Organizations

The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) announced the conclusion of its role administering the Alabama Bass Trail (ABT) after the ABT Board of Directors voted to assume full independent governance and operational responsibility. AMLA President/CEO Tami Reist and ABT Chairman Jack Tibbs praised the partnership and Kay Donaldson's leadership since the trail's 2012 launch.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association announced executive team changes to strengthen its Washington, D.C. headquarters presence and advance strategic priorities. Key appointments include Chase Warden as COO/CFO, Robert Newsome as senior vice president and chief growth officer, Jennifer Thompson as senior vice president of events, and Tempe Stephen as chief of staff.

The Billfish Foundation announces Peter Chaibongsai, Director of Conservation Programs, will become President effective January 1, 2027, succeeding Ellen Peel. Chaibongsai has served TBF for 20 years, leading the Tag & Release Program, scientific research, and satellite tagging initiatives. He will prioritize expanding research programs and strengthening partnerships to advance billfish conservation.

Ryan J. Brown, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, was elected president of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies during its 116th Annual Meeting in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Brown succeeds Paul Johansen and brings extensive leadership experience in natural resource management and conservation.

The Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers (AGLOW) is running a summer 2026 membership recruitment campaign through September 30, offering monthly prize drawings and Grand Prize conference attendance. The drive targets outdoor media professionals, brands, conservation organizations, and tourism destinations, with prizes including SPYPOINT Game Cameras and free memberships.

The Coastal Conservation Association of California (CCA CAL) is seeking a new Executive Director to lead the non-profit organization in conserving California ocean resources and promoting saltwater angling access. Bill Shedd, chairman of AFTCO and CCA CAL, highlighted the organization's recent achievements in advocating for anglers and supporting marine habitat initiatives.

The Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) kicks off its 100th anniversary celebration on April 9, 2026, marking a century of supporting outdoor journalists, authors, photographers, and digital content creators. Founded in Chicago in 1927, OWAA will commemorate the milestone through its 2026 annual conference in Madison, Wisconsin, featuring historical displays and a special fundraising campaign.

The National Fish Habitat Board appointed Connor Bevan of the American Sportfishing Association and Kellie Ralston of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust as new members, while re-electing Gene Gilliland of B.A.S.S. to a third term during its January 2026 meeting in Missouri.

The National Fish Habitat Partnership is recruiting three candidates to join its 28-member Board composed of federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private industry representatives. Board members support the National Network of Fish Habitat Partnerships, review project submissions, and establish national conservation priorities. Applications are due by December 31, 2025.