Hey Humper’s, Thanks for watching this week’s show. I’m sure this one will get many different opinions. Please remember to LIKE this video & Subscribe. Check out Jacob Foutz’s TH-cam channel - youtube.com/@jacobfoutzfishing?si=8OwjjNiJePtM7QAQ
I think if he showed that shiny dome more often, the sponsors would be lining up. Also, as a fan, we want to see the human side of the people we watch. Watching the struggles makes the victories that much sweeter. Watching these last couple of Jacob Foutz videos makes me want to root for him.
Jaccob is a wonderful human being who my son and myself have fished with many times, he is going to go far in life and with bass. Thank him for being truthful and opening up so young anglers can realize what is happening
Thanks for watching James, Jacob is a great young angler but to be clear nothing is happening. The sport has always been the same. Almost nobody makes a living just from purely tournament results. You need to hustle. TH-cam is just the current spot in the past it was TV Shows, Seminars & Magazine articles. Thanks for watching
Jacob was truthful about pro fishing....I understand him when he doesn't like to do social media....talent should be counted, but it has changed so much so he needs to do more to get more $$$. I like this guy and I wish him the best!!!
@@factsoffishingso tournament fishing, especially at the highest level isnt more expensive NOW than it's ever been? Jacob's situation was created by the incredible overhead that it takes to compete as well as the sponsorship money being stretched thinner than ever by the multiple "pro" circuits.
The kid just needed a great mentor help him get the right mind set and on the right path to succeed. Not all kids are taught how to be successful. Having a mentor helps all of us. Great job Dave . I feel like you mentored him without him even realizing it.
Dave, I am so thankful you reached out to him. I saw his first video and his follow-up. I left him comments on both with what little advice and wisdom I have in marketing and life. I read the other comments at the time, which was maybe 20, most very supportive. Then the videos blew up 💯💣💥 I was him at one time (only 25). A cold calling salesman. Zero experience, guaranteed 1 year commission with new clients, new territory, new products, and 1 chance. Somebody took a chance on me. I couldn't make it without changing or growing. I learned "How to win Friends & Influence People" Dale Carnegie Now, Jacob has taken the first steps. I love a success story and seeing it play out... Thank you for supporting the next generation, Dave... Godspeed 🍺🎣
How can you not love this mans honesty and letting it all hang out. Not many guys will allow the fans to know how tough this industry is and the struggle chasing a dream is. This guy better pick up some new sponsors because he’s racking up a new fan base as we speak.
I think the industry needs two things: 1. A seminar called "So You Want to be a Pro Angler" where they explain that your job has two parts. The first part is high stakes gambling. The second part is entertainer. You must have income from entertainment side because in gambling, the house always wins. 2. A bootcamp for new Elite/BPT anglers that explains all the things not related to fishing that are required to do this job. I don't think those necessarily have to be provided by BASS and MLF. They could be privately run. I appreciate Jacob sharing his story. Twenty-Five is an age when I did a lot of career soul searching and many other people I know went through the same thing. Dave, has there ever been a discussion about gambling addiction in pro fishing? I wonder if that's why so many moths are attracted to the flame.
Great show as always. I hope Jacob’s future is bright. Takes a lot for a 25 year old quiet guy/introvert to speak up to the public. Good for you dude. I hope you get 10x the new sponsors to replace the ones that left you just for being honest. Tons of value in a honest, real person these days
If this dude had a strong mentor on how to be a professional and not a fishermen, Jacob would be further ahead than today. Jacob Foutz doesn't need help on how to catch a bass. But if this conversation would happen between these guys on a weekly basis, we would see big changes for Jacob. Dave Mercer has lit a fire in this kid and this podcasts have helped Jacob grow as a man. The tough questions asked brought him out of his comfort zone and Dave knew exactly what he was doing. I hope Dave keeps reaching out to him, because there is a great connection. Dave Mercer is honest and very positive. Best podcast on social media!!!
It seems redundant that after each episode I think to myself "man that was Mercers best podacst yet!"....and then when I heard Jacob was going to be this weeks guest I knew this one would be interesting...and special. WHAT A BREATHE OF FRESH AIR THIS KID IS!!!! I hope he sticks around for a long time because it's going to be really fun and enjoyable to watch him grow/mature, on and off the water, as an angler and as a person in life. Seeing Zaldain support him, reading the email I got back from Millertech after I sent them a message about how stand up it was of them to continue standing by him and now you Dave, giving this kid some exposure on your platform and the positive reinforcement he's getting by taking a very hard and very big risk of letting the world really get to know him a little more by you having him on, this is one of those times where I actually love the internet and don't hate it. Did you notice after you touched on the "I don't care" he never said it again the rest of the podacst? Jacob is smart, eager, knows exactly who he is and exactly who he is not. That could be very dangerous for the rest of the Elites!!!!!
Thanks so much Gary, your kind words mean a lot to me. I wish Jacob nothing but great success moving forward. I did also notice that & I am glad you did too
It took a lot of courage for this young man to express his fillings. He’s a hammer if he’s on the elite’s. I think he will become even a better person and gain some confidence for the tears to come. Enjoy your podcasts…..
I watched Jacob’s last 3 videos and subscribed after the first. He had about 800 subscribers at the time and I’ve been watching his subscription numbers daily since. I felt like he did the right thing and am glad to hear that he’s doing better. I’m looking forward to following his progress.
