The Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission has selected Lenny Rudow to receive the 2026 Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to recreational fishing.
Rudow, who lives in Anne Arundel County, founded FishTalk magazine and has spent three decades as an author advocating for responsible fishing practices. He actively promotes fisheries conservation through podcast appearances, speaking engagements, and participation in fishing competitions across Maryland.
“In all of his activities, Lenny’s commitment has consistently centered on enhancing Maryland’s recreational fishing experience, promoting conservation-minded angling, fostering education, and supporting sustainable fishery enjoyment for all,” said Jesse Howe, Commission member and Assistant Director of Coastal Conservation Association Maryland.
This prestigious recognition was created by the commission to celebrate people who have made lasting contributions through habitat management, conservation efforts, educational outreach, research, or other significant work that benefits recreational fishing in Maryland. Rudow becomes the tenth individual to earn this distinction since the program began.
A graduate of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Rudow has maintained a lifelong passion for the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding waters. His conservation philosophy and commitment to education are evident throughout his extensive body of published work spanning 30 years.
“Fishing is my life, and Maryland is my home, so to be recognized with this award means more to me than I can even say,” Rudow said. “Thank you, Maryland, thank you anglers, thank you fishing community for always being there when I needed you. I promise I’ll work as hard as I can for as long as I can to help bring new anglers into the fold, promote fishing in Maryland, and rejuvenate our many diverse fisheries. I hope everyone who happens to read these words will open up their calendar right now, look for the next open day, and mark it ‘Going Fishing!’”
Ted Carski, who submitted Rudow’s nomination, praised his approach to fisheries management. “Lenny is a very strong voice for the use of sound science to inform fish management. Lenny emphasizes the importance of good water quality and better habitat to good fishing, including what each fisher can do to help enhance water quality. Lenny often invites experts, or chairs a panel of experts, on these topics to help inform and educate Maryland fishers.”
Officials are planning a ceremony to honor Rudow prior to the commission’s fall meeting scheduled for October 20, 2026.
