What the "PROS" don't tell you about the Fishing Industry

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  • Опубликовано: 8 июл 2024
  • In this video I talk about my experience with the fishing industry as a professional angler on the Bassmaster Elite Series. I talk about my struggles and what life is like for me.

Комментарии • 835

  • @mikeybalzz
    @mikeybalzz 8 месяцев назад +241

    I remember having this conversation with you 4 years ago man down at 44 tackle when you first jumped on the Elite Series. It's always been about marketing and branding but I think the trick is the pros don't have a monopoly on it anymore so those dollars in sponsorships are spread out a lot more across the board. You'll make this thing happen you're a great fisherman and your brand of honesty goes a long way in the current environment filled by so much BS. Keep at it bro.

    • @darrylcoats1676
      @darrylcoats1676 8 месяцев назад +9

      class act for the support to you and boggs

    • @scottfrost8956
      @scottfrost8956 7 месяцев назад +4

      Absolutely agree! I don’t know Jason but this man is refreshing!

    • @sambello1105
      @sambello1105 7 месяцев назад +3

      Mikey, your a stand up guy. See you and Boggs next year at Lanier.

    • @colt110987
      @colt110987 7 месяцев назад +3

      Great words from a great fisherman!!

    • @MrScott7040
      @MrScott7040 7 месяцев назад +1

      Good , words at the right time .

  • @Zaldaingerous
    @Zaldaingerous 8 месяцев назад +339

    You just made the first move in building a brand.

    • @TheAverageFisherman99
      @TheAverageFisherman99 8 месяцев назад +5

      This is what I came to say

    • @RedsFishin
      @RedsFishin 8 месяцев назад +17

      I get your point @zaldaingerous but I think you missed Jacob's point. He doesn't want to be a salesman or social media guru. It sucks that you can't make a living as an angler at the biggest level in fishing. Hopefully, someday it will become a professional sport.

    • @bamadondon0495
      @bamadondon0495 8 месяцев назад +7

      ​@@RedsFishinYOU HAVE to make your own brand.. that's just the way the sport has moved. Sponsors want you promoting and making content on your down time or time in between!!!! The more you put your face and your voice out there the more you begin the build your brand. And the sport has ALREADY went that way and they're DEFINITELY NOT GOING BACKWARDS!!!! You build your own brand you have a better chance of brands wanting to work with you!!!! The bottom line has to make sense for big brands to dance with you as an angler.. this is how you build your brand!! Like it or not but this is where the sport is now. Better to jump in all the way than halfway and hope it sways back the way it was! Not gonna happen... So Chris was right on point when he said he had made the first move building his OWN BRAND.. GOTTA BE ACTIVE ON SOCIALS!!

    • @cjknight7391
      @cjknight7391 8 месяцев назад +11

      Don’t hold
      Back like most of the pros. You have nothing to lose apparently. Tell the TRUTH about “living the dream”. Your brand will grow because of your honesty

    • @PHATBASSASSASSIN
      @PHATBASSASSASSIN 8 месяцев назад +2

      Bass pro and battle born need people like him and you Chris hope he gets help from this. Just gained alot of respect or you Jacob

  • @MillikenFishing
    @MillikenFishing 7 месяцев назад +7

    It's not EASY for anyone. I sold $200k of my 6th Sense Milliken rods on their site alone this year, and I can't even get a DISCOUNT from Shimano or Daiwa. That's just lazy, outdated marketing, which is prevalent in the industry.
    But on your end, do you fault brands in the industry for spending their marketing budgets on guys that sell more product than others? If your job was an owner of a smaller company in the industry, and just like you as an angler, had to meet a bottom line to put food on the table for your family....would you spend your hard earned/limited money on Elite Series angler "A" that will sell you $450 worth of product in 2024, or would you spend it on Influencer angler "B" that would sell you $14,000 worth of product in 2024? A lot of what you said isn't wrong at all, just playing devils advocate. As someone that is on both sides of the fence, I know damn well Elite Series guys barely move the needle with sales. Whose fault is that? The angler doesn't have a large enough brand to promote the products to a large audience? B.A.S.S. doesn't do enough to promote the angler or give them coverage when they're using said products? The fact that the angler signed up to pay $45k plus travel expenses prior to making a cast, KNOWING they won't get any help financially OR from the industry media to grow their brand? All of the above..?
    There's a lot that's wrong financially with the industry/marketing right now. A lot of that is because in the last 3 years the large majority of companies have sold to private equity corporate conglomerates. With that- anglers, marketing managers, and everyone else in the operations side of the company, becomes dollar signs on a spreadsheet to help meet a bottom line by a corporation that could give 2 shits about fishing. Worse yet (for these companies, not mine) we're about to see what happens when all those greedy PE's that saw the boom in the outdoor industry during COVID, are met with a recession. Going to be a lot more shaking up the next 3 years than the last 3.

