Two dedicated fishermen have achieved a top honor in Maryland. Jesse Black and Canden Michalski earned the FishMaryland Master Angler Award. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources confirmed the achievement this week.
This award recognizes anglers who catch ten different species of trophy-sized fish. Only 25 people have received this distinction since the program began six years ago. Their stories highlight remarkable dedication and passion for the sport.
Shore Angler Lands Award After Personal Journey
Jesse Black made history with his achievement. He is the first angler to earn the award exclusively through shore fishing. He caught all ten qualifying fish from riverbanks and the shore of Deep Creek Lake.
Black’s path to becoming a Master Angler is deeply personal. He credits fishing as a vital part of his decade-long recovery from addiction. Nature and the outdoors serve as his higher power, he told reporters.
He set a ambitious goal to catch all ten species within one year. His final catch, a surprise rock bass, sealed his victory. According to the Maryland DNR, his accomplishment is an inspiration to the angling community.
Teenage Angler Follows in His Father’s Footsteps
Canden Michalski, age 15, is the youngest recipient of this award. He is the 25th person to be named a Master Angler. His father, Jason Michalski, earned the same honor just months earlier.
Michalski landed an enormous 47-inch blue catfish from his kayak. The Susquehanna River is his favorite fishing spot. The massive fish fought for 15 minutes before he could bring it in.
He is only the second angler to earn awards for all three invasive species categories. These include northern snakehead, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. His father-son fishing trips that began in early childhood fueled his passion.
The FishMaryland program continues to promote the state’s diverse fishing opportunities. This prestigious award underscores the incredible skill and patience required to succeed at the highest level.
Info at your fingertips
What is the Maryland Master Angler Award?
It is an award from the Maryland DNR. Anglers must catch ten different species of fish that meet specific minimum size requirements. It is a significant achievement in the state’s fishing community.
How many people have won the Master Angler Award?
With these latest awards, 25 anglers have now received the honor. The program has been recognizing top fishermen for the past six years.
Can you win the award by fishing from shore?
Yes, Jesse Black proved it is possible. He is the first person to earn the Master Angler Award exclusively through shore fishing without using a boat.
What are the invasive species categories?
The categories are for Chesapeake Channa (northern snakehead), blue catfish, and flathead catfish. These species are non-native and their populations are managed by the DNR.
Trusted Sources
Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Associated Press
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