Tourney shirt guys

[nipples]

The post about where to get tournament shirts got me thinking….

I am wondering how many guys that wear tournament shirts actually have real sponsors. I am taking an educated guess here, but I would say not too many.

So if you are one of those guys who wears a tourney shirt and you do not have any real sponsors, this question is for you....

Why do you wear a tourney shirt? (looking for real responses).

Good Fishing,

-Paul-

[crawdaddy]

These are the fishing equivalent of gang colors. But I must admit they look a lot better than the guys who show up in ratty t-shirts and torn jeans. At least the guys in the sponsor shirts take the time to look presentable.

[Doug Hodel]

I would imagine that most people are not sponsored and my feeling is, that unless I am being compensated then I am not going to wear one. However, I do wear hats with company names or organizations but those hats have been given to me free and benefit me directly so I don't have a problem with wearing them.

I am not sure how the contingencies work, but there might be a requirment for a tournament shirt to be worn (ie Ranger, Triton, etc.)

For me if I were to wear a tourney shirt I would feel like a complete poser and I am not saying it is right or wrong to wear one just not for me.

When I fished the Clear Lake event I was surprised at how the pros do not wear their tourney shirts until the weigh in begins.

Just my thoughts.

[nipples]

I agree with you Doug. I'm not worried about looking pretty for a bunch of fat dudes out fishing (so I don't care if guys wear ratty jeans and t-shirts).

I spoke to one guy and he has his screen name on the back of his tourney shirt. He said he wears it to tourneys or events where he wants to be recognized by his screen name. I thought about that for the rally at Clearlake (but don't think that alone would justify the cost). So I was just wondering if there might be some other reason to get one that I hadn't thought about.

Good Fishing,

-Paul-

[Fast 492]

I don't think that a tourney shirt or t-shirt that says nipples would be appropriate at a family event like the rally :):), just my .02. I for one am not sponsored by anyone other than my wife, but I do enjoy wearing my ranger (tournament) shirt at some of the bigger events that I have fished, I put some patches of the products that I use on the shirt in the event that I win one of these tourneys, maybe a potential company will say "hey this guy promotes our product, lets help him out a little". You never know when you are going to have an opportunity to give a first impression. once again my .02...

[Guest]

There are many ways a guy can be sponsored.

Some get free equipment
Some get discounted equipment
Some get equipment and cash
Some just really like the company and want to help them out.

Either way, what difference does it make - If an angler wants to help a company gain some awareness than so be it.

I have 3 tournament shirts all from "sponsors"... I wear them rarely, only for trade shows, FLW events, and for award ceremonies if I think I might get a check and maybe a picture (it's been a while!) If I had one of the new versions already I would wear it for every tournament - because they are comfortable and washable!

However, there is nothing wrong with wearing them all the time. I know I have mine in a ziploc on my boat at all times - just in case a photo opportunity should come up!

Just my .02!

[nipples]

Your .02 cents is appreciated fast 492 and Tom.. If I wore an identifier it would simply say "NIPPS".

Not that there is anything wrong with "Nipples", it's only perverted if you make it perverse. Every mamal known to mankind has them. I borrowed it from the movie "Little Nicky" with Adam Sandler, so my intention was never perversion, just silly humor.

Thanks again for the .02

Good Fishing,

-Paul-

[Phil]

Well here comes Jigs and his .02.
We sponsor a couple Bass Tournament fishermen and are glad that they wear our hats and have Jigs embroidered on their shirt. Does it bring us more business, probably not. Does it any good what so ever, yes I think so. I remember when I wanted a little help to fish tournaments and the only company that helped me out back in the 80's was Western Auto, I was proud to put their name on my shirt back then. Today I have a ton of sponsor names on my shirt, mainly because they are very good vendors of mine, personal freinds, and great sponsors of the sport. So does it matter, sure it does, if you like the product you are fishing with, it's just another way to say. "hey I use this product and not affraid to say so".
Kinda like "hey my name is ni****s and I am proud of it" !! Which I personally would not, but to each their own (correct). There ya go .

Thank you
JIGS

[nipples]

Good response Jigs.. thanks.


On a less serious note...

Now all I need to do is find an adult novelty store willing to sponsor me... Hmm.. Wonder if a bass would hit a wacky rigged rubber...er... oh wait, this isn't the lounge... nevermind... family friendly.. right... I'll save that thought for the lounge.... lol

[Guest]

Hey nipples...

I agree nipples isn't really perverted... Unless you add it to a few other words... Like errrrrrrrrrrr I won't go there! ha ha ha

It's just a word... If anybodys kid reading these posts happens to ask them what "nipples" means... they could easily be taught by using a cow or a goat or whatever for reference... Its where we get milk from the cow... or its how a cow or goat or dog or whatever nurses its young! It'd be a great Animal Science lesson for any young kid that might be reading this!

So I guess you are doing public service by using the name nipples!

[350V RGR]

Back in 05 when I fished the FPT.