  • @user-ob1te9jl4l
    @user-ob1te9jl4l 8 месяцев назад +74

    When a quiet person speaks, listen. It takes someone like you to actually speak up!! Keep being yourself brother! The real will recognize and the fakes will hate and always be there!!!!!

  • @robertnapier6063
    @robertnapier6063 8 месяцев назад +80

    Jacob, thank you for sharing this. A real life look into life as a Elite pro fisherman holds more value than you might think. All we see is brand new boats and brand new trucks. We don’t see the reality of it. The hard times. No sponsor money, no gas money, struggling just to break even. Thank you for your honesty. This video may be viewed by some as a venting session but in my eyes, you may have just saved many other aspiring professional fisherman from financial distress by sharing your experience.

  • @jeffmcbeth3850
    @jeffmcbeth3850 8 месяцев назад +82

    Hard to believe people in the industry don’t want to hear the truth !!! Proud of you kid !!

  • @edwardcowan7012
    @edwardcowan7012 8 месяцев назад +78

    I fished my first pro event in 1984 (BASS Invitational) and fished about 50 pro and AAA level events between 1984 and 2007. I never did it full time but managed to make 2 Classics and turned down an Elite invite. Fishing tournaments is a great hobby and a lousy business. 30 years ago you could fish the highest level if you had a decent job/business. The tournaments were $600, they had 6 a year and boats were under 20K. I had offers for memo boats when I was fishing Red Man and the BASS Federation on the weekends. I think it was a lot easier to get sponsors back than primarily because there were a lot of small companies in the industry. All the smaller lure, tackle and boat companies have been bought up by a couple big corporations and all there sponsorship deals go to a couple of the biggest names. I’ve seen to many guys end up broke and bitter. Look at it as a business and make the best decision for yourself, I would hate to see you end up hating fishing.

    • @winstonrocco1981
      @winstonrocco1981 8 месяцев назад +6

      Think this kid really needs advice from someone like you kind of put everything in perspective

    • @juleswinnfield826
      @juleswinnfield826 8 месяцев назад +12

      Freaking Nailed it. Irwin Jacobs and Boyd Duckett are 2 folks that have poisoned Derby fishing.... thats a dam_ shame.
      "The Dream" of being a pro derby fisherman is nothing more than smoke/mirrors for guys like Irwin Jacobs and Boyd Duckett to make money off a Angler's "Hopes & Dreams"
      I can only hope thats this young man can find peace one day.

    • @joelaurino1230
      @joelaurino1230 8 месяцев назад +3

      Ed Cowan you’re a legend a real bass fisherman. Was an honor fishing on the NY state team with you in 09’. One of the good guys in this joke of a sport

    • @rangerbull
      @rangerbull 8 месяцев назад +3

      I go back a tad farther fishing in Late 70’s in National Bass Association. 500 entry and 500 gas lodging and food. Still had bills at home so had to sites back to federation tournaments.

    • @edwardcowan7012
      @edwardcowan7012 8 месяцев назад

      @@joelaurino1230 thanks, those Divisional’s were great events!

  • @xxfurydxxgaming5963
    @xxfurydxxgaming5963 8 месяцев назад +22

    Honestly listening to this and hearing that sponsors pulled their support over it genuinely make me want to have a list of them so I can ensure me and my group of fishing buddies never support them. Nothing in this video was out of line. Shame on these companies

  • @craiglivingston5441
    @craiglivingston5441 8 месяцев назад +54

    Hands down the most honest and humble video I’ve every seen in professional bass fishing and I watched a ton of fishing channels and pros channels. Excellent video Mr Jacob I appreciate your 100 percent honesty. Keep at it and good luck this next year!!

  • @NUTTZ1019
    @NUTTZ1019 7 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks for sharing man! The honesty is greatly apreciated and I hope you can create enough wake to help get the balance that the sport needs. Keep doing you, theres alot of us out there rooting for you!

  • @johna.9742
    @johna.9742 8 месяцев назад

    Thank you for the honesty. Will be looking forward to future videos from you. Good luck.

  • @DianeVerzella
    @DianeVerzella 8 месяцев назад +34

    Takes an incredible amount of courage and ethics to be honest to the public about your livelihood.
    You are an upstanding guy and proud to know you.
    Will always have our support.

  • @ivymoore2368
    @ivymoore2368 7 месяцев назад +4

    You gained a fan and my respect with me man. I appreciate you keeping it real and can tell you really just want it to be about the fishing, not the influences based stuff. Looking forward to seeing you grow in the sport. We all got your back. So it all make since.

