There are so many different types of "sponsorships" that you could talk
about them till the cows come home...it's all about advertising, and
participation. It's the participation that makes the difference for the
majority of anglers that have not hit the top in the sport yet, but are
still sought after by many of the various companies in the fishing
industry . My son does very well with his sponsors, but he
participates...does the shows, helps with catalogue layouts, lure and
rod designs, accepts interviews, and promotes the sponsors products when
it's appropriate. In several cases he is on staff with the sponsors
management. In return he is rewarded (paid) in different ways, he has
signature rods and lures that provide income, he has entry fees paid,
and is supplied with product. He also receives bonuses for tournament
wins...the larger the win, the larger the bonus. There are also outright
payments for "advertisements", and show appearances. John understands
that the sponsor is in business to make money, and for him to
participate in any profits that company enjoys, he must contribute to
those profits. In short...you are paid in accordance to your "work", not
too different than any other "job" g.

JK