Ask Mark

[dalbert02]

Sir,
I enjoy your show tremendously and have my DVR set to record every episode. I particularly enjoy the fact that you explain things from the tackle you use to the techniques you employ. May you please do a show on fly tackle? It would be great if you could give us some tips on casting larger flies and how to setup a rig for the larger inshore species such as tarpon, snook, and permit. Thank you in advance.
-dave

[marksosin]

Dear Dave:

Over the years, I have done a number of shows that feature fly fishing for several different species from sailfish to bonefish. The last few seasons, we have not had any sponsors who make or sell fly fishing tackle. Sponsors like to see their products in front of the cameras. That's primarily why I don't use a flyrod on the show very often. However, based on your request, I'll see what I can do for the 2011 season.

Mark Sosin

[dalbert02]

Thank you sir, I appreciate your consideration. Does not Penn still make fly reels?

-dave

[marksosin]

Dear Dave:

Penn used to make flyreels, but they have not made them in the past few years. Of equal note, Penn is now owned by Jarden Corporation and managed by Pure Fishing. About three weeks ago, I received a phone call from them saying they are making drastic cuts in their television budget and will no longer sponsor us after this year. They have dropped a number of shows including Bill Dance who has been with one of their companies for over 30 years. We will have a new sponsor for reels next year.

Mark Sosin

[snookphishing]

dear mark,
i think i speak for alot of your fans when i say id love to see your show sponsored by shimano. even though all the great companies out there like quantum, okuma and even avet are looking for phishing experts like you, honestly shimano's on top. i would greatly consider shimano just because of the great products they offer. even if u dont i still hope u go with what you want. thats how i went from an offshore guru to an inshore specialist. and think about it. ur sposored by daiwa. thats not bad. with diamond and bomber by your side, your set. go for what u want, but i still say shimano is boss . also go with mirrolure
_________________
inshore everything

[marksosin]

Dear Snookphishing:

Getting sponsors used to be a lot easier than it is now. Shimano dropped Rick Murphy and Jimmy Houston. Other shows are losing sponsors. The oil spill has had a pronounced effect on the tackle industry with fishing curtailed along the entire Gulf coast. I spoke to a man last night who has sold television advertising for at least 20 years and he, too, says it is the toughest it has ever been. We'll see what happens. I can assure you that picking and choosing the companies you may want may not be the answer.

Mark Sosin