For everyone I know, a sponsorship was not a one-way street. For boat
deals, the angler got a discounted rate on the boat. A very good deal, but
it was just the boat. Usually the representative for the engine company
also offered a deal. Again, not a free boat, not a free engine, but a very
good deal. The angler was expected to promote those products. Work shows
and wear company logos. That also meant dressing nice and looking good.

I know guys who have never won a tournament that get these deals, because
they fit the image and are willing to work nearly every weekend in the off
season promoting the products they use. The more visible you are, the
better the deals. The more time you can spend on-camera, to be shown on TV,
the better for you and your sponsors.

There is a lot of hot air out there too. I have heard a lot of that.
Usually from guys that never work the shows. They were told they were being
given a real good deal on a boat, just to sell the boat. That they could
think of it as a sponsorship. That type of selling inflates some folks egos
and loosens their pocketbooks.

Good dealers can only do so much when it comes to sponsoring an angler. If
they are given some free or discounted tackle, they can spread that around a
bit. What they really have the power to do is to make introductions. If
you show the potential, the willingness and desire. If you fit the image.
You might get introduced to the factory reps that can help you, if they are
looking for someone at that time.

Carlos