    • @davidcrump2348
      @davidcrump2348 7 месяцев назад

      Don’t get discouraged brother. Hold your head up.

  • @dhigdon7698
    @dhigdon7698 7 месяцев назад +1

    This is as real as real can be.All these Youngsters need to hear this.Thanks for Your Honesty.

  • @nwdanie
    @nwdanie 8 месяцев назад

    Thanks for the truth! I know it’s a rough road! Good luck and push the brands that support you and the sport!

  • @OutdoorAssasin3167
    @OutdoorAssasin3167 7 месяцев назад

    Your honesty is worth the most Keep your head up brother no matter what happens!

  • @JustJoshua73
    @JustJoshua73 7 месяцев назад

    Thank you for sharing this with everyone. Keep the faith and good luck whatever path you take.

  • @joevankilpatrick4010
    @joevankilpatrick4010 7 месяцев назад +9

    I was going to pursue fishing back in the early 90’s, but when I sat down and put pen to paper I couldn’t justify the expenses. But I still to this day am a fishing fanatic, and for the life of me I can’t fathom how you guys make it in fishing today. After listening to this, many realize now that a lot of guys are probably drowning in debt and asking themselves if it’s really worth it anymore. Enjoyed what you had to say, hope everything works out for you!👍

  • @timlawrence7246
    @timlawrence7246 7 месяцев назад

    Shared this to pump up the following. Thanks for the raw cut. This is what people relate to that really really love fishing.

  • @dustinmaccumbee8081
    @dustinmaccumbee8081 7 месяцев назад +1

    Glad to hear someone tell the truth, been waiting for this type of video for a long time. So many "professional bass anglers" can never just answer a yes or no type question, because of sponsorship I guess?
    Tackle tip videos, seasonal pattern videos, boat rigging/maintenance, electronics set up and on the water videos of your electronics and what you are seeing and looking for is what I like to watch.
    GOOD LUCK IN 2024. New subscriber!

  • @MrJohnB-qs6dp
    @MrJohnB-qs6dp 8 месяцев назад

    Thanks Jacob for sharing your thoughts & opinions. A lot of people think the "professional" gets everything and glad to see how you pointed it out that you don't. It's a struggle. I watched & heard other anglers say how hard it is to be on the "Pro Circuit". Keep your head up and do what you have to do to keep yourself afloat!!!! Stay Safe & God Bless!!

  • @silveiras5722
    @silveiras5722 7 месяцев назад +1

    You have a new fan and I'm always going to be pulling for you! Thanks for the honesty and you should be rewarded for it not punished.

  • @bmurr7
    @bmurr7 8 месяцев назад +33

    You gained a fan with me man. I appreciate you keeping it real and can tell you really just want it to be about the fishing, not the influencer based stuff. Looking forward to seeing you grow in the sport.

  • @reidhurston695
    @reidhurston695 8 месяцев назад

    I really hope you make it. You seem like a good guy. Thanks for sharing. Good luck, I am pulling for you!

  • @nickc8629
    @nickc8629 7 месяцев назад +2

    Keep chasing your dreams man, you are a heck of an angler. It’s sad the industry isn’t in a better place. Thanks for sharing.

  • @jerryevans9360
    @jerryevans9360 8 месяцев назад +19

    Straight truth and honesty. We need more of this in the world. You gained a supporter Jacob.

  • @Scrub_Zero
    @Scrub_Zero 8 месяцев назад +3

    This is an absolutely amazing video man. Wow. Brother I am rooting for you. This is an eye opener for me personally.

  • @goatboysouth39
    @goatboysouth39 8 месяцев назад +1

    Props on making this video. Appreciate the authenticity. Hope things turn around, keep the hammer down 👍🏻

  • @jeffgrope990
    @jeffgrope990 8 месяцев назад +5

    Great video man, it sucks to hear how tough it is in this sport and industry. Being a “professional” level angler/athlete and can’t make a living at it while these other sports are complete opposite and make millions. Keep your head up and keep the truth coming man! Hopefully something will turn around for you because you are a great angler!

