Story by Brad Fuller
In my last article, I opened the door to my past to give you an idea of how I approach the business of the National Professional Fishing League. There are several foundational elements that establish the core of our business—ideals that we are not willing to compromise on. We are unwavering in what we expect of ourselves, the anglers, and our fans.
Respect comes at us from all angles, but it is never far from the forefront of how we feel about ourselves and how we perceive others.
When I came home for good after working overseas, I joined my cousin Travis and my uncle in the family timber business. As I acclimated myself to the woods and my environment, I developed a healthy respect for the job I was doing. Hand-felling trees is dangerous work. My uncle impressed upon me that every tree in the woods is trying to kill me—not just the one you’re cutting but literally every tree you can see. I learned quickly to have a healthy respect for each situation I put myself in. Being the president of the NPFL really isn’t so different. It’s still about respect and looking beyond the task at hand.
In the world of professional fishing, success is measured by more than just the weight of your catch. At its core, our sport is built on a foundation of respect—respect for our fellow anglers, the environment, the game itself, and the legacy we’re all a part of. Without respect, even the most talented anglers and organizations can find themselves adrift, lacking the principles that truly define greatness.
Through my involvement with the NPFL, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the best and brightest in our sport. Time and time again, I see that the anglers who rise to the top are not just those with skill, strategy, or determination—they are those who carry themselves with respect. Respect is the silent engine behind the success of our sport. It’s in the way you conduct yourself at the ramp, in the relationships you build on and off the water, and in how you protect and preserve the fisheries that sustain our livelihood.
Respect for Fellow Anglers
In every competition, you’re not just fishing against a clock or the conditions—you’re fishing alongside a community. This league thrives on the camaraderie and sportsmanship that make every event not just a contest, but a celebration of our shared passion. Respecting your fellow anglers goes beyond a friendly nod or handshake; it’s about recognizing their efforts, appreciating their wins, and understanding that this is a brotherhood (and sisterhood) that should lift all of us up, even in the heat of competition.
Respect for the Environment
Our lakes, rivers, and reservoirs are more than just the backdrop of our sport. They’re the lifeblood of our industry. Every cast, every catch is a reminder of our responsibility to protect these waters. Conservation is not just a buzzword; it’s an obligation. As stewards of the sport, we need to leave these fisheries in better shape than we found them, ensuring future generations can experience the thrill that brought us all here in the first place.
Respect for the Game
Fishing is a tradition steeped in history and honor. The rules, the rituals, and the unspoken codes of conduct exist to preserve the integrity of the sport. Whether it’s following the rules to the letter, being honest about your mistakes, or simply respecting the unspoken ethics that govern our craft, how we play the game says more about us than any trophy ever will.
Respect for Yourself
At the end of the day, respect starts from within. The angler who respects himself carries confidence, humility, and integrity both on and off the water. It’s about preparing the right way, approaching each event with a mindset of continuous improvement, and holding yourself accountable for your actions. When you respect yourself, you automatically project that respect to others.
In closing, let’s remember that respect is not just a principle; it’s a practice. It’s something we demonstrate daily through our words, actions, and attitudes. It’s what binds us together as a league and as a community. Here at the NPFL, respect is not just expected—it’s demanded. Let’s continue to uphold the high standards that make our sport great.