I wasn't a fan after his videos came out, but I wanted to give him an honest shot on the podcast. The guide comments still don't sit well with me, and looks like he has a ton of open dates and isn't willing to book weekends. That lack of work ethic in the guiding seems to bleed through into his sponsorship relationships and ultimately into every part of life. I'd have no problem supporting someone if I feel like they are busting ass and trying hard to make it work, but to be honest I'm not sure he really knows what hard work is (not totally his fault, BASS does a good job selling the "dream"). As of now I would have zero desire to book a guide trip with him, and if I was in the sponsorship game I wouldn't be extending any offers. Hoping he can catch them next year, I don't see how the elites will work out unless he starts getting some wins.
Interesting that the only sponsors he mentions are his past sponsors and none of the ones he has now. The sponsors want to hear and see their name constantly! Look at the tv commercials?? The most successful companies are airing their commercials again and again. And how did he not know that he needs to market himself before he got into the Elites? With all the exposure he’s had I don’t understand it? I wish him well and success and hopefully he can turn this thing around. He needs to start talking to the guys who haven’t won much but are at the closer to the top sponsor dollars. He’s being talked about now because people like the frame and drama sells. But I think at some point he’s going to wish he didn’t have these videos floating around.
Jacob has a fan in me now for sure! I love someone who goes against the grain and shows it isn’t perfect. Keep grinding and prove to yourself you belong👊🏼
Glad you had Jacob on. I commend him for speaking the truth. Standing up is sometimes worth the risk. Glad to hear Jordan is coming back! Hopefully many more will make their way back
Best thing he ever did humble honest guy come on sponsors if this guy talks about a product people will actually believe him at his word . Good luck jacob foutz takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there like that .
The hardest thing to do in life is change the limits of your safety net. You have changed those limits with your videos. Nothing but respect for telling the truth about it all. You having a set of brass sinkers big enough to say those things should say a lot to sponsors. You eliminated those sponsors that dont have the same set of sinkers you do. Those sponsors that do will be in touch.
I think his video struck some people because it was “raw” and unpolished. But at the same time real. How many 25 year olds have $90-$120 K of their own money to pay into fishing for 2 years. It will be interesting to see his vids and how much it actually costs to fish a full season. Thanks for another great show Dave!
So I will say that I appreciate his honesty. I will also say that he does have to be careful with what he says like you told him Dave. What I mean is if I hear him say I don’t like guiding because I don’t like people, that’s not someone I am gonna want to hire as a guide. I also may not want to walk up to him and ask for a picture or anything like that. Also, I may not want to sponsor someone who isn’t going to want to engage with fans or is gonna hate doing it. I’m sponsoring you because I feel like you are gonna give me a return on my investment. I’ve read comments where they say he is a great guy. Just has to be careful.
Dave you are the industries psychologist no doubt about it you always take time to talk to people never turn anybody away no matter how famous or average person you are there is a lot of guidance you give a lot of people with what you say whether your on stage when the angler has a bad day or after hours from the tournament a lot of people have listened more than you'll ever know Dave you are a Ambassador for the industry
Thanks Claude, I can’t thank you enough for the kind words. I am screen grabbing this to read when I have a bad day 😂. I truly appreciate your kindness and support
What young anglers should take from him is if you are in college, take public speaking or marketing classes. In this world that we live in, you are competing all the time. Jobs, playing time, partners ect. There are always people that will want what you are wanting so you have to be willing to do more to succeed. Even if it takes you out of your comfort zone
AMEN!!! That is 100% the take away. Thank you for seeing it. A dream job is hard and you can’t pick and choose the parts you like or don’t like, because there are way to many others delivering on all aspects of the job.
My daughter played college soccer and is about to start med school at ohio st. I started telling her at a young age I don’t want to hear you say “ I wish” because the more you say things like that it takes time away from “ I am going to do” I would hear soccer parents grumble that their kid wasn’t playing enough and make excuses and I would ask “ what was little Kate doing at 5 this morning before school?” They would say sleeping…. Ok mine was getting a 2 mile run in. I think it’s important as parents to support kids early in whatever they choose to do, we always told her it is our job to give you everything you need to succeed and it’s your job to take what has been given and get the job done. No excuses no calling off no I’m to tired. Jacob hit the nail on the head when he said you can’t be average. Hard work is rewarded and closed mouths don’t get fed are 2 of the best things I’ve ever learned lol
wow can i be honest . I have not fished my local tournaments this last year but Jacob makes me want to go out and go for AOY next season what an inspiration ! Challenge accepted !
I like this kid hopefully he finds a way to work this out . If he could work out the financial issues and focus on fishing he will definitely succeed on the elite series
Thank you for another great one Mr. Mercer. Great to listen to an open honest conversation. You gave alot of words of wisdom to this young man. Not saying you are old Mercer! Hahaha
Thanks Grant, I appreciate your kind words. I hope I helped Jacob a bit. Ultimately it’s up to him to show how much he wants it and put in the work. Some of the most successful pros on tour are insanely busy in the off season chasing deals. Nothing comes to you without workin for it. P.S I am old
Hey Dave you keep it real and Jacob is the real deal I'm glad he's telling the truth. To many 2 face back stabbing un truthful people now days so it's great to see a young man having balls and speaking the truth. Thanks for a great show bro.
This entire topic is so intriguing for a casual fan to me, and it is very great to hear it transparently from an Elite Angler. What is tough with this issue of the top-level anglers on the Elite Series, which would be the equivalent to the MLB in baseball is that the revenue is purely off of selling product. There are no ticket sales, no merchandise such as jerseys, no major TV revenue; so how can you pay the anglers better... It seems like the best way would be to incorporate fan experiences into the tournaments like the Bassmaster Classic does. Combine expos with the tournaments so fans have something to do while the anglers are fishing, charge admission and use that money to add to reduce entry fees to the tournaments without reducing payouts. On top of benefiting the fans and anglers, companies will get an opportunity to sell the products as they are simultaneously being used on the lakes that the local customers will be fishing.
