Discussion/information wanted on State/National Team Boats

[Texas Transplant]

I hear a lot of talk about both State and National 'Team' boats (Ranger, Stratos, Triton, etc.). I have some understanding of the sponsorship and systems used by boat mfg's (along with tackle mfg's and the like), but really lack the in-depth knowledge.



What I'd like to see here is some information/answers on the following types of subjects/questions.



What entails a National or State Team sponsorship (boats, motors, electronics, etc)?

What do you 'get' if you are sponsored (knowing full well that there are different levels of sponsorship)?

What do you provide in return?

How often are you required to get the newest model?







For those of us that don't frequent this level of the sport, it would be interesting to get views and information. I'm not at the level, or have the time, to even aspire to that, but since I am generally considered a active consumer (for bass toys and such), I'd like to find out more.



Tex

 

[Dan J.]

Individual agreements vary like fingerprints. Many pros are also restricted from discussing the actual details. The last thing a sponsor needs is one staffer upping his deal because he/she heard someone got something more/different, etc. Suffice it to say that nothing is free. When your year is committed to X amount of promotional appearances, dealer meet and greets, boat shows, co-op advertising,.....the list goes on and is multiplied by the amount of sponsors attained. Then try to figure in your tourney schedule of at least a week for each not counting pre-fishing, maintaining a guide (or personal) business, while trying to maintain a couple hundred days a year on the water to keep in shape and in touch and have a family. I have had no complaints personally, but I've seen the schedule eat up many good fishermen who didn't realize there's more to it than going fishing with a bunch of patches on your shirt and stickers on your truck. It's expensive, time consuming, sometimes exhausting, and all around the most enjoyable job in the world!



P.S. I've got a custom 2001 929 DC for sale with 6hrs. on the 225 Opti motor. A spotless, showroom new boat with every state of the art electronic and top notch addition imaginable. A pic is in My Library. I'll make a great deal to the right person!

 

[Greg Gutierrez]

I have to agree with Dan J. in all the details being a negotiated deal with privacy agreements written into most of the contract deals.

I can give you a little run down on the Nitro Team tearing system if you

 

[Texas Transplant]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the feedback. It certainly gives some additional information that I was not aware of, and helps clear the picture. Don't want anyone to violate their privacy agreements.



Tex

 

[TrepMan]

While were on the subject, I've read/heard good and bad things about buying a state/pro team boat. I've heard that you don't want one because the pro ran it to death (even if it looks good) to win/try to win tournaments. I've also heard that since most of the pro's (not the Keven Van Dam's or Woo's) have to turn/sell them every year or 3 that they keep them in great shape so they can make $ when they sell them.



Dan/Greg and other pro's as a novice would you suggest a pro team boat to a buyer? What is there to look at if you are interested (no Dan don't have the OK to buy your 929



Like Tex said this is interesting stuff for us weekend anglers.

 

[Rob LaMoy]

Trep, there can be a world of difference from a state team boat to a prostaff boat. Remember the average state team guy might fish 60-100 days a year if they are really cranking depending on geographic location. Southerners again, get even more. Asume the average northen state team guy fishes 3 days a week, 4 weeks a month, that's 12 days each month for say 7 months April-Oct. That's 84 days on the water. A southern boat would say have 140-150 days on it. A PROstaff boat would likely have in excess of 200 days on it easily some exceeding 300. Plus they do run the snot out of their boats when in operation. I have seen pros jump log jams, I've seen lower units devoid of any paint from shallow water hole shots. It's just par for the course when fishing for a living. They only have to get 1 season out of them and then trade them. The good thing is that usually the warranty hasn't even been registered yet and you get a full one upon purchase. Very important since you will likely need it. That motor and boat have had more time put on it than the average weekend angler fishing say 50-60 days a year would put on in 6 years. I personally would have to know the boat and operator to know how it was maintained before considering it. If the price is low enough to offset the use, and you get the warranty, go for it. Each pro is different like you and I. I have seen some boats that are 2 years old and spotless. I've seen others that are 6 months old and beat to hell from fishing 150+ days without a break to clean or repair. Just patch and go. There are a lot of variable to consider. This is just my experience, but then again, I have been accused of not knowing my glutius from an intrusion in the earth's surface! LOL Sound's nicer that way, don't you agree?

 

[Steven Atwell]

Here's what Gambler sent me when they were looking for some State Team memberships, I'm in FL. This details pretty well, all you questions. I can't afford a new one right now (even at the discount), therefor I'm not on the team:





Hi Steven,



The GAMBLER STATE TEAM PROGRAM will be up and rolling in a few weeks at the

outside. The concept is to get 2-3 guys in each of the bass fishing states to

become members. This has nothing to do with the NATIONAL TEAM that fishes

BASS, but is instead geared toward the local circuits only. It requires the

purchase of a 2003 GAMBLER and engine Combo of your choice. It can be

configured as you choose, with engine horsepower, color combinations,

trolling motor, and electronics.



This program is being offered on a very limited basis, and allows for great

discounts on the rigs, far less in fact than one would typically pay. It

requires that the angler fish at least 10 tournaments per year, and be

willing to work no more than 3 weekends of boat shows during the winter

months. It also requires that you wear the clothing and jackets provided to

you with your purchase of a STATE TEAM PACKAGE, at weighin ceremonies and

other events. It also requires that you submit a report every 6 months on you

fishng and boat show activity.



