Eric Packard of Calvert County has recently been recognized with the Master Angler Milestone Award from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) FishMaryland program. This accolade is given to recreational anglers who successfully catch ten trophy-sized fish of different species within the state. Packard is the eleventh recipient of this award since its inception in 2019.
An avid angler, Packard spends approximately 240 days each year fishing in various waters across Maryland. His fishing prowess stretches from freshwater to saltwater environments, where he engages in both kayak and shore fishing, occasionally joining friends on power boats.
Eric Packard holds a hickory shad. Photo courtesy of Eric Packard
The FishMaryland program, which aims to promote recreational fishing across the state, includes an array of fish species found in both salt and freshwater settings. Packard achieved his milestone by catching ten species, meeting the program's size criteria for a trophy fish. His list of catches includes impressive sizes such as a 45-inch red drum and a 43-inch striped bass. His final qualifying catch, a 24-inch spotted seatrout, was reeled in off Point Lookout on July 2, 2024.
In addition to his fishing achievements, Packard contributes to the fishing community as a commissioner on the Maryland Sports Fisheries Advisory Commission. He also shares his extensive knowledge and experience through articles for FishTalk Magazine, particularly focusing on kayak and shoreline fishing.
The DNR will present Packard with the Master Angler Milestone Award certificate and a gift card to Bass Pro Shops during a ceremony at their Hanover, Maryland location. This award not only highlights individual achievements but also encourages the community to engage with Maryland's diverse and accessible fishing opportunities.
Outside of fishing, Packard is also a talented, self-taught artist, working with oil paintings, ink, or pencil drawings, and pastels. Before retiring, he was involved in IT at the national office of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters.
Reflecting on his lifelong passion for fishing, Packard recalled his early experiences fishing alone as a child in Kansas, where he grew up while his father was stationed with the Army. These formative experiences sparked his enduring enthusiasm for fishing—a passion that clearly continues to thrive to this day.
For more information on the Master Angler Milestone Award and the FishMaryland program, interested individuals can visit the official program website.
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