Kudos!! As the director of NE TX BASS Nation Youth I’ve had multiple parents recently come to me concerned about their child’s desire to become an Elite pro. I’ve pointed them to Jacob’s vids. I’ve always tried to point kids to get an education, get that safety net and maybe get a job in the fishing industry. Then maybe try to pursue fishing tournaments and beyond. The struggle is real.
The highs and lows of this sport that we all love! Life can be a roller-coaster we all have to just hold on and enjoy the ride. (Life is school) tight lines fellas🎣
I was really impressed with the way you build him up without really building him up. Very impressive Dave. One day he will thank you for that. Great show as always!!
@kacoonass -great comment. I haven’t watched many of Daves podcasts yet, but that’s what impressed me most. They way he supported his guest without letting him off the hook if something contradicting was said or go too easy on him in the spot light. Kept it real.
Great stuff. I knew you would nail it. You were very tactful in guiding him to be more careful with the little things we say that people tend to blow up into bigger things than they are. Great job Mercer!
Man I'm looking forward to more content from Jacob. I love the keeping it real videos and stuff and to maybe have some fishing, practice, tournament prep, vlog-" Ballin on a budget" type videos or whatever it'll be great! Showing how the "working man/ people's hero" type guy makes this all work would be amazing to see.
Awesome discussion with Jacob. I think it was/is fantastic he came on your show, answered all the questions with honesty, great job of explaining where his first video came from (his history) and always owning his story. I do hope he heard U tell him quit saying he doesn’t care! I am one of his new subscribers. Will be very interesting to see his financial “trip” this coming BASS tourney season.
Thanks for having Jacob on Dave, I hope he is well on his of digging himself out of the hole he is in. Isn't the reason the Opens went to the EQ's so Elite qualifiers would have a more realistic idea of what being on the Elites would be? P.S. congratulations to Boyd for not getting cut again. 😂😂
Dave you bring it every week I love your pod cast! What do you say in a couple weeks you get that Dunkin fellow on your show ? 😅 It could be your year end finally 🎉🎉 just kidding buddy!
Thanks glad you enjoy the show. As far as your guest request that dude has gotten everything he will ever get from me. Fool me once shame on you fool me twice shame on me.
If you go back and watch the early Bassmasters shows … very few were camera savvy. Clunn was quiet and tried to get off the stage as soon as possible.. if anything to keep a secret , but the landscape has changed . Winning the Classic is still the classic but it’s likely not the financial windfall in endorsements it once was … and in a way that’s sad . I do believe the industry is gonna have to pony up more funds for the tournaments. Anglers are struggling and Foutz brought it front and center .
Back in the early BASS days there was not a 1/4 of the pros so the ability to entertain was not near as important. It’s the same in fishing TV and most things today
When I saw video 2 last week I knew I had to go to the first one. I immediately subscribed and if I ever win the lottery, this dude will never have to worry about Elite entry fees again. I hope to Marshal at Murray next spring and will want to shake his hand. And yours too Dave!!
Jacob is a talented Angler, as stated that's what got him where he is. Hopefully a few good companies get behind him and help him with the career struggles.
What sport (or job in life) is a bed of roses? Sports is a little like being self employed - you make money the old fashioned way - you EARN it. And that's a GOOD thing in my opinion.
Technical comment: it probably doesn't affect a lot of people, but your audio filter is so clean that it makes actual silent spots. Most Bluetooth speakers, including mine, see that completely dead air and go to sleep for a few milliseconds until needed again. The result is that your words are often clipped when starting to speak, every sentence. If you can change something so you are not cleaning your background audio fully or even had the slightest white noise mixed or music happening, it would keep the audio feed continuous. The same thing happens with audiobooks. Some are produced so cleanly that there are spaces of absolute silence between words, causing the same thing, word-clipping. Thanks!
Sounds like a good kid. I hope the best for him. Sounds like he was given something to run with, but didn’t maintain it. Hopefully this experience taught him he needs to work and stop expecting stuff to be given to him.
I would have thought Jacob kinda knew the money aspect before starting. Maybe he didn’t know and thought it was automatic if he made the Elites . What I mean is once you make Elites regardless of how well you do in a tournament you still make enough to make a living. I agree and wish it was that way because it should be. If you make it to a professional level of a sport you should at least make enough to pay your bills and then some. Unfortunately professional bass fishing has never been like that and it should be. That is what bothered me more than anything is when he said I don’t like people. It might be great to be open and honest but that is the very last thing you want to ever say in any occupation. I am glad he kinda clarified that comment some what. The way you say I don’t care sounds like you don’t give a damn about anything or anyone. I promise you that is why those sponsors did that. It was 100% “ I don’t like people “part that upset them. Everything else you said was okay. I would bet if that sentence had been left out of the video there never would have been a text from the sponsor. Edit: I think him learning how to verbalize some of these frustrations a little better. I think he sometimes says something but people might take it the wrong way. Especially the people thing!
Great interview glad you got him on your show will give him more exposure I think he will have the drive to be successful next season seems to be getting more positive hopefully he's picks up some good sponsors young man has at lot on his shoulders and fighting for his place. Be praying for his success.