I know most of you will be interested in the total dollar amount, and that is

somewhat hard to give a figure to, as each STATE TEAM boat can be ordered

totally at the descretion of the STATE TEAM MEMBER. For instance, on a

typical 2100 GAMBLER with a 225 efi, you would normally be asked to pay (as

an average) about $38,000.00. We can get you in a boat of this type for

typically $6,000.00 less than those figures. Each boat is figured from a

dealer cost basis, plus rigging and factory prep. Since each one is custom

built for the owner, each one will be quoted seperately. A GAMBLER dealer

nearest you will be paid a promotion fee from GAMBLER to cover any warranty

related issues. You will be required to purchase a new GAMBLER every two

years to keep your membership active. However, at the price you will pay for

you boat, you should be able to sell it after each season for a modest

profit, thus allowing you to run a brand new rig as often as each model year.



If you have ever wanted a GAMBLER BASS BOAT, this will be the most cost

effective way to get into one. Plus you will have the benefits of a Factory

sponsored STATE TEAM. We will be offering tackle discounts, other

sponsorships, and detailed information on thousands of lakes and rivers

nation wide. The prestige of being a member of the GAMBLER TEAM can easily be

used as a spring board to furthering your fishing career.



We know this program is not for everyone, for it does have costs related to

the program that you must weigh the value for your personal situation. But if

you're serious about your fishing career and you want to be with the best

team going, you should give this concept a very close look. If you are

interested, please contact either me by phone or email.



We are looking for good people, with good reputations, non drug users and

guys who will present a good image for GAMBLER. There are so many plans we

have for the program that time and space do not permit. But for those getting

in early, the results will be very rewarding indeed.

 

[Dan J.]

Trep - Always look over a used boat carefully. No matter who's it was! Get it checked out by an experienced tech. and gather as much background as possible on boat, motor and trailer. The advantages of a pro boat can be immense. The price is usually a dramatic difference from an identical new model. Usually included are all the sponsor add-ons,(cutting edge electronics, custom features, upgraded HP/T/M, touring trailers,...)Clear titles and warranty make them a bargain buy. A lot of guys have spent their time in the boats working out the bugs to acheive 100 percent performance at tournament level and receive the benefits when it's time to turn it over. Check the hull thoroughly. This is where the true mileage is shown. Most dealers pride themselves in their inventory and their staff's representation, requiring the boat to remain visible and presentable. When staff boats come up for sale they are usually ready to add some gear and hit the lake. No break-in our first launch jitters. I've seen fishermen averaging 25 days a year annihilate a new boat in months and I know some pro's running 10 year old boats that look like new. Some guys are hard on their rides, some treat them better than their wives. I don't think pro's are the only ones in that bracket.

 

[JAMES MOORE]

Hey Tex, I have to go along with just about everything mentioned above, except with NITRO/TRACKER you are required to sell the boat within two years to maintain State Team membership. They also, depending on boat and dealer give a discount on the boat, plus require you to start making payments on the boat after the first year if pro-financing status is attained. The boat draws interest on the balance during the year you make no payments. So, the boat needs to be sold at a cost that includes that interest. For me, my Avalanche has to be sold for $20,330.00. This includes the interest drawn for the year. Original cost with all the extras I ordered was $24,369.00., includes 7% tax. So the savings to me is around $4000.00. Other manufacturers offer similar programs, some better, some not. I haven't made up my mind on whether I want to sell mine. I've found I really like my Avalanche and it fits my needs as a tournament fisherman. Hope this Helps

 

[gone bye bye]

"I have been accused of not knowing my glutius from an intrusion in the earth's surface..."



Rob LaMoy



That has to be the most politically correct statement I have ever read from you, AND it's funny!



As for buying a Pro/State Team boat...



"Plus they do run the snot out of their boats when in operation. I have seen pros jump log jams, I've seen lower units devoid of any paint from shallow water hole shots. It's just par for the course when fishing for a living. They only have to get 1 season out of them and then trade them..."



This is not entirely true. As with the general populous, you will find some Pro's treat their equiptment (like a surgeon with great care and diligence) and others ("run the snot" out of em). I think it will be a function on the personality of the Pro, and the waters he/she has fished with the craft, how anal they are about maintenance, and many other factors. Heck some guys get two and three boats a year at the top level of this game....they will sell them as soon as possible and the boat might not have but a partial season on it or even could be new.



My experience with being in a boat with a "Pro" has been varied. As Rob said, I have seen 6 week old boats look like 4 year old boats AND visa versa. But MOST of the Pro's I have fished with, contrary to popular belief, do not run their boats "wide open" all the time. It costs too much in fuel for the limited savings of time during practice. Yes they put alot of hours on the motors, but remember the "touring" pros motors (at least the bigger brands) have been partially maintained by factory support personel at the tournaments.



So, I guess, the best advice is the same for any used boat purchase. Evaluate each boat on in it's own and try to gather as much information as you can about the boat. Weigh all the factors against the money being saved before making any purchase.



You can find some awesome deals and alot of good deals on "team" boats especially at the local level.



Mini

 

[Texas Transplant]

Great feedback. I feel like I understand the in's and out's much better now. Much appreciated.



I have been starting to do some research for next fall. I've seen advertised several sponsorship boats from the State/National teams, along with other sponsored boats for other reasons. This helps me process and gain informaiton for my planning.



Tex