How do you start a tournament?

[stony]

Well, let me get right to the point here.

My buddy and I recently started a new fishing forum for us locals here in Grand Junction, Colorado.  The main reason we started it was to a)find a fishing buddy when we aren't available b)keep in touch with our buddies c)post up real fishing reports from our local waters (tired of going to Sportsmans Warehouse and seeing that every single body of water is just jumping and here is what they are biting on *hint*hint*hint and CDOW not having their conditions updated for months on end.)

So, we have been looking at different ways to promote our site and get it out there and one of the ideas we had was to organize a fishing tournament for a local charity. 

The only major problem we have though is how to organize a fishing tournament.  We know how to put $10 in a hat with our buddies and whoever wins gets the hat but we don't know how to promote a large event.  In fact, we have never really had a large event here in town before and we would like us to be the first to get one together.  This would be entirely non-profit with all proceeds, less costs, going to a charity here.  We just really want to create a buzz about the tournament and in addition provide exposure to our website.

Can somebody help and give us some pointers on what to do, how to get some sponsorship for prizes, what to do, where to go.  We are just lost right now.  The idea is big but we feel a little bit overwhelmed.

Any help would be appreciated.

[Jared LeBlue]

If you are looking at throwing a large tournament my first question is are you insured? Believe me when I tell you, protect yourself. Now that is totally up to you and if you want to take the chance of putting on something big without insurance it's a chance you are taking. With that out of the way, the first thing you need is a set of rules, I would look at some other tournaments being held and draw from their rules. Next thing you have to look at is a launch and parking area that can handle a large tournament. You may want to consider a launch that has a covered pavillion close by in case of rain. Of course you will need a scale and a weigh basket. Now that you have the basics you will need to promote your tournament. Obviously the more sponsors you have the better so think outside the box. Don't just hit up tackle retailers, try other outlets. Many stores or companies will be happy to sponsor you tournament if it is for a good charity. Once you get your sponsors lined out you can make you pamplets and distribute them across your community. There are alot more things to consider but they will come to you as you start preparing. This is just a basic outline of things you will need to do. Believe me it's no easy task and just when you think you have it all in order something else will come up. I wish you the best and hope you have a successful tournament. One last thing look at other tournaments being held that are about the size you are predicting and see what they are doing. I have gotten pamplets on all kinds of tournaments to draw ideas from.

[MotherNature]

Stony,

you can also take a look here http://ultimatebass.com/content/category/3/101/183/, there are several articles for bass clubs on open tournaments. Most of them were writen by members of the forum and site and might be of some help.

Laurie