My only critique of Jacob's statements is the, "I Don't Care's". I think that's bad statement overall. He obviously DOES care about a lot of things fishing, or else he wouldn't be where he is. Perhaps a better choice of words, while still getting his point across would serve him well. Some companies / sponsors don't mind controversial characters . . . but the "I Don't Care", may be a deal breaker for some. Just food for thought. (Edit-I typed that at the begining of the video . . . Mercer picked up on that too & nailed it ! )
I don't believe after Dave pointed that out, Jacob didn't say "I don't care" again. Quick learner and the point was taken. I have fished with Jacob several times this summer on guides. He is a helluva guide and an even better person.
I’ve been waiting years for a pro to tell it like it is good or bad. He’s got a new follower from me if he is going to continue to share the behind the scenes of a tournament angler
Hes just feeling the heat of the fact that you spend more money than most people make in a year just to fish tournaments and possibly not make any money. But its been that way forever.
I’m a so so fan and had never heard of him until this. I get it from the sponsors side too in that it’s their money and are entitled to invest as smart as that can.
I believe the fantasy fishing stuff is the reason I know of him. other than that I wouldn't probably. there's no reason that bass of mlf can't give a base pay. bass n mlf make a decent profit of there anglers they get sponsor dollars,communities pay for bass n mfl to have a tournament. if they want it to be called a sport then pay your players are just call yourself casino
Dave is such a class act having this guy on.. I do think that organizations like BASS should have a new angler class on how to handle themselves/sponsorships, sort of an apprenticeship program. It would help the org and the anglers brand. Hopefully he can turn it around and find his way.
Awesome Video as usual….Foutz Take is humbling and kinda scary….The only way I can afford this is with a full time job….Fishing the Toyotas and Opens is a BEAST!!
Hopefully he can get everything working and together. He seems like a good young man. The biggest negative to me was the whole guiding part. You should be excited to take folks out fishing and share that with them. Pump them up so to speak. I’m also sure you get plenty of a holes also. Great show!
We are all rooting for you Jacob. You represent all of us who dream of being in your position, but know the reality that it takes to get there. Keep pushing. You got this
Some sponsors are going to appreciate this guy's honesty and integrity. I can't stand the showboaters like Wheeler and his type. It reminds me of snake oil salesmen. I would never purchase products from showboaters. They're not sincere and honest. I'll be watching Jacob Foutz. Good luck
Dave you fo hoast and deliver a quality show, His passion for the sport has driven him to the top, and caring about everything, except the negatives, his fame brought, could be not caring, in a Suttle way, throwing rock's at Shiney things is our, society.
Just imagine, who would ever make a video with that title 😂. At least you know I am always watching th-cam.com/video/mnQaMDAxnbM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=EWCjkudBwbnVp4T_
Hey Humper’s, Thanks for watching this week’s show. I’m sure this one will get many different opinions. Please remember to LIKE this video & Subscribe.
Check out Jacob Foutz’s TH-cam channel - youtube.com/@jacobfoutzfishing?si=8OwjjNiJePtM7QAQ
We praise him for his honesty, and no one needs or should frown on this man
I think if he showed that shiny dome more often, the sponsors would be lining up. Also, as a fan, we want to see the human side of the people we watch. Watching the struggles makes the victories that much sweeter. Watching these last couple of Jacob Foutz videos makes me want to root for him.
Then his videos did there job. And hey leave bald people alone 😂
Jaccob is a wonderful human being who my son and myself have fished with many times, he is going to go far in life and with bass. Thank him for being truthful and opening up so young anglers can realize what is happening
Thanks for watching James, Jacob is a great young angler but to be clear nothing is happening. The sport has always been the same. Almost nobody makes a living just from purely tournament results. You need to hustle. TH-cam is just the current spot in the past it was TV Shows, Seminars & Magazine articles. Thanks for watching
Jacob was truthful about pro fishing....I understand him when he doesn't like to do social media....talent should be counted, but it has changed so much so he needs to do more to get more $$$. I like this guy and I wish him the best!!!
@@jamesmurphy1040 it’s a very competitive job you can’t pick and choose what you like to do.
@@factsoffishingso tournament fishing, especially at the highest level isnt more expensive NOW than it's ever been? Jacob's situation was created by the incredible overhead that it takes to compete as well as the sponsorship money being stretched thinner than ever by the multiple "pro" circuits.
The kid just needed a great mentor help him get the right mind set and on the right path to succeed. Not all kids are taught how to be successful. Having a mentor helps all of us. Great job Dave . I feel like you mentored him without him even realizing it.
Thank you mr Dave for bringing him on your show
Thanks glad you enjoy.
Dave, I am so thankful you reached out to him. I saw his first video and his follow-up. I left him comments on both with what little advice and wisdom I have in marketing and life. I read the other comments at the time, which was maybe 20, most very supportive. Then the videos blew up 💯💣💥
I was him at one time (only 25). A cold calling salesman. Zero experience, guaranteed 1 year commission with new clients, new territory, new products, and 1 chance. Somebody took a chance on me. I couldn't make it without changing or growing. I learned "How to win Friends & Influence People" Dale Carnegie
Now, Jacob has taken the first steps. I love a success story and seeing it play out...
Thank you for supporting the next generation, Dave... Godspeed 🍺🎣
Thanks Shane, You nailed it, you have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable to grow in any job.
Someone commented on one of the videos " Jacob is not as good as he thinks, he is much better than he thinks" . That is the absolute truth! Great Dude
How can you not love this mans honesty and letting it all hang out. Not many guys will allow the fans to know how tough this industry is and the struggle chasing a dream is. This guy better pick up some new sponsors because he’s racking up a new fan base as we speak.
