How to put a "Tourney Schedule" together best??

I want to expand my fishing, by getting sponsors (and have a couple interested parties) but I have never put a schedule together for a year (being only in the sport a VERY little while). I need to be able to show where/when/how I will be fishing to benifit them, and have to fish in certain areas (including different states for some sponsors), but how? Is it best to fish just certain "series" and toss in a couple of "opens" they have, or what? Any help would be appreciated. thanks.

Rob Appleby
502-689-5528

PS. I am a "co-angler" so I have to be able to ensure I CAN fish the places I go since I do not have a dedicated partner to fish with. Since I am unemployed, and disabled, the timeframe of the tourney's (starting during the week this is) are not a big issue for me. But I also do not get to practice at all since I do not have that "dedicated partner" to fish with to, heck if I did it would be a LOT easier to get the people I am working on to part with more money though. It is what it is and I gotta go with what I got so.....thanks again.

The first thing you need to know about attrcating a sponsor is that most don't care as much about how your tourney results are (although being good gets you a lot more money). They mainly want to know what can you do for them as far as moving product. Agreeing to work boat shows etc.s promoting their product is one way you can help them. Make sure you project a good clean cut image etc. Spornosrships are all about marketing, advertising and moving product off the shelves.

I agree with Tim T. They arent paying you to go WIN tournaments, they are paying to push pruduct. Some businesses may expect more than others. Boat shows, siminars, speaking about products and how they help you. Some products may be fishing related and others may not. You Must sell yourself as a salesperson.

TAXES::: this is for your other post. These funds are tax deductable to a point. My CPA told me that I could list myself as a professional angler for 3 years on my taxes. He said things that were duductable, Mileage (to and from) tournaments, baits and tackle and even the mileage to go get them, out of town expenses(food and lodging). There are many more to list. You have to keep very good records of expenses and winnings. Because Uncle Sam is going to want his cut when you win. Some groups like the BFL may even deduct the taxes for you.

I recommend that you contact a good CPA and a pro-angler that wouldnt mind sharing info on how to get started. Good Luck!