My steps to becoming a pro fisherman

For some, fishing can be used as survival, relaxation, or just a friendly pastime. However for me, I am making my lifelong dream become a reality. After having read several articles and including over 20 years of experience in fishing, I have come to the conclusion that it takes at a minimum of 6 steps to become a professional fisherman. Although I am not yet a full time professional fisherman, I am well on my way to achieving that status.

Some say that luck plays a big part in becoming a full time pro. I believe in luck however I also believe that luck is gained be preparedness (skill, time on water, effort, and experience). That is why it takes several years for a person to become a professional bass fisherman.

Here are my recommendations of steps for anyone that feels they would like to cast themselves into the professional fisherman waters.

1)      Start small. Don’t try and fish with the big boys just yet. Fish locally, enjoy the outdoors around you. It can be a lake, pond, river, or even a stream. Fish for the fun, but remember as much as you can to every minute detail.

2)      Local club- Look into a local club. If you don’t own a boat it is a great way to get on the water and meet new people along with learning new techniques. Also you will get to fish waters that you haven’t fished before.

3)      Look for bigger tournaments. These tournaments are generally a bit more costly to enter but are much more rewarding. You will learn from more experienced tournament contestants and this knowledge will eventually give you an edge in your future career endeavors. As the tournament levels go up, the intensity does as well. Some of these tournament circuits are your States Federation, BFL, and BASS open and weekend series.

4)      Get sponsors- In order to make it as a full time professional you will need sponsors. Although some sponsors can be very lucrative, they don’t come easy or often. Being a sponsored fisherman isn’t as easy as signing a contract and fishing. Most companies expect a return on their investment. It may be as simple as a few speaking engagements or as taxing as going out and selling their products. Whatever the case, remember that you work for them.

5)      Find a Mentor- this can be a professional fisherman or someone that you admire. Most professional fishing tournaments use a pro-am type of field. The boat owner is considered the professional and is fishing for a larger purse. The amateur or co-angler is fishing for the smaller, alternate purse. Many times, the alternate purse includes a boat, cash, or both. 

If you feel like these steps are possible. Go for it and give it your best shot. Good luck.