Story by Brad Fuller | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
Yesterday marked another trip around the sun for me, and it got me thinking about what really matters. This past year has been filled with wins and losses, triumphs and failures, progress and setbacks. And yet, I’m thankful for all of it because every moment, every challenge, and every success has taught me something valuable.
What I’m most proud of, though, is my family. When I say “family,” I’m not just talking about blood relatives. I’m talking about the people in my life who truly stick by my side no matter what. These are the people who are there through thick and thin, the ones who lift me up and, when necessary, stand at my door to call me out if I’m heading in the wrong direction.
If you’re wondering, “Am I part of Brad’s family?” ask yourself these questions:
- Do you desperately want me to succeed?
- Do you show up for me in the moments that matter most, even when it’s inconvenient for you?
- Do you celebrate my wins as if they were your own?
- Do you make an effort to understand my goals and dreams, and support me in pursuing them?
- Do you lean on me for support and expect me to do the same?
- When I struggle or fail, are you someone who helps me find my way back, without judgment?
- Are you willing to grow alongside me and adapt as life changes?
How you answer these questions dictates where you stand in my life. I promise the people who are in my circle don’t have to ask the question. They know exactly where they stand in my life, and I know exactly where I stand in theirs. There is value in being close to me, and I don’t give that away freely. My inner circle is made up of people who have earned their place through loyalty, trust, and a mutual desire for success. If you’re not there, ask yourself “Am I capable of these things? Am I ready to invest in that kind of relationship?”
The same is true for the National Professional Fishing League. The NPFL isn’t just a league—it’s a family. And like my personal relationships, being part of the NPFL’s inner circle requires a certain level of commitment. We’re building something special here—a community where loyalty, trust, and mutual respect are at the core of everything we do.
For our anglers, fans, sponsors, and supporters, the questions remain: Are you ready to be part of this family? Are you ready to put in the work, celebrate the wins, weather the storms, and push each other to succeed?
If you are, then welcome to the family. If you’re not quite there yet, I encourage you to reflect, recalibrate, and step up when you’re ready because the reward of being part of something this special is worth the effort every single time.
Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and building something incredible together. Let’s make it count.
