Most of us have been there, and few want to be there again.  A review of the monthly bills shows that the electric bill must wait another 2 weeks in order to buy school supplies or pay the late mortgage.  Looking over the options, debt consolidation or mortgage refinancing may appear to help.  With enough equity, you can reduce your monthly outlay to creditors and still have money left over for groceries and emergencies. 

Bass anglers know this better than anyone.  For a lot of anglers, following their dreams means living month to month on credit cards, hoping for that one big win to boost them into the big league.  New boat loans, constant tackle requirements, and rising fuel pricing all begin to take their toll.  For a few with good financial sense or business degrees, fending off the creditors appears effortless.  For others, the debt hole continues to grow allowing new anglers to creep into the works each year as others go home with empty pockets returning to their 8-5 jobs. 

I am not a financial planner but I do know that owing money to a bank is never a good long term plan.  Those that continue to make it on tour year after year spend their money wisely and pay off what they can as quickly as possible.  Reinvesting winnings into equipment, and saving a percentage is the best way to ensure long term success on the tournament trail.  Several of the Pros also continue to hold down full-time jobs, ensuring a paycheck every month and continuing healthcare coverage for their families.  Travel planning for events can also assist the family budget.  Camping or selecting lower cost hotels, room sharing with other anglers, and buying groceries rather than eating out will save thousands over the course of a season. 

When choosing to make the leap into the big leads, ensure your finances are sound before taking the plunge.  Ruining your credit will surely lead to a failed attempt for a dream.