Some above have highlighted it. There are certain items (although few) that are free, others that are discounted varying amounts, and others that they pay full price for just like the rest of folks. I'll add to that as we attempt to work with pros often: when I'm asked for sponsorship, some local guys are often surprised to learn how little of mark up we as marine dealers are allowed. I think most think that their local marine shop is always pushing one over on them, but many would be surprised how little mark up there is at the dealer level on many boat accessories. For example: college anglers can get Humminbird and Minn Kota equipment SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than I can as a dealer. Like... not even close. With that said, fishing professionally is an expensive endeavor if you're not winning, and winning often! I always wish the best to the touring young guys chasing the dream.

Yes but the number was and I assume is still limited on how many you get for “free”. They weren’t filling their boat full of free tackle.

I thought if you wore a fishing shirt you were fully funded.

This is good.

Absolutely not!! I have sold lots of tackle to several touring pros.....on items I have listed on a couple fishing forums and E-Bay also. Some are paying crazy money for baits still available just so they don't have to spend time finding them. Personally, I have had better luck on a $6 SK 1.5 squarebill than about any other brand squarebill on the market. But, I have seen some of the SK pros (will not mention their names in a public forum) that you know get truckfulls of them willing to pay $45-50 on other brands because they have more confidence in them.

Episode 2....Uploading episode 3 right now with what I bought on our off day here at the Smith Lake MLF Pro Circuit.