“Big Jim” McLaughlin is the most recent recipient of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame (BFHOF)’s Meritorious Service Award.
The Seeley’s Bay resident is the primary Canadian and fourth particular person to obtain the celebrated award. It was established in 2018 to acknowledge a person or group for his or her vital contribution to bass fishing.
McLaughlin’s resume consists of quite a few event wins, podium emcee gigs, present shows, and his personal print publication. That solely scratches the floor of his contributions to angling, nevertheless. He stated introducing youngsters to the game is what makes him blissful.
“Tournament wins and industry stuff mean the world to me but being recognized for giving back to the sport of fishing — for running casting ponds for kids, gifting a child their first rod and reel, or offering tips to a teenager for an upcoming tournament — those are what make this award truly special,” McLaughlin stated.
“Big Jim’s efforts with tournament bass fishing and introducing others to the sport have not gone unnoticed,” BHHOF Board President John Mazurkiewicz stated. “This particular award from the (board) attests to the truth that anglers, and people within the bass fishing business, know what Big Jim has meant to the regular progress and recognition of bass fishing in Canada.