Helen Sevier was one of the first employees of BASS when the organization was formed in the early 1970s and became its president and CEO in 1986. She strengthened its membership network to 600,000 worldwide, invested significantly in communications to keep BASS members knowledgeable and active, and promoted the joys of bass fishing through world-class tournaments around the globe.

“Helen was a master at seeing how BASS’s membership fit into the larger context of fisheries and outdoor conservation,” said Nussman. “She knew that the future of fishing and the industries that support it were dependent upon strong advocacy and healthy resources.”

For every major milestone related to fishing and fisheries conservation over two decades, Sevier helped lead the charge. She had a major role in the establishment of the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council, an advisory group for the Interior Secretary; the Fishable Waters Coalition, which works to improve clean water legislation; and the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, dedicated to promoting the expansion of these outdoor pursuits. She also was instrumental in developing the Presidential Executive Order on Recreational Fisheries in 1996 and the Fishable Waters Act.