Hall of Fame induction in 2018
In March of 2018, I was inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. located in Hayward, Wisconsin. Former northwestern Ontario resident Jay Dampier nominated me and did much of the paperwork. Thank you again Jay.
He also enlisted some support from a few industry colleagues, to whom I am indebted. The induction ceremony took place at the Northwest Sportsmen’s Show in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Saturday, March 24.
There were 13 inductees in 2018 — 12 individuals and one organization — recognized by the hall for significant and lasting contributions” to the sport and heritage of freshwater fishing.
Here are a few links to stories and podcast from that time.
An interview about the induction with WTIP community radio in Minnesota.
Listen to Interview
This is a lovely piece by Minnesota based writer and long-time friend Shawn Perich.
View Story
A news story about the induction from my friends at Ontario Out of Doors.
View Story
The CBC Thunder Bay news stories.
View Story
Post-induction.
View Story

Awards
I am a member of the Outdoor Writers of Canada and have won more than 20 OWC national writing awards. I’ve also received special recognition from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources for educating and informing people about outdoor issues, and for my work with youth.
In 2010, my son Devin, father Gord Sr. and I received the Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner’s Citation for Lifesaving and St. John Ambulance Award after rescuing three men from drowning on Forgan Lake in July of 2009.
The newspaper story and plaque can be seen below:

