IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame to Induct Five from Big Game, Freshwater, Fly and Surf Fishing
OutdoorHub 03.25.13
The greatest accomplishments of sport fishing are far more extraordinary than a great catch alone. Although skill is certainly the core of the sport, the most outstanding individuals in recreational angling have also been captains, scientists, conservationists, writers, or fishing industry leaders. This year the IGFA will induct five such men and women into its Fishing Hall of Fame on October 29, 2013 at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach, Florida.
The first class, honoring 29 of sport fishing’s luminaries, was inducted in 1998. With the induction this year of Stewart Campbell, Marcel Prot, Ernest Schwiebert, Joan Vernon, and Frank Woolner, the total number of IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame members will grow to an even 100.
“One remarkable thing about our Hall of Fame – aside from the tremendous accomplishments of those we honor,” IGFA President Rob Kramer has observed, “is the variety of our honorees. Just like our organization, the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame recognizes great achievements from every place in the world, and from every discipline of fishing.”
Indeed, this year’s induction class is as varied as the world of sport fishing itself:
Stewart Campbell, considered by many as one of the world’s greatest big game anglers, with numerous world records and some of the finest crews ever assembled, was dedicated to supporting research and tagging fish, and was notoriously passionate about fishing ethics and IGFA rules.
Marcel Prot, an international angler and former president of the Big Game Fishing Club France, is very active in promoting research and angler advocacy.
Ernest Schwiebert, a pioneer in the world of fly fishing and the fishery conservation movement, was involved in the founding of Trout Unlimited and the Federation of Fly Fishers, and was best known for his extensive writings about fly-fishing, including Matching the Hatch.
Joan Vernon, an accomplished angler and active proponent of circle hooks and billfish conservation around the world, has also served as Chairwoman of both The Billfish Foundation and the International Women’s Fishing Association.
Frank Woolner, largely regarded as the master of surf fishing, was a prolific author and editor of Salt Water Sportsman. His influence shaped the content of the popular publication and encouraged many up-and-coming writers.