Let’s hope so
I think the industry needs two things:
1. A seminar called "So You Want to be a Pro Angler" where they explain that your job has two parts. The first part is high stakes gambling. The second part is entertainer. You must have income from entertainment side because in gambling, the house always wins.
2. A bootcamp for new Elite/BPT anglers that explains all the things not related to fishing that are required to do this job.
I don't think those necessarily have to be provided by BASS and MLF. They could be privately run.
I appreciate Jacob sharing his story. Twenty-Five is an age when I did a lot of career soul searching and many other people I know went through the same thing.
Dave, has there ever been a discussion about gambling addiction in pro fishing? I wonder if that's why so many moths are attracted to the flame.
Great show as always. I hope Jacob’s future is bright. Takes a lot for a 25 year old quiet guy/introvert to speak up to the public. Good for you dude. I hope you get 10x the new sponsors to replace the ones that left you just for being honest. Tons of value in a honest, real person these days
Let’s hope it works for him. At least he did his job and got noticed
I am a new fan of Jacob Foutz.....I like this guy's honesty
If this dude had a strong mentor on how to be a professional and not a fishermen, Jacob would be further ahead than today. Jacob Foutz doesn't need help on how to catch a bass. But if this conversation would happen between these guys on a weekly basis, we would see big changes for Jacob. Dave Mercer has lit a fire in this kid and this podcasts have helped Jacob grow as a man. The tough questions asked brought him out of his comfort zone and Dave knew exactly what he was doing. I hope Dave keeps reaching out to him, because there is a great connection. Dave Mercer is honest and very positive. Best podcast on social media!!!
Dave did you notice after you told him to stop saying I don't care, he never said it again on the show! Respect this guy so much
This family has subscribed to you , got new fans from what you stood up for , your honesty
Redz you are a great supporter of everything fishing. Thanks
It seems redundant that after each episode I think to myself "man that was Mercers best podacst yet!"....and then when I heard Jacob was going to be this weeks guest I knew this one would be interesting...and special. WHAT A BREATHE OF FRESH AIR THIS KID IS!!!! I hope he sticks around for a long time because it's going to be really fun and enjoyable to watch him grow/mature, on and off the water, as an angler and as a person in life. Seeing Zaldain support him, reading the email I got back from Millertech after I sent them a message about how stand up it was of them to continue standing by him and now you Dave, giving this kid some exposure on your platform and the positive reinforcement he's getting by taking a very hard and very big risk of letting the world really get to know him a little more by you having him on, this is one of those times where I actually love the internet and don't hate it. Did you notice after you touched on the "I don't care" he never said it again the rest of the podacst? Jacob is smart, eager, knows exactly who he is and exactly who he is not. That could be very dangerous for the rest of the Elites!!!!!
Thanks so much Gary, your kind words mean a lot to me. I wish Jacob nothing but great success moving forward. I did also notice that & I am glad you did too
It took a lot of courage for this young man to express his fillings. He’s a hammer if he’s on the elite’s. I think he will become even a better person and gain some confidence for the tears to come. Enjoy your podcasts…..
Years
Dave, another good one, I think you gave Jacob lots of positive guidance!!
Thanks Robert, I tried too
I watched Jacob’s last 3 videos and subscribed after the first. He had about 800 subscribers at the time and I’ve been watching his subscription numbers daily since. I felt like he did the right thing and am glad to hear that he’s doing better. I’m looking forward to following his progress.
Thanks for supporting him Ed.
I wasn't a fan after his videos came out, but I wanted to give him an honest shot on the podcast. The guide comments still don't sit well with me, and looks like he has a ton of open dates and isn't willing to book weekends. That lack of work ethic in the guiding seems to bleed through into his sponsorship relationships and ultimately into every part of life.
I'd have no problem supporting someone if I feel like they are busting ass and trying hard to make it work, but to be honest I'm not sure he really knows what hard work is (not totally his fault, BASS does a good job selling the "dream"). As of now I would have zero desire to book a guide trip with him, and if I was in the sponsorship game I wouldn't be extending any offers.
Hoping he can catch them next year, I don't see how the elites will work out unless he starts getting some wins.
Interesting that the only sponsors he mentions are his past sponsors and none of the ones he has now. The sponsors want to hear and see their name constantly! Look at the tv commercials?? The most successful companies are airing their commercials again and again. And how did he not know that he needs to market himself before he got into the Elites? With all the exposure he’s had I don’t understand it? I wish him well and success and hopefully he can turn this thing around. He needs to start talking to the guys who haven’t won much but are at the closer to the top sponsor dollars. He’s being talked about now because people like the frame and drama sells. But I think at some point he’s going to wish he didn’t have these videos floating around.
Jacob has a fan in me now for sure! I love someone who goes against the grain and shows it isn’t perfect. Keep grinding and prove to yourself you belong👊🏼
Mr. Mercer,
You Sir are a Class Act!
Thank you very much. Thanks for watching
Thanks for having him on Dave!
No problem. I hope it helped him
Thanks Mercer for bringing him on. He’s honest and only speaking on his experiences. I’ve subscribed and will be following both channels.
Thanks for the support
Looking forward to watching Jacob this year as he is one of my favorites
👊🏻
Glad you had Jacob on. I commend him for speaking the truth. Standing up is sometimes worth the risk. Glad to hear Jordan is coming back! Hopefully many more will make their way back
Thanks Jim, Glad you enjoyed this show.
Best thing he ever did humble honest guy come on sponsors if this guy talks about a product people will actually believe him at his word . Good luck jacob foutz takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there like that .
Jacob was being totally honest which is rare. I think he will continue to rise in the industry both on and off the water.
