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Photo courtesy of Steve Lawson/The Messenger
Linda Berry and grandson Roberto
pause along the parade route to show off their catch of the day.
Have you
ever been to a parade and enjoyed watching the spectators as
much as you did the parade itself? The adults seem to become
kids again for a brief moment as each float passes by. They
reminisce about days gone by and remember all the parades they
have been to and maybe even been in. Children on the other hand
stand in awe of each magical and colorful creation that passes
by and point to their favorites, smiling from ear to ear.
Parades
are an American tradition and although they are meant to be
entertaining, parades are also a great tool for advertising and
promoting sponsors and causes. Anglers can take advantage of
this tool in their hometown or nearby city without having to put
forth a lot of effort or money. A boat makes a great float
because it is already on a trailer and ready to haul. It is just
the right height for visibility and easy to decorate.
The
first thing to do is to get an application. Your local Jaycees
are normally involved in organizing the parade. Most cities or
small towns require you to register your entry. The applications
should be available in several locations and there is usually a
deadline to enter. They also require an application fee and
businesses may pay an additional charge. Non-profit
organizations usually only have to pay an application fee.
Choosing
a theme is important. The possibilities are endless when it
comes to fishing themes. Whether it is spring, summer, fall or
winter, you can promote water safety, kids and fishing, fishing
clubs, non-profit organizations that encourage conservation of
our natural resources. You already have most of the props, such
as rods and reels, life vests, nets, etc. Christmas garland can
be used anytime of the year to add sparkle to your boat and
trailer. You can buy it on sale after Christmas at 75% off and
have it on hand. For holiday parades such as Veteran’s Day or
the 4th of July, flags are colorful and always a
crowd pleaser.
Use your
imagination and don’t forget to include your sponsors.
Tournament shirts are a colorful way to draw attention to
yourself and your “boat float”. Recruiting children to ride on
the boat in the parade is easy, but be prepared, as the weather
is always unpredictable. They need to be dressed accordingly.
Don’t forget to decorate the tow vehicle. It is also a great
place to attach your banners or other signage. Some parades even
have prizes for the best float in different categories.
If you
don’t own a boat, call upon an angler in a local bass club. Most
anglers are more than happy to show off their boat and help
promote special events and will be glad to tow you along the
parade route. The whole club may want to get involved and use it
as a club project. The more "boat floats" the merrier! A local
boat dealership may pay the parade entry fee and let you tow one
of their boats to advertise their company and promote your
theme. Some parades even have prizes for the best float in
different categories.
Ask your
sponsors or local retail store to donate “freebies” to toss to
the crowd along the parade route. Candy is always a big hit and
having the wrappers printed with your sponsor’s logo would be a
great way to advertise. Your sponsor might also provide you with
a banner promoting your theme or their sponsorship of you. Large
retail stores sell candy such as mints in bulk quantity for a
very reasonable price if you need to buy some.
The more
visible you are in your community, especially at public events
such as parades, the more you will be recognized for your
participation and support of local projects. Most importantly,
make it a fun day for yourself. Show the world that fishing
makes you happy. Your efforts may inspire someone to pick up a
rod and reel, head for a local pond or lake and see what the
excitement is all about.
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YAKIMA BAIT COMPANY
