I am looking for info on how to approach companies when looking for a sponsorship. I am mostly targeting smaller tackle companies and local tackle shops. But my question is how should I approach them, should I send them a resume, talk to them personally? Any info is greatly appreciated.

Keep in mind most tackle companies and bait shops receive numerous requests for sponsorship, but I always found that talking to them personally (face to face) was the best method for me.  

Be sure to take a resume and your tournament shirt, when doing so!

Why exactly would you take your tournament shirt?

At every face to face deal I have had, I wore a shirt

and tie.

JT Bagwell

JT, I don't think that companies are for sure just what they will be putting there logo and name on. One example is when my fishing partner and I stopped by a chemical plant for my partner to say good bye to his wife the owner walked out and was amazed. He was stunned by the layout of the boat with all the electronics, and then when he noticed our tournament jersey's he couldn't believe how bright and professional they looked. Obviously he was not a tournament angler. I wouldn't necessarily wear the tournament jersey, but just have it along.

Shirt and a tie for all sponsorship meeting or interviews for me as well.

I will also wear a shirt and a tie for all sponsorship apperances unless I am told what to wear.

My resume has pictures of my tourney shirt so they may veiw it there. I feel my appearance is as important as my resume. I treat every interview just like a job interview because basically thats what it is.

Back to the question, but I am changing the question.  How do you approach the larger companies about becoming a sales rep?  Most of the websites don't have an employment link on them.  I am thinking about sending a cover letter and resume to them via fax number listed on their site.  That is about the only thing I can think of.  Just want to make sure I am not missing something.

Most companies have rep groups that they work with. They are companies

that specialize in putting products in stores.

If you are interested in being a rep, and the company website has a phone

number, call it and start asking questions.

JT Bagwell