Story by Brad Fuller | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
I’ll get straight to the point. There’s a difference between competing and running a league, and at the National Professional Fishing League, we keep that line crystal clear. Lately, some have wondered if anglers should have a say in how the NPFL handles its business decisions. The answer is simple: No. Here’s why: keeping business decisions with our experts ensures that the league remains stable, fair, and focused on delivering the best platform for competition and an exciting experience for fans like you.
Many of our anglers run their own businesses, managing sponsorships, building personal brands, and making deals that further their careers. That’s great, and we fully support their entrepreneurial spirit. But running a professional sports league is an entirely different game. The NPFL is a platform that serves not only the anglers but you — the fan — and our valued partners. The decisions we make affect everyone, and those decisions need to be made by people who understand the complexities of growing a league, negotiating sponsorships, and building something that lasts.
At the NPFL, we see the field as a team — a collective of talented anglers, each bringing something special to the competition. But when it comes to business decisions, we must think about the bigger picture. My responsibility, along with the team I trust, is to make sure the NPFL stays on the right path — the proper vector for success — not just for today, but for the future.
That’s not a responsibility I take lightly. With every decision, I approach it with two guiding principles that remain steadfast: humility and empathy. These values ensure we’re thinking about everyone impacted by our choices — our anglers, our partners, and most importantly, you, the fan. It’s not just about what works in the moment; it’s about what’s right for the long-term success of this league and keeping the excitement alive for seasons to come.
I’ll be honest. The direction we’re taking may not be the right fit for everyone, and that’s okay. Heck, I’m not for everyone either! Leading something this big isn’t about making popular decisions — it’s about making the right ones. Not every call is going to please everyone, and I’m at peace with that. But if you’ve followed the NPFL long enough, you know that our goal has always been to protect the integrity of the sport and create something that fans and anglers alike can be proud of.
If what we’re building here at the NPFL doesn’t align with everyone’s vision, that’s perfectly fine. There are plenty of other opportunities out there. But know this: every decision we make is with the league, its future, and our incredible fans in mind. We’re not swayed by individual interests. We’re focused on what will make the NPFL stand the test of time and give you the best show we can.
So, here’s the deal. Our anglers will keep focusing on what they do best — competing at the highest level. We’ll handle the business to ensure that what you see on the water is thrilling, competitive, and built to last. You can trust that we’re committed to the growth, integrity, and future of this league, always making decisions with humility, empathy, and the best interests of the NPFL community at heart.
