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 4^th 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.