A $250. day turned into a $750. day because I was wearing a Ranger Cup shirt.

Ranger Cup has certian rules that must be followed in order to get the Cup money.

Wearing there shirt ALL day is one of the rules.

Each tour has there own payout scales.

example: FPT's Ranger Cup will pay $1000. if a Ranger Cup team win's or $500. to the highest placing Ranger Cup team.

So back in 05, we finished in 10th place and was the highest placing Ranger Cup team so we got the $500.

$75. buck's for shirt that gives me a chance to win a "G" or 1/2 "G"
No problem I wear XL .

[Blue_R70]

[kopper_bass]

Nipples,
Here's just another twist on wearing a tourney shirt, or anything similiar, for you to consider.

Before i got some of my sponsorships and official tourney shirts, i personally went and had made a generic tourney shirt with just my name, and my local club on it. I also got a CA Bass Federation shirt made too. These shirts were generic tourney shirts from Cabelas, with embroidered fish on the backs, or just a generic boat (skeeter) shirt. I had a few made up and would add the specific patch for the tourney i was about to fish (such as FLW, BASS, or WON). This not only met some requirements for the tourneys, but it also showed pride for the circuit you were fishing. I wore my CA BASS shirts specifically to the Bassmaster Opens to show that the grass roots group was well represented. These shirts represent my organization and me personally, and as a participant of a tourney, i want to represent my organizations.

This not only shows the tourney orgs. that your club or Federation are supporting this event with participation, it also puts a name (on your shirt) with a face, so as you continually keep crossing that stage and accepting those checks, people start to recognize you - including other top tier competitors. This just opens the doors for future opportunities - a raggedy old white t-shirt that says "gitt'r done!" just doesn't do that.

I also think this does get recognized that you are making efforts to be presentable in a nice, clean, and simple way without trying to "fake" representation, and that you have pride in being apart of an organization, and are trying to represent them. If you belong to such organizations, you should be proud to wear their jerseys, shirts, or whatever product they have, then you can just "personalize it" by adding your name. it can be that simple!

This is the very start of how you then get sponsorships that actually do give you stuff (cash, product, discounts) in compensation for wearing their shirts across the stage in the future.

just something to consider,

Kopper_Bass

[Doug Hodel]

I would completley agree with wearing a tourney shirt based on your explanation kopper.

My thing about wearing patches of companies is that they should pay for that advertisment. When I used to race BMX I never wore any logos of anything if I wasn't sponsored by the company. I even took all my stickers off my bike if I wasn't sponsored by that company.

Just my opinions.

[Blue_R70]

My thing about wearing patches of companies is that they should pay for that advertisment. When I used to race BMX I never wore any logos of anything if I wasn't sponsored by the company. I even took all my stickers off my bike if I wasn't sponsored by that company.

I'm in complete agreement with your stance on the Patch Pirates, Wannabes and Poseurs!

[ash]

I have heard of guys wrapping their boats on product sponsorships WTF?? I am not a "sponsored" tournament fisherman however I would have to see some Cash or a contract of paying for x-amount of $$ in tournament fees before I would even begin to wrap my ole girl.

I would like to have a BassCat Tournament Shirt with my Name on it. It really is a representation of myself and pride in my boat. So if anyone has any free Large BassCat shirts I would love one

[Bassin]

Sooooo you think someone is a poser if they have all Lamiglas rods, shimano reels and always use Yamamoto baits....and since they like the products that they use, they wear the product shirts or hats even though they do not get anything in compensation from these companies?

Man, if that is the truth....the Motorcross industry is lovin it! How many trucks have you seen with a "FOX" sticker on it...lol....

[Dynastyworms]

when I was in high school, my fishing club and I sent out a bunch of letter to fishing companys. Two repliyed with two giant boxes of free products. I will always rock there stickers on my truck and If i get a tourny shirt, there logos will be on it.



z

[Doug Hodel]

For me if it is freely given to me then I might entertain wearing it, Free hat, free jersey, free baits, free oil, but to pay $90+ to advertise someone's product seems a bit much.

I wasn't neccessarily calling those that wear the shirts poser's. I myself would feel like a poser wearing one, number 1 I would feel like I am trying to present myself to be better than I really am. The second is that I just don't want to advertise for free.

I use certain rods and reels, but there aren't anybody really concerned with what I am using, nor am I advertising it either.

For many people it might make them feel more confident, but ultimatley it is up to the individual.

I would think that these companies do love the fact that people are buying their stickers for advertising, I know that I would.

[Blue_R70]

Sooooo you think someone is a poser if they have all Lamiglas rods, shimano reels and always use Yamamoto baits....and since they like the products that they use, they wear the product shirts or hats even though they do not get anything in compensation from these companies?

Not really, because the people in such cases aren't trying to present themselves as reps of said companies. They're just wearing promo items. Everyone likes the free promo goodies. It'd be different if they spent big bucks to buy a "fishing uniform" in order to look like a sponsored professional or promotional staffer. That'd be posing...

