Canadian Angler Hall of Fame

In the early 1980’s Tom established a direct presence for Shimano fishing tackle in Canada. It was through this business connection that he was introduced to competitive angling and it didn’t take long for Tom to realize that it was necessary to set a high standard for best fish handling practices. Tom was instrumental in producing the first series of “made in Canada” rules for Pro Bass, and his continued efforts in finding better handling methods first through the introduction of live release boats and new techniques such as Water Weigh-In, habit improvement programs and so on has positioned Shimano as one of the leaders in corporate involvement throughout North America.

Darryl Choronzey is often referred to as the everyday man’s fisherman. Born in Port Colborne and raised in Burlington, Darryl was taught at an early age the importance of respecting and protecting the environment. In his early 20’s Darryl became an outdoor writer for a local newspaper followed by the Globe & Mail as well as the Toronto Sun. Darryl also created, published and edited Ontario Fisherman Magazine. Concerned, controversial but also honest Darryl never wavered in his attempts to protect and improve fishing. Today Darryl hosts the Going Fishing Television Show, an outdoor series that is dedicated to the everyday fisherman.

Bill Otway has been fighting for the rights of anglers and hunters in his home province of B.C. since the early 1970s, when he was named executive director of the B.C. Wildlife Federation. As the recreational fisheries advisor/ombudsman for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) for 15 years starting in 1985, Bill influenced numerous policy decisions affecting B.C.’s fish. In October of 2010 at the age of 75, Bill lost his battle with cancer. The hard work of this tireless outdoorsman will carry on for years to come.

“Big” Jim, as he is affectionately known has been an integral part of the Canadian sportfishing scene for over 25 years now and shows no signs of slowing down. Having first gained notoriety as a tournament angler, “Big” Jim was vaulted into the sportfishing spotlight with two Canadian Classic titles along with a slew of tournament victory’s. “Big” Jim formed what has become Canada’s largest free fishing publication – Just Fishing. This successful publication is presently entering its 18th year of bringing much needed angling information to Canadian and American anglers alike.