(Jan 16, 2020) Isle, Minn. — Beginning in 2019, the Mille Lacs Smallmouth Alliance (MLSA) established a Legacy Award to recognize an individual for outstanding commitment to bass fishing in Minnesota. The mission of the MLSA is to preserve and maintain the world-class trophy smallmouth bass fishery on Lake Mille Lacs. The Legacy Award is for individuals who have made significant contributions in bass fishing and/ or conservation in Minnesota. People who have exhibited unparalleled dedication in preserving, promoting, enhancing or supporting natural resources or outdoor recreational opportunities will be eligible for this award.
“I am extremely excited that our board of directors has taken the time to create this award to show support and appreciation to individuals that have made an impact in the world of fishing and outdoors” said Jason Schade, president of the MLSA. “We want to acknowledge the good work people are doing to advance our conservation efforts on Lake Mille Lacs and beyond.”
“The Legacy Award is the Mille Lacs Smallmouth Alliance’s highest award” said Jim DaRosa, Past-President of the MLSA. The first Legacy Award was given at the 4th Annual Simms Bronzeback Blowout on May 4th, 2019. “Last year’s Legacy Award winner, Jeffrey Nelson, set the bar high for future recipients of this prestigious award in his efforts to involve junior high students throughout Minnesota in bass fishing” noted DaRosa. Jeffrey Nelson of the Minnesota Bass Federation is pictured in the back row, center.
All nominations must be submitted by March 15th, 2020 via the online form found at www.millelacssmallmouthalliance.com. The public is encouraged to nominate individuals who meet the criteria detailed above.
The selection committee consists of MLSA board members. This committee will review all nominations and select the most deserving individual for this honor. The Legacy Award will be presented to the winner at the 5th Annual Simms Bronzeback Blowout on May 2nd, 2020 at Izatys Resort in Onamia, MN.
The MLSA website is www.millelacssmallmouthalliance.com for more information.
