In need of a mentor.
How do you find a mentor? Or does a Mentor find you?
I'd suggest finding a local Bass club. There are lots of guys that will take you under their wing and help teach you everything they know.
I found my mentor in a bass club, Daniel. Thats definitely a great place to start. Social media is a good place these days to introduce yourself to someone in your area and start to talk fishing. Where are you in your fishing? Co-angler, team tournament competitor, aspiring pro? Where are you located?
I live in Nashville TN. I haven’t been able to find a club that isn’t full or won’t accept non boaters . I’ve only been in Nashville for a year and with Covid I haven’t had the chance to meet new people and create friendships with other anglers. You’re right though Pete social media is a great place to meet new people. I’m just more of a in person social Type of person. So I’ll look in to the social media part.
I’m looking to learn all there is about tournament fishing from the back and front of the boat. I guess what I’m looking for is some guidance on and off the water and just having a tough time getting my feet wet In the sport.
Another great way to get out there is to enter as a co-angler in BFL's, Bassmaster Opens, MLF Toyota series tournaments. The BFL's are really good at connecting with guys in your area. The larger tournaments will pair you with guys that are strong anglers and there is a lot to learn there. One of the best tournaments to enter is the Bassmaster Elites as a Marshall. You will be paired with top-level guys and there is a lot to learn. I also really like this program, because it takes the rod and real out of your hand. This is good because it really intensifies the learning process without the distraction of competing in your own tournament. You get to see guys struggle with changing conditions, solve problems, learn new techniques, and a lot more.
Daniel, I ran across that when I was looking for a club in my area. After messaging a bunch of them I found one that would answer, and wasn't full. Turns out, they have some of the best anglers in the state (not being biased, one made 12th on the opens last year, one got First at the State TOC, and MANY of them have been to regionals multiple times)
They are as good as they are because they share and are willing to teach. There are no secrets within our club, and it really works out well.
Keep trying, you'll find one!
