This comes up every so often on fishing forums, especially where tournament anglers tend to hang out. It came up again today on facebook. I really don't know why one angler cares so much about what another angler decides to call himself - it sure doesn't bother me if someone wants to call themselves a professional angler - regardless, this is a pretty good article about being a pro angler and I've always thought Sammy Lee is one of the nicest persons in fishing.
From FLW Outdoors 01.May.2001 by Rob Newell:
Defining a professional bass anglerHint: It's more than just good fishing skillsIn the bass-fishing industry it is assumed that the words “professional bass angler” refer to one who derives his livelihood from bass fishing. But for Sammy Lee, the label carries a connotation that runs much deeper than catching fish and cashing checks.
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FLW Outdoors.