  • @rjcornett179trx
    @rjcornett179trx 8 месяцев назад +4

    Keep your head up. Make your videos and your channel and your brand will come. It’s tough to hear but I think the fishing industry has changed in a way that will eventually hurt itself. Keep grinding man. Don’t quit. Especially if your on your own and can take care of you and that’s the main concern for you … keep the grind going. You got this man!🔥🔥🔥

  • @paulstuartwilson485
    @paulstuartwilson485 8 месяцев назад +1

    You've gained me as a fan and supporter just by being honest. I don't know anything about the bass fishing industry or any of the tournaments or anything like that. I enjoy fishing a tremendous amount and I go fishing as often as I can, but as far as the Elite series or anything like that, I have zero knowledge of that stuff. I've always been a huge fan of good values like honesty, integrity, honor, courage, and that kind of stuff. You, sir, have shown me that you have a deep dedication and drive to be an honest man and, for that, I applaud, commend, and congratulate you. If you are ever around the Lake Ouachita area in Arkansas, I would like to meet you and perhaps go fishing. I hope you achieve success in your chosen vocation. Hope you have a great day. 👍🇺🇸

  • @bassfishingchadhill
    @bassfishingchadhill 7 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks for telling the truth and putting yourself out there. I am older now and moved on, but always wanted to fish professionally or make a living fishing. I appreciate every word you've said. It even tough just to fish weekends and try to have fund. God bless you sir.

  • @brianjohnston1770
    @brianjohnston1770 8 месяцев назад +2

    Buddy, Your honesty got a follow from me. Looking forward to see you work through the struggle. You got this far, and that's an accomplishment and we wanna know about it. From the start. Social media is hard but, just like fishing you'll get better at it and the easier it will be to talk. Talking from the heart will get you a following as alot of people wanna see the reality of it. From there, you will grow you brand, your way. This video alone popped up on my RUclips feed so it's already an impact after a day.
    Pulling for you man! The tools are here! Take advantage!

    • @brianjohnston1770
      @brianjohnston1770 8 месяцев назад

      One last thing. This is the only sponsorship you need!

  • @clintdaniels1650
    @clintdaniels1650 8 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks from speaking from the heart and speaking how you feel. You didn't lose alot with the sponsor's that didn't stand behind you. Hopefully the right sponsor will see this and want someone that stands up and tells the truth. Good luck and prayers sent your way.

  • @boycegargus6608
    @boycegargus6608 7 месяцев назад

    You hit the nail on the head when you said..being good at catching bass is not the main factor in being successful at bass fishing. Keep doing this on you tube and guys like me who understand what your saying will start supporting you on you tube.

  • @joshgriffith9327
    @joshgriffith9327 8 месяцев назад +3

    Loved the video man, keep up the hard work. I love the video idea, i know for me I prefer the raw and uncut, " Day in the life" so to speak versus something that feels manufactured and produced. Hope everything works out for you in the end, love watching you fish the elites and hopefully you can look back oneday and see this is a starting point for things turning around dor you and your career.

  • @tonyperez3666
    @tonyperez3666 8 месяцев назад +1

    Great video! Appreciate your honesty and you pulling back the curtain on Pro fishing. Sounds brutal! I wish more pros would share the dark side of Pro fishing. Keep the videos coming. You'll get a following. Posting regular YT videos is super important.

  • @timmcc1044
    @timmcc1044 8 месяцев назад +11

    Hang in there Jake. Just subscribed and look forward to following your career. Sponsors will come, but you're right, you have to be on social media and play that game these days. Stay strong.

  • @davidmcdonaldfishing3018
    @davidmcdonaldfishing3018 8 месяцев назад +3

    Somebody sponsor this man!!!! Pay him I 100% understand and sympathize. I'm a fan already I subscribed. I've dreamed for 35 years to make the jump like you but never had the balls or finances. I feel you and support and will promote you I'm a instant fan.

  • @scottfrost8956
    @scottfrost8956 8 месяцев назад +1

    Jacob,
    I am now a new subscriber and supporter and I hope everyone else here is too.
    I’m a professional in another sport. You can do it man. Making this video is a monumental step in the right direction because you are being yourself. Unfortunately now days you need to market yourself and unfortunately social media is here to stay so I hope and pray that you can utilize this platform as a possible way to vent or relieve that inner quietness.
    Best of luck bud!

  • @Flippincz
    @Flippincz 7 месяцев назад

    Thank you❤. You have saved people the heart aches. The grass is dead on the other side. Catching bass and fishing is important. You can have a nice boat and truck without the tournaments with all the money you’ve spent and enjoy life without the pressure of the now new industry standards. I will eventually have all those nice material things without the BS. Thank you Jacob for your wisdom and experience. #loveyourdream

  • @tpparker5262
    @tpparker5262 8 месяцев назад

    With this, you've gained a new supporter. Watched you before this video. But I appreciate your honesty and relatability.

  • @jackyatwell6051
    @jackyatwell6051 8 месяцев назад +1

    You just gained a subscriber in me! I appreciate you keeping it real. Keep your head up and keep pushing. Your hard work and fishing skills will pay off in the end. At least your not a slave to your sponsors and throwing out a bunch of BS just to sell their shitty product. I have noticed over the past few years that a lot of the big time RUclipsrs pushing their sponsors products seem to always be fishing with something else on tournament day. Don’t think that goes unnoticed! The majority of us can see a sell out a mile away!!