Let’s hope so
The hardest thing to do in life is change the limits of your safety net. You have changed those limits with your videos. Nothing but respect for telling the truth about it all. You having a set of brass sinkers big enough to say those things should say a lot to sponsors. You eliminated those sponsors that dont have the same set of sinkers you do. Those sponsors that do will be in touch.
Great to have Jordan back! This year is adding up to be pretty epic!
Should be a fun one
I think his video struck some people because it was “raw” and unpolished. But at the same time real. How many 25 year olds have $90-$120 K of their own money to pay into fishing for 2 years. It will be interesting to see his vids and how much it actually costs to fish a full season. Thanks for another great show Dave!
Thanks for watching Richie, Being real & being honest is always a good approach to most things. I appreciate you watching & commenting
So I will say that I appreciate his honesty. I will also say that he does have to be careful with what he says like you told him Dave. What I mean is if I hear him say I don’t like guiding because I don’t like people, that’s not someone I am gonna want to hire as a guide. I also may not want to walk up to him and ask for a picture or anything like that. Also, I may not want to sponsor someone who isn’t going to want to engage with fans or is gonna hate doing it. I’m sponsoring you because I feel like you are gonna give me a return on my investment. I’ve read comments where they say he is a great guy. Just has to be careful.
Jacob Foutz is real. And I’d love to book a guide trip with him so I could learn some things about bass fishing techniques.
I’m sure he would love to take you out. That’s real support 👊🏻
Dave you are the industries psychologist no doubt about it you always take time to talk to people never turn anybody away no matter how famous or average person you are there is a lot of guidance you give a lot of people with what you say whether your on stage when the angler has a bad day or after hours from the tournament a lot of people have listened more than you'll ever know Dave you are a Ambassador for the industry
Thanks Claude, I can’t thank you enough for the kind words. I am screen grabbing this to read when I have a bad day 😂. I truly appreciate your kindness and support
What young anglers should take from him is if you are in college, take public speaking or marketing classes. In this world that we live in, you are competing all the time. Jobs, playing time, partners ect. There are always people that will want what you are wanting so you have to be willing to do more to succeed. Even if it takes you out of your comfort zone
AMEN!!! That is 100% the take away. Thank you for seeing it. A dream job is hard and you can’t pick and choose the parts you like or don’t like, because there are way to many others delivering on all aspects of the job.
My daughter played college soccer and is about to start med school at ohio st. I started telling her at a young age I don’t want to hear you say “ I wish” because the more you say things like that it takes time away from “ I am going to do” I would hear soccer parents grumble that their kid wasn’t playing enough and make excuses and I would ask “ what was little Kate doing at 5 this morning before school?” They would say sleeping…. Ok mine was getting a 2 mile run in. I think it’s important as parents to support kids early in whatever they choose to do, we always told her it is our job to give you everything you need to succeed and it’s your job to take what has been given and get the job done. No excuses no calling off no I’m to tired. Jacob hit the nail on the head when he said you can’t be average. Hard work is rewarded and closed mouths don’t get fed are 2 of the best things I’ve ever learned lol
Great show Dave...you helped Jacob immensely with this.....
Thanks & I hope so 🤞
Excellent piece brother. He's wise beyond his years. Great work Dave
Woot woot!!! Hell yeah glad to be a humper Dave. I still say mercer for president. Your officially a canadiamerican.
Thanks Ernie, I appreciate the support. Politics ummm no thank you 😂
wow can i be honest . I have not fished my local tournaments this last year but Jacob makes me want to go out and go for AOY next season what an inspiration ! Challenge accepted !
I like this kid hopefully he finds a way to work this out . If he could work out the financial issues and focus on fishing he will definitely succeed on the elite series
Thank you for another great one Mr. Mercer. Great to listen to an open honest conversation. You gave alot of words of wisdom to this young man. Not saying you are old Mercer! Hahaha
Thanks Grant, I appreciate your kind words. I hope I helped Jacob a bit. Ultimately it’s up to him to show how much he wants it and put in the work. Some of the most successful pros on tour are insanely busy in the off season chasing deals. Nothing comes to you without workin for it. P.S I am old
This podcast is amazing, from the start ive loved it. You get the best people and the best comments. As a humper i am proud 👏
Thanks very much. The only thing better than a Humper is a proud humper 😂
Hey Dave you keep it real and Jacob is the real deal I'm glad he's telling the truth. To many 2 face back stabbing un truthful people now days so it's great to see a young man having balls and speaking the truth. Thanks for a great show bro.
Thanks glad you enjoyed it Michael
Dave Segar-Mercer!! love it! and welcome back, Jo Lee!!🎉🎉🎉
This entire topic is so intriguing for a casual fan to me, and it is very great to hear it transparently from an Elite Angler. What is tough with this issue of the top-level anglers on the Elite Series, which would be the equivalent to the MLB in baseball is that the revenue is purely off of selling product. There are no ticket sales, no merchandise such as jerseys, no major TV revenue; so how can you pay the anglers better... It seems like the best way would be to incorporate fan experiences into the tournaments like the Bassmaster Classic does. Combine expos with the tournaments so fans have something to do while the anglers are fishing, charge admission and use that money to add to reduce entry fees to the tournaments without reducing payouts. On top of benefiting the fans and anglers, companies will get an opportunity to sell the products as they are simultaneously being used on the lakes that the local customers will be fishing.
I wish Jacob the best!! Keep doing what you do best, the rest will come.
Big fan (Humper😝) of the show Dave! Looking forward to next season and will be pulling for Jacob to do well.
