February 06, 2025
With the big changes in the sport of tournament bass fishing, some participants are contemplating where they fit in. More so, how they’ll survive. Competitive angling today isn’t what it once was, for sure, leaving holes in many plans.
Sure, in order to become a professional touring angler – meaning a tournament participant whose business plan revolves around competition – you’ll need to become well-adept at the best way to cash checks. Offshore, sonar-based fishing is where it’s at.
If that’s not your game, however, there are still ways to earn a living through bass fishing without relying solely on the most popular model.
I remain intrigued by this. Through the course of history, there has always been a contingent of anglers who have figured out a way to get paid without being dominating competitors. Initially, it was often through media attention and hard work paralleling the competitive scene. Bernie Schultz comes to mind. Here’s a guy who’s never won on tour, yet remains incredibly visible. He’s a hustler, plain and simple, always has been and is known to be. Are you?
Today the model is more based on influence and social media. My Facebook feed is filled with some guy that I’ve never heard of giving tips. Evidently, he’s the world’s best bass fisherman. He seems to have it all figured out, delivering a first-hand account of an “epic” adventure, fueled by his “best-ever lures” almost daily. Truthfully, I don’t know when he has time to fish.
Less abrasive are anglers who really are out there doing it, but realizing that the key to their success lies in content. Some fish tournaments, others don’t. One thing is for certain: if you have a passion for any key category of fishing, there will be a following for that when portrayed correctly. You’ll need to commit, and become versed at photography and video editing. It’s never been easier, but may take a bit of investment. I’ve got a guy on my Instagram who does nothing but fish for catfish from the bank. His videos are strike-to-catch, followed by him admiring and holding a big-bellied whisker. He’s outrageously genuine, and likely makes good money from social media platforms. No boat. No forward-facing sonar. No 18-dollar ChatterBait.
What’s your catfish?
There’s the ultimate fishing businessman/woman approach, too. A few weeks ago, I again shared a bit about my kayak-fishing hero, Drew Gregory. While Gregory continues to occupy the top competitive spot in his sport, make note of his tournament income. For his last big win, Gregory took home a whipping $7,000. That’s just where the sport of kayak fishing is.
So how does a guy like Gregory earn a good living? He runs wild with business opportunities centering around kayak fishing. He was the first to design and capitalize on a signature brand of boats. He formerly hosted an adventure-based television show. Today, he runs the most advanced tournament circuit around, complete with hometown festivals, music and vendors. Supporters include Realtree, GoPro and Toyota.
Drew Gregory is so busy, he even talks fast. But that’s his jam. Kayaks, adventure, rivers, America. His brand is synonymous with those traits, and sponsors pay the bills. What does your brand represent?
I can’t help but also mention Kristine Fischer. Here’s a person who has built her brand on the trials and tribulations of a being a woman obsessed with fishing. Never once has it been about “girl stuff” or fashion or an appeal to men. Fischer’s M.O. has always been empowerment, humility and love for the outdoors. Again, household-name brands align with her more so than they do with many competitive anglers. They recognize that Fischer brings something to the table that the others can’t. What can you bring to the table?
And let’s not forget guiding. For those who simply live and breathe time on the water, and can connect that appeal to others, guiding can be a very lucrative business. A buddy of mine runs the premier big bass guide service in central Florida. Last I heard, he was booked almost a year out. He fishes 300 days annually and draws a good rate for this part of the country. Why? Because he’s totally legit, catches monsters, and posts regularly on his social media. Those posts are filled with nothing but optimism and an unmistakable love for his greatest passion – giant Florida bass. Yet, for every guy like him, there are 10 who never make it.
The difference? Authenticity.
What does that for you?
(Joe Balog is the often-outspoken owner of Millennium Promotions, Inc., an agency operating in the fishing and hunting industries. A former Bassmaster Open and EverStart Championship winner, he's best known for his big-water innovations and hardcore fishing style. He's a popular seminar speaker, product designer and author, and is considered one of the most influential smallmouth fishermen of modern times. )
