Ask Mark

[John D'Agata]

I am interested in getting into professional fishing. I live in NH and fish the North Atlantic (Gulf of Maine) on a weekely basis, primarily targeting Cod and Pollack. I do not currently own a boat, but have been fishing on charter boats for years. I consistantly outfish everyone on the boats and feel I have what it takes, but I wonder where to begin. Any suggestions would be great.

[marksosin]

Dear John:

Let me start by saying that I am NOT a professional fisherman and have no intentions of ever becoming one. I am an educator and journalist. Fishing happens to be my field of concentration. By definition, a professional is someone who makes a living from a particular discipline. In fishing, the only professionals that come to mind are captains and fishing guides along with full time tournament fishermen who fish for money (purses). It is extremely difficult to gain a foothold in either discipline. As a captain or guide, you have to generate a strong clientele and help them catch fish. Building a business takes quite a few years.

Tournament anglers generally have a host of sponsors who help pay the freight. Entering tournaments around the country can be expensive when you consider travel, practice days, etc. Reaching a level where sponsors will even consider you takes time, money, and a winning track record.

Mark Sosin