Had some time on the plane for a little recon. No one ever talks about this.
My preliminary findings indicate:
The average professional tournament fishermen on the Bassmaster circuit earn $10,000 to $20,000 per year in prize money. Endorsement and sponsorship money supplement the fishermen's annual income for a yearly approximate income of about $45K. That is with no added benefits like heathcare, retirement 401K, dental, or any optical care. Deduct 35% for taxes and that leaves $29, 250.00. * That's at poverty level depending on # in family and possibility eligible for Food Stamps...
Deduct the associated costs for truck, fuel, oil, tackle, licenses, maitence/repairs for truck/boat equipment, and entry fees. I would estimate that is 1/3 of that $45K. If they were to add the benefits out-of-pocket that's at least another 1/3?
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salarie...sherman-Salary
As a comparison:
Nationwide, the annual salary for a Waste Management garbage truck driver is $40K plus the addition of the benefits mentioned above and minimal personal travel.
The average salary for a mailman is $51,390.00 plus the addition of the benefits mentioned above and minimal personal travel.
Low-Income Limits. Low-income earners can earn at or no more than 199% of the poverty level. For example, if you live alone, the federal government considers you a low-income earner if you earn between $11,490 and $22,865.10 (1.99 x$11,490).
2019 USA poverty guidelines:
https://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-guidelines
Standard rule applies. If you want to make a quick thousand dollars in tournament fishing, start with two thousand.