BAXTER, MN – November 17, 2015 – Three individuals and two organizations will be enshrined by The Fishing Hall of Fame of Minnesota in 2016.

 

Inductees in the “Legends” category include longtime guide and educator Royal Karels, nationally renowned photographer Bill Lindner, and veteran tournament pro and educator Bruce “Doc” Samson. The Minnesota Fishing Museum and Frankie’s Marine will join the ranks of “Legendary Organizations.”

 

Based in the Brainerd Lakes Area, the Hall of Fame annually recognizes up to three individuals and two groups or organizations that have made a major impact on Minnesota’s sport fishing industry. “The Hall stands to recognize all passionate fishing promoters, whether they have made a difference through education, legislation, guiding, manufacturing, media promotions or other means,” explained Hall of Fame director Chip Leer.

 

Individuals must be a state resident, have lived in Minnesota for a minimum of 25 years, be at least 50 years of age, and have made meritorious contributions to the sport of fishing. Businesses and organizations may also be nominated, provided they are registered in Minnesota and have made similar noteworthy contributions to fishing. Nominations are accepted from the general public, and the list is reduced to the top ten by current Hall members, after which finalists are voted on for induction. 

An early member of Marv Koep’s Nisswa Guides League, Karels has nearly 50 years of multi-species guiding experience. In the 1970s and ’80s, he also helped conduct summer outdoor-education classes for Brainerd-area students.

 

With over 36 years behind the lens, Lindner is an internationally recognized outdoor photographer whose striking images have appeared in countless venues including national fishing magazines, advertising and television productions. 

Samson, also known as “Doctor Sonar,” is famous for his efforts to educate anglers on mastering their marine electronics. He is also a decorated tournament veteran who began his career in 1986 on the Masters Walleye Circuit and has since fished numerous national events. Highlights include a $300,000 victory at the 2002 RCL Walleye Championship.

Among the Legendary Organizations, the Minnesota Fishing Museum houses a 10,000-square-foot collection of historic tackle, boats, motors and other fishing-related items in its Little Falls headquarters, while Frankie’s Marine has served anglers in the Chisago Lakes area for four decades, and routinely ranks among the region’s top bait, tackle and Ranger Boats dealers.

Official enshrinement coincides with the Northwest Sportshow and is set for April 1, 2016 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. For details, visit www.fishinghalloffamemn.com