| “Rising Above the Noise” for professional success is the core of sharply focused event. Forestville, WI (November 12, 2024) – With the New Year just around the corner, anticipation is running high for the National Professional Anglers Association (NPAA) 2025 Annual Conference. The premier event for the sportfishing industry’s angling professionals including guides/captains, tournament anglers, tackle retailers, and industry representatives, the conference is slated for Friday, January 3rd through Saturday, January 4th, at the Chula Vista Resort and Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells, WI. “We are really looking forward toour 16th annual conference,” says NPAA president, Patrick Neu. “ This year’s gathering is designed to help sportfishing industry professionals focus on what they need to do to “Rise Above The Noise” in today’s content-driven world. The conference promises to provide attendees with a deeper, more realistic understanding of what it takes to be successful on a professional level in this industry.” |
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| Justin Hamner at 2024 Bassmaster Classic This year’s conference agenda includes in-depth educational seminars presented by two anglers who are at the peak of their game on and off the water, the NPAA annual business meeting, partner booths and breakouts sessions. In addition to the planned activities, the conference provides the opportunity to network with industry pros and other NPAA members at Friday’s Meet & Greet Party, Saturday’s Networking lunch, and the Future Angler Foundation Benefit Banquet Saturday night. “NPAA Conference attendees can learn more about making a living in this industry at this one event than they can in 10 years on their own,” continues Neu. “Just ask anyone who has attended one.” This year’s event will zero-in on how to be successful as a tournament angler, influencer or captain/guide in the sportfishing industry. “Speaking from years of experience,” says Neu, “it’s a journey that’s much easier and faster if you put into practice what you pick up at our conferences each year. The early January timing is also perfect for attendees to learn about the latest trends on and off the water prior to the beginning of the 2025 guiding and tournament seasons.” Headlining Saturday’s exciting schedule are featured speakers Justin Hamner, the 2024 Bassmaster Classic winner, and 2024 NWT Championship winner, Tom Huynh.. Their knowledge, tips, and tales of struggles to reach the top of their sport will truly inspire while helping you map out a route to your own professional success. |
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| Hamner with Two Smallies “I want to be brutally honest with everyone who has the same dreams I had about becoming a pro angler,” says Hamner. “I didn’t come from money or have insight as to what it would take to be successful in this business. All I had was a love for this sport and a burning desire to do everything necessary to reach my dream. It wasn’t easy getting here, but I’m proof it’s possible.” Hamner plans to share the importance of creativity in adding value for your sponsors, and how critical it is to “Rise Above the Noise” in today’s social media-dominated world. “There are numerous strategies to achieve success in this industry,” he explains, “but much of it boils down to humility, building relationships and putting in the work others aren’t willing to do. I’ll be sharing what I believe needs to happen for your dreams to become reality.” |
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| Tom Huynh at 2024 NWT Championship Huynh, who has made remarkable progress in only four years as a pro, says it’s “humbling” to be asked to speak by an organization as well-respected as the NPAA, and it means a lot to him that people want to know how he has become successful in such a short time.. “Starting out, I was surprised to learn only a small percentage of anglers make a living wage fishing,” he recalls, “But I was determined to meet the challenge and use what I learned to teach others. I want everyone to see you can get here. At 45, I’m no young gun – but if I’ve learned how to do it anyone can.” Both Huynh and Hamner agree that joining the NPAA is a smart move if you hope to succeed as a professional in the recreational fishing industry. “The NPAA offers a wealth of information on the process,” notes Huynh, “and it gives back by working hard to get more kids on the water. Join up and you’ll enjoy personal interaction with other members while also receiving really nice discounts from highly reputable fishing companies on items ranging from tackle to apparel.” |
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| Indeed, the entire NPAA Annual Conference is going to be an informative, entertaining and productive event for all who attend, and Neu points out it’s once again being held at the impressive Chula Vista Resort and Conference Center. “The conference is just 50 minutes northwest of Madison, Wisconsin, and offers an opportunity for the NPAA’s Upper Midwest members to attend with an easy drive. Those who choose to fly into Dane County Regional Airport, Chicago O’Hare or Milwaukee can rent a car for a scenic drive to the venue. The family-friendly resort offers one of the largest waterparks in the Midwest and the $139 a night room rates include 4 water park passes. The NPAA 2025 Annual Conference is open to both members and non-members. Pro-Members will pay only $125 for their registration with NPAA Student Anglers paying just $75 to attend. Non-Members are $50 more but they will receive a $50 rebate on a membership if becoming members before the end of January. Registration is available online by clicking this link: Conference Registration. View the tentative Conference agenda by clicking here. In addition to superior networking opportunities, sportfishing advocacy, the Annual Conference, and promoting entry into the sport, the NPAA offers a monthly member newsletter, a weekly industry NewsBLAST, and access to significant discounts on gear and services provided by many of its nearly 80 supporting partners. For more information on joining the NPAA, attending the Annual Conference, and exploring the many benefits membership provides, visit www.npaa.net. |
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| FAF Benefit Banquet About the National Professional Anglers Association: The National Professional Anglers Association (NPAA) is a non-profit, member-based association dedicated to sportfishing. The NPAA’s membership is composed of professional guides, tournament anglers, angler educators and sportfishing/marine industry professionals who are passionate about the sport. For more NPAA partner, member, and industry news, go to www.npaa.net. CONTACT: Pat Neu NPAA President director@npaa.net 920-365-6051 |
