SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – December 20, 2023 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame (BFHOF) is proud to announce the second year of its Fishery Management Scholarship Program. Recognizing the critical role of fishery management professionals in ensuring the health and vibrancy of bass fisheries across the U.S. and Canada, this program aims to provide financial support and encouragement to high school and college bass anglers pursuing careers in this vital field.

Up to $15,000 will be awarded in June 2024 to selected applicants. Applications are now open and can be submitted through the BFHOF website: https://www.bassfishinghof.com/

“Many fishery management agencies face a growing need for qualified individuals who possess both a deep understanding of the science behind fishery management and a passion for the sport of bass fishing,” said BFHOF Board President John Mazurkiewicz. “Spearheaded by Gene Gilliland and our dedicated Conservation/Education Committee, this scholarship program aligns perfectly with the Hall’s mission of celebrating, promoting, and preserving the sport by investing in the future of healthy fisheries, accessible waters, and clean aquatic ecosystems.”

Scholarship eligibility:

• High school seniors committed to enrolling in a four-year college or university program
• Undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in a four-year college, university, or accredited graduate program
• Declared or planned major in biology, aquatic ecology, fisheries, marine science, or a closely related natural resources field

Application requirements:

• Short essay outlining career goals in natural resources and describing the applicant’s dream agency job
• Proof of membership in a recognized bass fishing organization or valid fishing license
• Completed BFHOF Fishery Management Scholarship Program application form

Selection process:

Applications will be reviewed by an independent panel of distinguished individuals involved in fishery management across the U.S. and Canada. The panel includes Phil Morlock, Director of Government Affairs for the Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association; Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation; Ross Self, Chief of Inland Fisheries for the South Carolina DNR; and Dr. Mark Rogers, Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit Leader at Tennessee Tech University.

Application deadline: April 15, 2024

Scholarship award:

• Up to $15,000 total to be distributed among selected recipients
• Awarded as a stipend for school-related expenses

For more information:

• Visit the BFHOF Fishery Management Scholarship Program website: https://www.bassfishinghof.com
• Contact the BFHOF at (501) 541-6660 or [email protected]

By investing in the next generation of fishery management professionals, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is committed to ensuring the continued health and sustainability of bass fisheries for generations to come.