  • @truepatriotoutfitters
    @truepatriotoutfitters 7 месяцев назад +2

    Thanks for the courage to speak your truth brother. Social media has had a major role in today's landscape but make no mistake, THIS very situation was brought up by many of the 1% anglers some 20 plus years ago. No major series wanted to deal with their concerns and it was addressed by the anglers when they left to form their own series. A while ago, you could be a top level angler with a side gig to pay the bills. Now, your side gig needs to be the primary and fishing becomes a benefit of the side gig. Best of luck man and remember, its a sport. Your future and mental health is more important than a sport.

  • @tackleboxbreakdown5116
    @tackleboxbreakdown5116 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks brother for having the back bone enough to be all the way real. Not just saying that your "real" truth in action is powerful. Go get em buddy. Pullin for ya man.

  • @marcusgreen6331
    @marcusgreen6331 8 месяцев назад

    Videos like this will give you a huge audience on RUclips it actually caught my attention and got me to subscribe this is the stuff we all want to know about the industry thanks for sharing your experience and i wish u the best of luck in your future endeavors

  • @mikemorris3388
    @mikemorris3388 7 месяцев назад

    Best fishing video that I have even seen. Heartfelt truth about becoming a professional bass angler. I hope it changes, I really enjoy this sport.

  • @randymcgee9176
    @randymcgee9176 8 месяцев назад

    You hit the nail on the head it’s all about the product every sport wants a you tube person to sell their products keep your head up and try to stay strong only the big brands are going to pay the angles who have several channels on the web it’s all about selling their product good luck. I just found your page and looking for more of your stories

  • @keithpowell2786
    @keithpowell2786 7 месяцев назад

    Than you brother for telling it like it really is, from us outside looking in it doesn’t look like this. You just took your first step in making it happen for you. Wishing the best for you brother

  • @Bamapride1000
    @Bamapride1000 7 месяцев назад

    You got a new subscriber and I’m gonna share everything you put out for us to help get your brand going my brother. I’m happy for you and have hella respect for you for the fight you’ve been fighting to make it to where you have. I know how hard it is to do this on a somewhat local level much less travel like you have. You’ve got a new fan in me. I do know a couple folks that have lots of contacts in the upper echelon of the fishing industry. Brother you’ve done what you was told would get you there and that big break just ain’t came your way yet but it’s coming. Someone is gonna see this and see the honesty in you and they’re gonna want that representing their brand. I feel like the stress and worry of the next check is holding you back on the water a lot. I wish you all the best.

  • @xongh
    @xongh 8 месяцев назад +2

    Most realist observation in the professional bass fishing industry I seen. To get to “pro,” level you have to fish great, once there you have to sell great now…. Make no sense. Thx jacob. Get em!!!!!!!

  • @kenjarvis2123
    @kenjarvis2123 7 месяцев назад

    Hang in there Jacob. As a kid I always wanted to be a pro bass fisherman as well. I knew it was tough but your story about how it really is needs to be told. I believe you 100% about how social media has changed the world and not all for the good!! I can see the passion in your face about how you feel about the sport but I can also see the frustration that comes from sometimes having your dream come true , but finding out that sometimes that dream is not what it seemed. Been there!!! I think and hope that you being up front , honest and raw that new sponsors will see that and say this is the kind of "salt of the earth" guy we need. A guy who just wants to fish and be the best at his game and is not all caught up in the BS. Good luck man!!

  • @aaronbland2301
    @aaronbland2301 8 месяцев назад

    You just gained a new fan! Keeping it real and raw.

  • @i-m4-real753
    @i-m4-real753 7 месяцев назад +8

    Hey brother, you're not alone. I've been there done that. I can hear and see the pain in you from the headache of pro Bass fishing. I'm older that you, but I went through the some of the same stuff as you not so many years ago. I was and like to still think that I'm a good Bass angler and I had a lot of friends and strangers alike tell me that I needed to go pro and that I could compete on the highest level. Well maybe?
    It turned out local tourney's was about the limit for me back when I actually did enter Bass tourney's within the state I reside in. I do have some Bass fishing trophy's from tourney's,(great memories) but I never had 'won' enough money to even pay for a 6-pack, or a few gallons of fuel, plus it was way too stressful and basically a PITA more than just fishing for fun. When Bass tourney's become over bearing w/zero fun and it's costing you a lot more money than what you earn back then it's time to throw in the towel. Don't let having to be a 'Pro' Bass fisherman cost you the love of what Bass fishing is really all about.
    Pay off your boat, truck and house. Then forget the Bass tourney's, but work a decent job w/ insurance and health care ect..Then save, save and save your money and keep Bass fishing and hunting in that spacial place in your heart before you loose it all, including your insanity.. It's not worth it. Remember this..."It's better to try and fail, than it is to not to try at all". So if you keep that in mind you'll always be a winner.
    The very best of luck to you my friend.

