Lots of webmasters make good money… but only if the advertised properties make money, too.
I just read an article in Igaming review written by Sportingbet where the author stated that they were in favor of paying for life for players still, but that they resented doing so if the affiliate ceases to send new players. That’s BS, if we hadn’t sent the player they would not be making $ from the player.
Now that sort of thing is an issue. And you are right, the casinos, poker etc are spoiled by getting quite a bit of free branding. To the point to where the value of branding has been pretty much lost in this industry. But – affilates can do very well for themselves. It just takes – well – a lot of work.
If you are not making money yet, you need to ferret out why that is so. Maybe ask for a site review here on the forum?