Thanks i appreciate you being a humper. I hope to see you here next Wednesday
Kudos!! As the director of NE TX BASS Nation Youth I’ve had multiple parents recently come to me concerned about their child’s desire to become an Elite pro. I’ve pointed them to Jacob’s vids. I’ve always tried to point kids to get an education, get that safety net and maybe get a job in the fishing industry. Then maybe try to pursue fishing tournaments and beyond. The struggle is real.
The highs and lows of this sport that we all love! Life can be a roller-coaster we all have to just hold on and enjoy the ride. (Life is school) tight lines fellas🎣
It would be nice for BASS to provide the Elite anglers access to a social media/brand coach.
They have done that in the past & I am sure they will again in the future
I was really impressed with the way you build him up without really building him up. Very impressive Dave. One day he will thank you for that. Great show as always!!
I sure hope so because this show was not meant to do anything else but to help him
@kacoonass -great comment. I haven’t watched many of Daves podcasts yet, but that’s what impressed me most. They way he supported his guest without letting him off the hook if something contradicting was said or go too easy on him in the spot light. Kept it real.
You just helped him a whole lot on this pod cast, if he just takes the ball and runs with it .
Thanks Patrick, I sure tried too. I hope he puts in the work off the water and he has a great future in the sport
Great stuff. I knew you would nail it. You were very tactful in guiding him to be more careful with the little things we say that people tend to blow up into bigger things than they are. Great job Mercer!
I will follow his channel. It is good to hear what he said and see a young man that owns it.
Man I'm looking forward to more content from Jacob. I love the keeping it real videos and stuff and to maybe have some fishing, practice, tournament prep, vlog-" Ballin on a budget" type videos or whatever it'll be great! Showing how the "working man/ people's hero" type guy makes this all work would be amazing to see.
I’m happy he said what was on his mind it took a lot of pressure off him. He’s going to be okay I’m rooting for him next year
Being open and honest always delivers a freedom. I hope it helps him grow as a person & a pro
I learned of his first Video from Randy Blaukat. I subscribed after watching it. Wish him well.
good for him , hope this new venture works out
Great video Dave. I watch both of his videos and subscribe after the second one. Good dude
Thanks Mark, I hope you are having a great week
I think he is a really good dude, he just got a little off track and needs to find his way. I hope he has a great year and gets it turned around.
Awesome discussion with Jacob. I think it was/is fantastic he came on your show, answered all the questions with honesty, great job of explaining where his first video came from (his history) and always owning his story. I do hope he heard U tell him quit saying he doesn’t care! I am one of his new subscribers. Will be very interesting to see his financial “trip” this coming BASS tourney season.
Thanks David, I think he will continue to learn and evolve. It will be fun to watch it happen.
Thanks for having Jacob on Dave, I hope he is well on his of digging himself out of the hole he is in. Isn't the reason the Opens went to the EQ's so Elite qualifiers would have a more realistic idea of what being on the Elites would be? P.S. congratulations to Boyd for not getting cut again. 😂😂
Straight meat and potatoes awesome episode I feel like you aired out this huge, hot controversy, happy humper here keep them coming !
Thanks glad you enjoyed it Adam.
Don’t get overwhelmed, you need to go for it , get on it give it ur all
Dave you bring it every week I love your pod cast! What do you say in a couple weeks you get that Dunkin fellow on your show ? 😅 It could be your year end finally 🎉🎉 just kidding buddy!
Thanks glad you enjoy the show. As far as your guest request that dude has gotten everything he will ever get from me. Fool me once shame on you fool me twice shame on me.
If you go back and watch the early Bassmasters shows … very few were camera savvy. Clunn was quiet and tried to get off the stage as soon as possible.. if anything to keep a secret , but the landscape has changed . Winning the Classic is still the classic but it’s likely not the financial windfall in endorsements it once was … and in a way that’s sad . I do believe the industry is gonna have to pony up more funds for the tournaments. Anglers are struggling and Foutz brought it front and center .
Back in the early BASS days there was not a 1/4 of the pros so the ability to entertain was not near as important. It’s the same in fishing TV and most things today
Great interview with Jacob, hope the best for you and him God Bless😊
When I saw video 2 last week I knew I had to go to the first one. I immediately subscribed and if I ever win the lottery, this dude will never have to worry about Elite entry fees again. I hope to Marshal at Murray next spring and will want to shake his hand. And yours too Dave!!
Dave your show is fun to listen to, can’t wait for the season to start. Go Jacob
Thanks Kim, I really appreciate your support and kind words
Jacob is a talented Angler, as stated that's what got him where he is. Hopefully a few good companies get behind him and help him with the career struggles.
👊🏻
What sport (or job in life) is a bed of roses? Sports is a little like being self employed - you make money the old fashioned way - you EARN it. And that's a GOOD thing in my opinion.
Technical comment: it probably doesn't affect a lot of people, but your audio filter is so clean that it makes actual silent spots. Most Bluetooth speakers, including mine, see that completely dead air and go to sleep for a few milliseconds until needed again. The result is that your words are often clipped when starting to speak, every sentence. If you can change something so you are not cleaning your background audio fully or even had the slightest white noise mixed or music happening, it would keep the audio feed continuous.
The same thing happens with audiobooks. Some are produced so cleanly that there are spaces of absolute silence between words, causing the same thing, word-clipping.
Thanks!
Great podcast Dave! Jacob is a true pro and he will prevail in 2024! I wish nothing but Blessings upon him and you too Dave!