  • @Wil_D
    @Wil_D 8 месяцев назад +8

    Man, I can relate to this. This has been weighing on my mind the past couple years too as to how I could afford to do it. Made a classic and nobody cares. I keep hoping the industry will change but it seems to be getting worse. It's not much but you gained a fan and a follower in me.

    • @devinwillis7787
      @devinwillis7787 7 месяцев назад

      Tournaments don’t really advertise nearly as well as RUclips. It’s a lot easier to reach more people through social media and you don’t have to drive hundreds of hours a year and spend thousands on gas and tournament entries

  • @ur_moms_mistake13
    @ur_moms_mistake13 7 месяцев назад +1

    Follow this dude!! If any 1 deserves a brand it's this dude!! The grind is serious!!

  • @mikelancett1815
    @mikelancett1815 8 месяцев назад

    Really enjoyed you laying it out there. You’re 100% correct. Future of professional bass fishing is in jeopardy. Changes must be made to circuit formats/ payouts etc…keep rolling videos out showing the actual tournament to tournament process. If anything you’re educating young anglers who need to know the reality what they are getting in to. Then it’s a choice from that point on. Thanks for an authentic video.

  • @colt110987
    @colt110987 7 месяцев назад

    Jacob, I respect your honesty. You can do anything that you put your heart into. Your on your way, this next season is going to have some Foutz on championship day!!

  • @Racefisher
    @Racefisher 8 месяцев назад

    You do you Jacob. It will be the key to finding where you should be, there is a plan, trust it. Best brother.

  • @mikelucchesi1719
    @mikelucchesi1719 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks, Jacob. Really enjoyed the raw content and candor of this video. While I’ve never even sniffed your level of professional fishing, I cut my tournament bass fishing teeth against some of the very best back in the day. I think one of the biggest differences between then and now is the alarming *lack* of true grassroots tournament angling, and the ability to affordably move from regional “pro” to an actual professional at your level. The knowledge is available like never before, but the stepping stones have all but vanished for aspiring tournament anglers - sponsorships, affordable derbies that generate attention and help build branding, promotion and marketing to separate you from the rest of the crowd… far too many mouths to feed and not enough to go around. And that is a sad state of affairs. I truly hope you catch a break sooner than later, and that you can grow to love the sport again. It really is a magical, wonderful thing. Please try not to forget that. Best of luck.

  • @kevindespino8910
    @kevindespino8910 7 месяцев назад

    I’m pulling for ya. Thanks for the honesty about it I’ve always wondered how hard it is to make a living out of it.

  • @BartlettOutfitters
    @BartlettOutfitters 8 месяцев назад +4

    Respect the honesty and being real for everyone that won’t stand up and say anything about it. Social media isn’t everything, but definitely has been sponsors crutches to make more $$$ from their anglers. Completely understand the frustration. Keep going bro, you’ll find those who are willing to support you for who you are and the value you bring to the sport.

  • @slickfishing6347
    @slickfishing6347 8 месяцев назад

    Solid bro!!! Build off this! People are so scared to tell the truth in fishing.. breath of fresh air

  • @centrebassoutdoors4791
    @centrebassoutdoors4791 8 месяцев назад +13

    You definitely earned a sub. Genuinely humble and down to earth person. Can definitely tell you are passionate about what you do and I want to see you succeed man! You may look a bit uncomfortable being in front of a camera but I think as you find yourself getting more fans and support you’ll definitely get comfortable. Keep telling the truth because that’s the only way this industry will change because no one else has the balls to say it how it is. You found yourself a new fan in me!

  • @shawnleighton4483
    @shawnleighton4483 7 месяцев назад

    Good luck Jacob. It’s good to hear what the reality of it all is. Keep up the RUclips. Keep it reel

  • @nickkilgore5688
    @nickkilgore5688 4 месяца назад

    Wish the best of luck to ya man. I hope you can flip it around and continue to live your dream.

  • @christianhurtado6095
    @christianhurtado6095 7 месяцев назад

    Much respect for saying it like it is. Wish you better and luck if you ain’t done yet

  • @K.Ray87
    @K.Ray87 7 месяцев назад

    Good stuff man. Thanks for being real! Good luck to you!