[Dan McKenzie]

hmm, while I don't where tourney shirts, I think doing so for some is a confidence booster, something said to be looking your best, remember Dale Carnagie and dress for success? You don't wear waders to a dance, right? I think the mental state plays an important role in anyone's success, looking your best (at least in your own eyes) is a huge part of it. Don't need to be a rocket scientist to figure out who would be more appealing to a potential sponser, the proffessional looking guy, or buttcrack with the old yellow stained tee-shirt?

[Ken C.]

You don't wear waders to a dance, right? ...or buttcrack with the old yellow stained tee-shirt?

Whut.... Is there a problem here???

[Blue_R70]

I think the mental state plays an important role in anyone's success, looking your best (at least in your own eyes) is a huge part of it. Don't need to be a rocket scientist to figure out who would be more appealing to a potential sponser, the proffessional looking guy, or buttcrack with the old yellow stained tee-shirt?

C'mon, it's only fish'n! There's absolutely nothing wrong with fishing in an old yellow stained tee-shirt. If you fish in old yellow (and/or brown) stained undies, that'd be totally different...

But if you truly must look your best while ripping lips, then maybe we should take a cue from ye olden days when a tweed gentleman's sporting jacket/blazer (w/ leather elbow patches), necktie, wool hat and expensive sporting boots were de rigeur when angling about. Pip Pip!

[Bassin]

lol....ok, I'll be looking for the guy in that outfit Saturday in 90+ degree weather...lol

[Blue_R70]

lol....ok, I'll be looking for the guy in that outfit Saturday in 90+ degree weather...lol

Yes, look for the sweating dandy in full sporting attire. If you see me, you can join me for a spot of high tea! Cheerio, guv'nor...

[DanO]

Most companies start with some sort of a field staff position in which you are allowed to purchase product, from the manufacturer at a significant discount in exchange for advertising space on your boat, truck, jersey or whatever.

Manufacturers use these field staff positions to do two things. First, they use them to develop true pro staffers, people that learn the company's methods of doing business and become a part of the company's planning for future promotional activities. Many people get a "pro staff position" and do not live up to the agreement, so if all were paid to put jerseys on, it would be at a great loss to the manufacturers; which impacts the industry and pricing of products.

An extenson of that is part two. To have people that know the company and product lines well enough to work at consumer and trade shows and open houses. They will usually do that after they find a pro staff member understands what the company is trying to accomplish.

Its called paying our dues, and if you ask many of the compensated pro staffers out there, I would venture a guess that they did the whole route that got them where they are now.

I suppose you could call that being a poser, but its all a part of the sponsorship learning process.

Dan O'Sullivan

[Tomas]

although i have a couple of tourney shirts i think i've worn one of them once...and that was just for pride.

I have a triton with a yamaha and i wear polo's and hats for these two products and it's just becuase i'm proud of what i (and the bank) own.

to me it's no different than a person wearing his/her favorite football or baseball jersey of their favorite team, no?

[C-Bone]

Ya know this is an interesting question...my partner and I both had our names put on "Champion" tourney shirts, but NEVER wore them for just this reason (1 yr)..."Didn't want to look like a POSER or Kuke!"

HOWEVER...after leading day 1 at the 100% TOC at Shasta a couple years back, (WE FISHED SEMI-PRO) we decided what the hell.....moral of the story???

We weighed in in our BRIGHT yellow Champ shirts..haha later at the awards Bill D. from Bob's in Modesto came up and personally told us how he appreciated it as well as offered some goodies and help for the next season.....GREAT GUY!! So ya never know??? just my $.02

[Tomas]

atta boy!

[Phil]

Good response Dan-O good job C-Bone.........it is the same reason we never have to buy Trilene line again, and it's the only line we use !!!.

JIGS

[gcopple]

For me if it is freely given to me then I might entertain wearing it, Free hat, free jersey, free baits, free oil, but to pay $90+ to advertise someone's product seems a bit much.

so what your saying is that you have never bought a Polo shirt? Lacoste? any of the higher end brands? heck even some billabong and hurley shirts are getting pretty pricey. what do you do, take out every thread that makes up the guy riding the horse playing polor from the shirt? whats the differenc? or are you sponsered by Ralph Lauren?

I have a tournament shirt because i can get contingencies from the Bass Cat Quest program and i have two patches from companies that i get discounted product from: Pepper Jigs and Vertical Lures. I do have a few other shirts that i wear when i fish from companies that i am not getting anything from and i see it as wearing a Billabong shirt or something. Whats the difference?

george

[Doug Hodel]

I think we are talking about tourney shirts in particular, patches, etc. Like I said if it were free, I might entertain the idea of wearing one, but I don't think a company is going to give me one for free.

For me it is simply, that I don't want to present myself as something I'm not while at the same time I am not going to pay 90+ dollars to advertise for any company. Were I to be getting a contingency, such as yourself, it would be a no brainer for me.

Whatever anyone else chooses to do is their business and makes no difference to me.