Hamner to speak at NPAA conference

Reigning Bassmaster Classic champion Justin Hamner will be a featured speaker at the National Professional Anglers Association 2025 Annual Conference, will take place Jan. 3-4 at the Chula Vista Resort and Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

“We are really looking forward to our 16th annual conference,” said NPAA president Patrick Neu. “This year’s gathering is designed to help sportfishing industry professionals focus on what they need to do to 'Rise Above The Noise' in today’s content-driven world. The conference promises to provide attendees with a deeper, more realistic understanding of what it takes to be successful on a professional level in this industry.”

The conference agenda includes in-depth educational seminars presented by two anglers who are at the peak of their game on and off the water, the NPAA annual business meeting, partner booths and breakouts sessions. In addition to the planned activities, the conference provides the opportunity to network with industry pros and other NPAA members at Friday’s Meet & Greet Party, Saturday’s networking lunch, and the Future Angler Foundation Benefit Banquet Saturday night.

The 2025 event will zero-in on how to be successful as a tournament angler, influencer or captain/guide in the sportfishing industry. Headlining Saturday’s schedule are featured speakers Hamner and 2024 National Walleye Tour Championship winner Tom Huynh.

“I want to be brutally honest with everyone who has the same dreams I had about becoming a pro angler,” says Hamner. “I didn’t come from money or have insight as to what it would take to be successful in this business. All I had was a love for this sport and a burning desire to do everything necessary to reach my dream. It wasn’t easy getting here, but I’m proof it’s possible.

“There are numerous strategies to achieve success in this industry, but much of it boils down to humility, building relationships and putting in the work others aren’t willing to do. I’ll be sharing what I believe needs to happen for your dreams to become reality.”

For more information or to register for the conference, visit www.NPAA.net.

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