  • @dannycrickenberger7657
    @dannycrickenberger7657 7 месяцев назад +1

    Hey bro I appreciate everything you've said in these videos. Hang in there Blessings my brother👊🤙🎣🎣🎣

  • @glensims7959
    @glensims7959 8 месяцев назад +47

    I relate 100% to what you're pointing out. My dream of fishing professionally was crushed over 25 years ago. I ended up in the marine repair business....and I get to witness SO MANY guys get their hearts broken. Even the most successful are only temporary. Hot for several years.....then it's all downhill from there. The sacrifice is rarely worth the long term outcome.
    Comparable to a severe drug addiction.

    • @Showmethefish
      @Showmethefish 7 месяцев назад +1

      Same story...I make $$ keeping them on the water...lol....(mechanic)

  • @cherokeelaketennessee7895
    @cherokeelaketennessee7895 8 месяцев назад +1

    Just followed you on IG and subbed to your channel. Love your honesty man. From a average Joe fisherman and big fan of pro fishing, I never thought about what it's really like to make a living and raise a family being a Pro. I think most of us look at it from the outside and say "those guys have it made" I'm seeing that's a long way from the truth. I wish you the very best

  • @user-zr1bj3oj5m
    @user-zr1bj3oj5m 8 месяцев назад

    Thank you , Jacob for the straight talk.

  • @BassFishingFanaticTV
    @BassFishingFanaticTV 7 месяцев назад

    Great perspective, several people rarely get to chase their dreams, and that means many can’t relate. Keep pursuing your dreams and goals! Don’t let the world around you dictate what your next steps are. Sometimes when you’re at rock bottom it’s the best place to build a foundation.
    Best of luck!

  • @ryansedani7837
    @ryansedani7837 8 месяцев назад +1

    Love this video and look forward to more “raw” content.

  • @sambello1105
    @sambello1105 7 месяцев назад +1

    Jacob, just subscribed. You are so right about what you said. Especially what a PRO is. I never paid my boss to go to work for him. Had the NPFL in town recently, I wish them luck, but they kept referring to the anglers as pros. Well, there were a couple there, but most weren't. The best to you and I will follow your journey from now on.

  • @timothymason8779
    @timothymason8779 7 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for sharing valuable information and telling the truth. God Bless you!

  • @8452942815
    @8452942815 7 месяцев назад +4

    This video is a must watch, it is so spot on. That is why I do it as a hobby, I love to compete, fyi if I did qualify to fish at that level, I would decline.
    You will get more guys like me to watch real life story's. Great video

  • @adammcgoskey1368
    @adammcgoskey1368 7 месяцев назад +1

    I’m glad you put this information out. I have always dreamed of being an elite pro. Now I wonder if it is really worth pursuing this dream. Wishing you the best in the future! Looking forward to seeing your raw unfiltered videos. It takes a brave man to stand up and speak the truth!!

    • @devinwillis7787
      @devinwillis7787 7 месяцев назад

      Everything but professional team sports is this way. I’m confused that people are this shocked about all of it

  • @FishingwithMorelli
    @FishingwithMorelli 7 месяцев назад

    Truth and honesty. I appreciate this bro!

  • @stephenknight7601
    @stephenknight7601 7 месяцев назад

    Totally agree with you. “Professional “ fishing has totally changed. You are your own business period and you have to build your social media side. You tube changed the whole sport. Don’t see it ever changing so all you can do is put you out there. This is a big step in the right direction. Good luck will be rooting for you. Honesty and show your love for the sport. Good luck go catch them and show the people out there who Jacob is. You got a fan here.

  • @kennyc84-3
    @kennyc84-3 8 месяцев назад +3

    This video is probably the realest one I’ve seen from a professional. It honestly sucks that you just cant fish and make a living especially after all the work you put in that people dont see. But unfortunately you said it best social media has took over for better or worse, we must all adapt. Good luck brother and ill be following your success!

    • @cl2095
      @cl2095 8 месяцев назад

      You just found your brand. Roll with it. Liked and Subscribed.

  • @JLaird-ji1qr
    @JLaird-ji1qr 7 месяцев назад

    Much respect for your honesty……… for what it’s worth you’ve gained a fan……..

  • @Riddlemethisgaming
    @Riddlemethisgaming 8 месяцев назад

    Great video man. It was nice meeting you this summer after a small tournament on Chickamauga. You Lets us check out the boat and some smal talk.
    Thanks for telling the truth.

  • @timisoutdoors
    @timisoutdoors 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks for your honesty. It's exactly why I know it's not for me. I tell my kids (all the time) I work hard and make money to be able to do the things I love....which is fishing. At this point in my life, I can probably do well if I wanted to be an influencer. On the flip side, at this point I know I won't make enough money as a professional fisher to sustain my current lifestyle. It seems like you have to do both (influence and fish) to stay above water. I think you nailed it when you said "there isn't that much money to go around." I think you are right. It certainly seems like a tough profession, but I wish you well in all you do. I appreciate your honest take on something that we all wondered about. Thank you!

