments!
Read my article called “So You Want To Turn Pro” to learn more about the work you may need to do.
Tight Lines!
Charles "The Bass Doctor" Stuart
BassonHook Pro Staff