Sounds like a good kid. I hope the best for him. Sounds like he was given something to run with, but didn’t maintain it. Hopefully this experience taught him he needs to work and stop expecting stuff to be given to him.
And it sounds like he has
Let’s hope this week was a big step in the right direction
Great show as always Dave. Keep up the great work.
I can only hope more anglers on the professional level start doing this and start standing up together to change the industy as a whole
I would have thought Jacob kinda knew the money aspect before starting. Maybe he didn’t know and thought it was automatic if he made the Elites . What I mean is once you make Elites regardless of how well you do in a tournament you still make enough to make a living. I agree and wish it was that way because it should be. If you make it to a professional level of a sport you should at least make enough to pay your bills and then some. Unfortunately professional bass fishing has never been like that and it should be. That is what bothered me more than anything is when he said I don’t like people. It might be great to be open and honest but that is the very last thing you want to ever say in any occupation. I am glad he kinda clarified that comment some what. The way you say I don’t care sounds like you don’t give a damn about anything or anyone. I promise you that is why those sponsors did that. It was 100% “ I don’t like people “part that upset them. Everything else you said was okay. I would bet if that sentence had been left out of the video there never would have been a text from the sponsor. Edit: I think him learning how to verbalize some of these frustrations a little better. I think he sometimes says something but people might take it the wrong way. Especially the people thing!
I think Jacob may be right about being the youngest classic qualifier. That's quite an accomplishment either way though.
Great interview glad you got him on your show will give him more exposure I think he will have the drive to be successful next season seems to be getting more positive hopefully he's picks up some good sponsors young man has at lot on his shoulders and fighting for his place. Be praying for his success.
Jacob sounds like a great person
"THANK YOU DUDE I'M HANGING UP ON YOU RIGHT NOW"🤣🤣🤣 Dave your a trip😅😂😅
Glad you enjoyed that part 😂
He’s developing his brand which fills a big gap out there. Mr Everyman, I am a new subscriber to your channel.
Thanks for supporting Jacob. I hope you subscribed here too
My only critique of Jacob's statements is the, "I Don't Care's". I think that's bad statement overall.
He obviously DOES care about a lot of things fishing, or else he wouldn't be where he is.
Perhaps a better choice of words, while still getting his point across would serve him well.
Some companies / sponsors don't mind controversial characters . . . but the "I Don't Care", may be a deal breaker for some.
Just food for thought.
(Edit-I typed that at the begining of the video . . . Mercer picked up on that too & nailed it ! )
I don't believe after Dave pointed that out, Jacob didn't say "I don't care" again. Quick learner and the point was taken. I have fished with Jacob several times this summer on guides. He is a helluva guide and an even better person.
I’ve been waiting years for a pro to tell it like it is good or bad. He’s got a new follower from me if he is going to continue to share the behind the scenes of a tournament angler
Hes just feeling the heat of the fact that you spend more money than most people make in a year just to fish tournaments and possibly not make any money. But its been that way forever.
I'm a bass fan and for sponsors to think we dont know who JACOB FOUTZ is from a fan standard but his name was noticeable specially in fantasy fishing.
I’m a so so fan and had never heard of him until this. I get it from the sponsors side too in that it’s their money and are entitled to invest as smart as that can.
I believe the fantasy fishing stuff is the reason I know of him. other than that I wouldn't probably. there's no reason that bass of mlf can't give a base pay. bass n mlf make a decent profit of there anglers they get sponsor dollars,communities pay for bass n mfl to have a tournament. if they want it to be called a sport then pay your players are just call yourself casino
The world loves an underdog
Dave is such a class act having this guy on..
I do think that organizations like BASS should have a new angler class on how to handle themselves/sponsorships, sort of an apprenticeship program. It would help the org and the anglers brand.
Hopefully he can turn it around and find his way.
Great video! Like Jacob said it’s not about what people think. It’s about his value as a person!
You gave him the best advice catch them ! 👍👍👍👍👍
It fixes almost every problem in pro fishing
Awesome Video as usual….Foutz Take is humbling and kinda scary….The only way I can afford this is with a full time job….Fishing the Toyotas and Opens is a BEAST!!
Hopefully he can get everything working and together. He seems like a good young man. The biggest negative to me was the whole guiding part. You should be excited to take folks out fishing and share that with them. Pump them up so to speak. I’m also sure you get plenty of a holes also. Great show!
When we are growing up watching tournaments we view it as a sport when you get there you realize it’s just a business
We are all rooting for you Jacob. You represent all of us who dream of being in your position, but know the reality that it takes to get there. Keep pushing. You got this
Thanks for watching & supporting Jacob 👊🏻
Some sponsors are going to appreciate this guy's honesty and integrity. I can't stand the showboaters like Wheeler and his type. It reminds me of snake oil salesmen. I would never purchase products from showboaters. They're not sincere and honest. I'll be watching Jacob Foutz. Good luck
Dave you fo hoast and deliver a quality show, His passion for the sport has driven him to the top, and caring about everything, except the negatives, his fame brought, could be not caring, in a Suttle way, throwing rock's at Shiney things is our, society.
I can’t get into college fishing. But I love the Elites and I’m really looking forward to the Opens next year.
So stoked that Lee is coming back,
Can you imagine somebody coming up with a Title Lile that.... "Did Jacob Foutz Cancel his Career?".... 😅
Just imagine, who would ever make a video with that title 😂. At least you know I am always watching th-cam.com/video/mnQaMDAxnbM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=EWCjkudBwbnVp4T_
Super excited to see J Lee back on the Elite Series in 2024!!!!
👍👊💪
Great show and good luck to Jacob