  • @jaydeewatts8543
    @jaydeewatts8543 7 месяцев назад

    Hey Jacob
    Congratulations on achieving your dream. That is great.
    I'm sorry that the reality of that dream isn't what you thought. That's unfortunate. I'm rooting for you big time. And I know a lot of us are. Good for you giving all of us an honest view of what's going on.
    I've always wondered how these guys were able to afford it without much sponsorship help. I wish you all the best. Keep your chin up. You're an excellent fisherman. Hopefully someone will take notice of this video and give you the help you need. God bless

  • @kevinclement9147
    @kevinclement9147 8 месяцев назад

    I’m in. I will watch all of your stuff if it will help a small amount to keep you in the game. Keep it coming

  • @Fischize
    @Fischize 7 месяцев назад

    New sub for you, Jacob. Thanks for putting yourself out there being brutally honest. Stay safe, and God bless.

  • @kennethmcgar2938
    @kennethmcgar2938 7 месяцев назад +4

    Dude I feel the same way. I missed a lot in teenage years trying to make it. Then when I heard a pro say if you don’t have $150,000 to throw away the first year and $100,000 every year after that don’t even try it. Stepped away from the sport for the last ten years. Now I’m trying to come back to it.

  • @jamesw5836
    @jamesw5836 7 месяцев назад +6

    It's been this way for decades. Even back in the "pre-social media days" it was all about the right people. I had a friend that was a top Redman angler and won two Redman regionals. He never had a sniff at any sponsor money and very, very little product. He just didn't fit the model of what the industry wanted at the time and was totally ignored. After the second win he just went back to fishing for fun and never regretted it.

    • @derricksneed377
      @derricksneed377 2 месяца назад

      Know exactly what you are talking about. WOW! WHAT A SHAME!

  • @mikecollier7173
    @mikecollier7173 7 месяцев назад

    Good to hear my friend, they need to know what to expect.

  • @KentKeys-cs3nc
    @KentKeys-cs3nc 7 месяцев назад

    have watched you come up the ranks nothing but respect you hawk some lures/ equipment with that no filter attitude i will definitely buy them!

  • @manonamissionstudios9440
    @manonamissionstudios9440 8 месяцев назад +12

    Social media changed everything. Being a Bassmaster Elite angler everyone things you guys have it made. Not so much. I appreciate the honesty and you earned another subscriber. Hopefully, if you decide to push your social media presence the sponsers will reward you, that seems to be what they want. I wish you the best of luck and hope you have a terrific season in 2024.

  • @Californiabassassassins
    @Californiabassassassins 7 месяцев назад

    Time to get after it brother. We’ll be here for the show!!!!

  • @mau6457
    @mau6457 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks for speaking your heart Jacob! I’ve noticed over the last few years more pros are creating you tube channels and at first it was cool cause the info that provided was nice but now it is so redundant and the “this months top baits” is a way to sell product…. There are some really informative channels out there but there are more “go fund me” channels out there than needs to be. Keep moving forward Brother and don’t loose your passion for fishing!

  • @minnowdunkers6220
    @minnowdunkers6220 7 месяцев назад

    Hearing this makes me just fine fishing my Tuesday nighters and Sundays with a short drive from the house! Thanks for being honest!!!!

  • @josephakins2754
    @josephakins2754 8 месяцев назад +6

    Just liked and subscribed, shout-out to the RUclips algorithm for sending this my way! Keep your chin up dude, I’m sure it’s super tough financially but you’re so talented I know you’ll break through and gain a bigger following. You don’t have to be some big personality like Swindle, just be yourself and make some cool content and it will build on its own. Definitely don’t give up though, you’ve put so much time in. Stay strong bro.

  • @jonathanadamgordon1
    @jonathanadamgordon1 7 месяцев назад

    This is fantastic! Great job. Keep going.

  • @hueyswen27
    @hueyswen27 7 месяцев назад

    I have a lot of respect for you. Good job.

  • @ConatserFishing
    @ConatserFishing 7 месяцев назад

    You just gained a fan for sure! I’m trying to work myself to the next level but man it’s tough. Fishing is the only sport where being a pro actually cost you money! I just don’t see it feasible to do. I tried the social media deal, posted a video about a product and got almost a million views! Reached out to them about a partnership but because I didn’t have enough followers, they were not interested! Keep it up man! Just catch em and being honest! The stars will start to align.

  • @SpookyRedz
    @SpookyRedz 7 месяцев назад

    You telling the Truth is very Rare , and I think people should be saying Thank You for stepping up and speaking the truth , you should be rewarded not frowned upon