The way it makes the most sense to me is to join a local club that is affiliated with BASS , FLW, or any other similar National Bass fishing organization. These small clubs charge entry fees for each affiliated tournament. You can enter either as a boater or non boater. Partners are often designated by a entry drawing at the club meeting a week or so prior to the tournament. Most of the entry fee is paid back to the winners e.g. 1st place, second place & third place depending on a five fish stringer weight. You also earn points depending on your placement. This organized system identifies the best anglers by their performance at the small (three or four state ) level. Towards the end of the fishing season these small area clubs will compete against other regions and divisions as organized by BASS and FLW etc. Winners flow towards the Classic which is held at various large impoundments in the Country. The cost of competing are entry fees, shared travel , lodging, meals and heavy equipment costs etc. Your ability to grow as a Pro Bass fisherman readily becomes apparent by a positive cash flow. It takes time to develop the skill set to be successful. As you develop your skills you can solicite sponsors which may off set some of your costs of entry fees, equipment, boats, motors, trucks etc. It is a hard row to hoe but well worth the effort for the few who make it to the top.
