FWC recognizes UF bass-fishing team for back-to-back national wins

For immediate release: June 9, 2011
Media contact: Bob Wattendorf, 850-488-0520

FWC recognizes UF bass-fishing team for back-to-back national wins

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recognized Jake Gipson and Matthew Wercinski Thursday for their unprecedented back-to-back wins in the National Guard/FLW College Fishing National Championship. At their meeting in St. Augustine, the commissioners also recognized Mike Allen, Ph.D., the faculty sponsor of the winning University of Florida bass-fishing team.

The FWC believes that the national recognition generated by these young men’s accomplishment will help inspire and recruit new anglers to conserve, enhance and enjoy the state’s recreational resources.

“Florida is among the top destinations in the world for largemouth bass fishing and is actively working to further improve both the quality of bass fishing and global perceptions of these outstanding fisheries,” said Tom Champeau, director of the FWC’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management. “Recognizing Dr. Allen and the UF fishing team helps to emphasize this and thank them for being role models.”

The resolution also acknowledged that competitive fishing helps highlight the quality of Florida fisheries, the excitement of the sport and the need for safe and ethical fishing practices. Along with recreational angling pursuits, fishing tournaments help generate jobs and revenue for local communities.

For more information on recreational fishing in Florida, go to MyFWC.com/Fishing.