Crappie Master's 2018 Sportsman of the Year

Posted by roper on October 2, 2018

Does anyone ever notice?  That question has come across my mind a couple times. When one works hard at something whether it be on the job or in sports, it’s human nature to have the thought:  Does anyone ever recognize what I do or the things that I have accomplished?  Do they truly understand my heart?

 For more than 15 years, it has been my passion and dedication to be the best crappie angler I can be. I have also had a drive to do everything with my gifts and talents to help move the sport of professional crappie fishing forward. That is why I started writing educational articles teaching people about fish care, how to catch more crappie, calling boat/fishing shows, and conducting seminars on crappie fishing. Some of those shows didn't have anyone doing Crappie seminars and to date, I have held seminars in Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Arkansas and New Jersey.  After seeing other Bass Pros having schools/classes teaching how to catch their favorite specie, I started Crappie Academy, a traveling training class taught by top pros & guides.  I spearheaded the first Top 50 Crappie Lakes in America list that was produced by FishHound.com and later started CrappieNation.net to promote all companies that make products for crappie/pan-fish anglers and the professionals that promote them.  Last but not least, we placed 9th in the 2018 Angler Team of the Year Race and won the Crappie Masters Media Fish off.  Our media partner was Judy Kramer from Benton County Enterprise.  Judy will be doing a newspaper article on the tournament and Roper Outdoors.

While attending the Bass Pro Shops Crappie Masters National Championship in Clinton, MO this past weekend, my question was answered.  Before an audience of 300 plus of the best crappie anglers in the world including some Crappie Masters National Sponsors, Dad and I were blessed to receive the 2018 Sportsman of the Year Award!  Dad and I want to thank all of our personal sponsors for trusting us to represent your company in the public’s eye.