ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission are accepting nominations through January 31, 2026, for the annual Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award, which honors individuals for outstanding contributions to recreational fishing and conservation in the state.
Established in 2019, the award recognizes efforts in habitat management, fisheries conservation, angler education, research, sportsmanship, or other actions that directly benefit Maryland’s fish populations and recreational fishing opportunities.
Winners receive a proclamation signed by the Secretary of Natural Resources and the chair of the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission. The award may be presented to living individuals or posthumously.
Past recipients include: 2020: Bernard “Lefty” Kreh (posthumous) and Dr. Kenneth Lewis 2021: Joe Brooks (posthumous) and Robert Wall 2022: James “Jim” Gracie (posthumous) and Bruno Vasta 2023: Monty Hawkins 2024: Dr. Ray Morgan 2025: Shawn Kimbro
The Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission, created by the Maryland General Assembly, consists of 13 members appointed by the governor to advise the department on recreational fishing regulations, management plans, and licensing issues. The 15-member Tidal Fisheries Advisory Commission performs similar duties for Chesapeake Bay and coastal fisheries.
Nominations must be submitted using the official online form available on the Department of Natural Resources website. The form requires a detailed essay explaining how the nominee has advanced Maryland’s recreational fisheries through specific, measurable contributions.
Self-nominations are permitted. Multiple nominations for the same individual are allowed and may strengthen a candidacy.
For questions about eligibility or the submission process, contact Paul Genovese in DNR Fishing and Boating Services at paul.genovese@maryland.gov or 443-534-3627.
The department encourages nominations from across Maryland’s fishing community, including charter captains, recreational anglers, conservation organizations, and local fishing clubs in Southern Maryland counties such as Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s, where tidal and freshwater fisheries support thousands of anglers each year.
