What Every Co-Angler Needs to Know Before Signing Up for a Pro-Am
What Every Co-Angler Needs to Know Before Signing Up for a Pro-AmWatch the Video – Tune In Now
Gain valuable co-angler insights from Deanna Moreno and Kirk Marshall, guided by the expertise of pro angler Ken Mah. These tips will help you prepare for your first pro-am tournament and ensure a positive, productive experience.
What Every Co-Angler Needs to Know with Deanna Moreno & Kirk Marshall, Narrated by Ken Mah
Join us as professional angler Ken Mah narrates this insightful episode featuring two highly respected and winning co-anglers, Deanna Moreno and Kirk Marshall. Together, they share their expertise and break down everything you need to know to succeed as a co-angler in pro-am tournaments. Whether you’re a first-time co-angler or looking to sharpen your skills, this guide will help you hit the water with confidence.
What Every First-Time Co-Angler Needs to Know
Stepping into the world of co-angling for the first time can be exciting yet intimidating.
To help you hit the water with confidence, here’s what every first-time co-angler needs to know:
- Communication is Key Your pro partner is your teammate for the day. Be sure to ask questions ahead of time, where and what time to meet, let them know if you need a back seat, discuss the plan, about netting fish, techniques they plan on, and any expectations. Clear communication sets the tone for a good day and a great experience.
- Be positive about your day and the pro that you’ve drawn, if you stay positive you will learn form every angler you are fishing with even on a tough fishing day. Confidence goes a long way so feeling good about every spot you pull up on will help you both catch more fish.
- Don’t give advice about how the pro should be fishing or where they should go. You are the co-angler and not there to make the fishing techniques or area decisions, if you do feel you need to make those decisions, fish as a pro.
- Be respectful of your pro, don’t cast over their line or take that shot while he is making his way to the front of the boat – being aggressive like this is a good way to start a bad day. When you are respectful and helpful your pro will most likely reciprocate and help you when you need another fish or two. You’re not competing with your pro; you are competing with the other co-anglers.
- Gas Money Etiquette, it’s routine to offer your pro gas money for the day. The amount can vary from $50–$70 depending on travel distance and local fuel costs. Offering $20 is insulting and may give you the reputation as a cheapskate. It’s a gesture that doesn’t depend on if you caught fish or not. If you cash a check, make the top ten or win out of that pros boat an extra amount would be a great gesture.
- Pack Smart, bring enough gear to be prepared, but don’t overdo it. Stick to versatile setups that align with the techniques you plan to utilize or those techniques you have confidence in. Six to seven rods and a tackle bag with essentials should do the trick.
- Dress for the Weather, prepare for any conditions by layering your clothing. Bring rain gear, sun protection, and comfortable footwear to stay focused and comfortable all day.
- Essentials to Pack, don’t forget pliers, line cutters, cull tags, balance beam or scale, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and any medications or personal items you might need. Being prepared ensures a smooth and enjoyable day.
- Respect the Boat, keep your space tidy, avoid stepping on seats, and handle the equipment with care. Treat the boat as if it’s your own—it’s a shared space, and good etiquette goes a long way.
- Be Adaptable The day may not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. Stay positive, learn from the experience, and adapt to the conditions on the water.
By following these tips, your first day as a co-angler will be smooth, enjoyable, and a great learning experience. Good luck and tight lines!
About BAM Tournament Trail
The Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail (BAM Trail) is an exclusive west coast pro level tournament circuit. BAM TT delivers multiple opportunities to showcase the talents of western anglers on several professional platforms.
As the BAM Trail continues to evolve it provides a platform of elite events for competitive anglers. The trail creates a logical avenue for sponsors to have direct contact with our West Coast anglers.
The BAM Trail is dedicated to creating a complete package of advertising opportunities including on-site activation, internet/social media, and a YouTube and TV series that reaches a large number of viewers each day.
BAM Trail is honored to be associated with its title sponsor, Bass Boat Technologies, and presenting sponsor, Tackle Warehouse. The trail is also supported by Storquest, Chicken Ranch Resort, Bass Cat Boats, Ford Fairfield,, Power Pole, Mercury Outboards, Bridgford Foods, Bob’s Machine, Dakota Lithium, Sticky Graphics, Jean Deleonardi Real Estate, Valley Outdoors and our conservation sponsor Fisherman’s Warehouse.
The BAM TT tourism sponsors: Lake Don Pedro, City of Oakley, Lake Almanor Chamber, the Boardman Chamber, and the Feather River Tourism Association.
Tournament events include BAM Pro Tour, Pro-Am and a Kayak Tour with a no entry Championship can be viewed on YouTube. Learn more here: BAM TRAIL, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Media / Advertising Contact Mark Lassagne
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