Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry Montgomery.
Hi Henry, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Born and raised in Gainesville, FL where I attended Gainesville High School. After high school, I joined the Navy. During my time in the Navy, I served on two submarines, the USS Silversides and the USS Hampton. Even though I was in the Navy, traveling the world, I knew that this was not what I wanted to do. When I got out I went to work for Sears. This was the beginning of learning how to run my own business. Thanks to Sears, I was able to attend the regional management training that was available in my area. This training gave me the tools that I would later start my own business.
I always loved fishing. Due to my love of fishing and the help of friends I was introduced to bass fishing. The use of artificial bait to catch a fish. The very first time I used a plastic worm, I got a bite. From that point on I was hooked. My love of bass fishing grew and I was getting better and better. So I decided to fish a local tournament to see just how good I am. Needless to say, I did ok. I didn’t win but I had a lot of fun.
Fast forward two years, and now I am fishing more and more tournaments and getting better and better. I notice that I would spend a lot of money on fishing tackle. So, I figure, if I make my own tackle and sell it I can offset the cost of tournaments. Now that I have decided to make my own tackle and sell it, I need a name for the business. A name that represents who I am as a person. Who am I? I am a Black man who is very proud to be black. From that BLANPRO began. Black and Proud.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
For me, it’s been a smooth beginning.
We’ve been impressed with Blanpro, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Blanpro makes freshwater fishing tackle. We specialize in soft plastics and custom lures. Our color selection is different from most companies.
The one thing that I am most proud of is the response that I receive on my clothing line. We only sell fishing shirts but our shirts are very unique and priced right.
One of the best deals we have is the monthly fishing shirt club. For $25 a month you will receive a Blanpro Fishing shirt. This is savings of $5 just on the shirt and the $25 does include shipping.
Beginning in June, Blanpro will offer demo rides in the same boat that I use for tournaments. That way the average person can experience what it’s like to be out on the water like a pro angler.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Be friendly to everyone you meet. You never know who is watching or who the person is that you are working with.
Contact Info:
- Website: blanprofishing.com
- Facebook: @blanprofishing
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYntlYNhdwrSqFnq7597z4A
