All of these experiences can help build an impressive portfolio. Your portfolio should include your resume and references. Any clippings, articles or other documentation of your efforts should be included in the pages of a good portfolio.
Once you have the tools demonstrating your dedication, you next need to find the sponsors. Sponsorship can come in all forms. Some sponsors have the means to donate fishing gear. Others offer monetary support.
When you are starting out as a professional angler, you should start small with sponsors as well. Contact the local businesses in your area. Businesses that know you personally are usually more willing to offer you assistance.
There are many companies that make a habit of sponsoring anglers. Check out the sponsor boards at tournaments as well as the competition's sponsors. Do some research and find out what form of sponsorship these companies typically give.
Some companies are happy with their name displayed on boats and apparel. Other companies are more interested in putting their products to work on the water. Once you know what these companies like to do, you can write a letter specifically geared toward them.
Your letter needs to be a professional introduction of who you are. Be clear with your plans and intentions. Mention both your experience and the level of tournaments that you hope to compete in.
If you get the opportunity to meet with a potential sponsor, make sure you are prepared. Bring along an up-to-date portfolio. Also take the time to draw out a plan for your sponsor. The plan needs to cover all the ways that you will promote their name or product. Sponsors want to know how helping you will benefit them. To paraphrase John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your sponsor can do for you but what you can do for your sponsor".
Once you have sponsors you need to keep them. The best way to do this is to win. A winning competitor looks like a good investment to sponsors. Make sure that you send copies of clippings, prizes and any other accolades to sponsors as you compete. This will help cement your position with them.
Hitting the professional walleye circuit takes more than simple desire. You need experience and dedication to put you out ahead of the competition. Sponsors can help you get there financially, but your skills and commitment are the keys to keeping you there.
