Rivers of a Lost Coast

Congratulations to Hal Janssen for his recent introduction to the California Outdoor Hall of Fame. This past Saturday, January 16, Hal was honored alongside outdoor hiking duo Ken and Marcia Powers and saltwater angler Steve Carson. The induction ceremony occurred at the International Sportsmen’s Expo at the San Mateo County Event Center over the weekend.

In Sunday’s SF Chronicle Tom Stienstra wrote: “Janssen is a world-renowned fly fisherman who invented many concepts and equipment now in use. He has caught nearly every species of freshwater and saltwater game fish, totaling in the hundreds, and has entertained, informed and inspired thousands at seminars, at schools and in videos. Among his inventions are many fly lines and 70 fly patterns used throughout the world. As an illustrator and painter, he has created fishing art for calendars, magazines and prints. He is a consummate authority who was sought out by Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams and others as a guide and friend, and has also served many fishing clubs and conservation organizations. Janssen’s fly-fishing catches include 20-pound trout, 100-pound tarpon, 40-pound salmon, and hundreds of other trophy-quality specimens from around the world - virtually all that he released unharmed.

Congratulations Hal on your well-deserved honor.