Yesterday at the ICAST show, Johnson Outdoors honored Al Lindner as its 2007 Samuel C. Johnson Fishing Journalist of the Year. The award is sponsored by Minn Kota, Humminbird, and Cannon in honor of Mr. Samuel C. Johnson, a pioneer in the fishing industry and a legendary corporate environmentalist.
Lindner was selected by a panel of judges based on his contributions to the fishing industry in the fields of journalism, conservation, and philanthropic leadership. Lindner established himself as an accomplished angler by successfully competing in the early days of tournament bass fishing. In order to grow both recreational and competitive fishing, he partnered with his brother Ron to establish In-Fisherman magazine. They eventually expanded the philosophy of educating anglers to be more successful into television and radio.
Lindner's one of the most popular TV hosts of all times and can currently be seen on Lindner's Angling Edge. He's already been inducted into several fishing Halls of Fame.
As part of the award program, a $5,000 conservation grant is being presented in Lindner's name. The recipient of the grant is the FishAmerica Foundation, which unites the sportfishing industry with conservation groups, government natural-resource agencies, corporations, and charitable foundations to invest in fish and habitat conservation and research across the country.
From the staff at BassFan, congratulations Al. And thanks for teaching us all to fish.
