It's the media (guys like Hall of Famer George Kramer) that can really help launch and perpetuate an angler's career. Through the years, I had been interviewed several times by George for print and Internet. Now, today was a regular routine interview; however, it was still very different. Today, I had a opportunity to interview George Kramer, a new inductee to the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
TCSR: What are some of the most memorable moments in your career?
GK: I'd have to say that getting to cover the Bassmaster's Classic in the boat with the Pros as it used to be done back before television took over. Those were some of the most exciting moments, the moments that cleared away all of the estimations of what the Pros do or how they do it. You're right in the boat with them, often times they're talking about what they’re doing or what they're thinking, and that really helps lift any myths about the magic the pros might have. Not too much magic: a lot of good decision making, and a lot of hard work.
TCSR: What are some of the projects you've worked on through the years?
GK: I'd have to say, the all-time-project was the coffee table book, 'Bass Fishing: An American Tradition', it's in a beautiful large format, and it allowed me to write more than merely a fishing report. It was so beautifully illustrated by photographers all around the country.
Then I would have to say among the things that have generated interest and kept me stimulated, is when I started up the Top 40 California Bass Fisherman List. The first one I did was in the mid 90's for Fishing & Hunting News, and I've done it ever since.
TCSR: The Top 40 list will be published in the Bass-A-Thon Program, and keep check in with George Kramer's Bass Fishing News and Blog Website because the official release date will be just prior to that (officially, Nov. 7).
TCSR: What were some of your personal goals throughout your career?
GK: I had personal goals: one was that I wanted to edit a national magazine and I got to edit U.S. Bass Magazine for three years. I wanted to write a book, I had a chance to do a couple, now I am looking forward to a third. And, I always hope to get a limit on my next fishing trip.
TCSR: Anything you would like to add?
GK: I am much appreciative of Burt Twilegar (and family). He was the owner and publisher of Western Outdoors. I would have to say I am indebted to them for taking a chance at me back in the very beginning. It was 1977 when I went to work for them full-time, I was freelancing and working for the Orange County Register prior to that. I would say, of all things, I have never forgotten that.
TCSR: Thanks for taking the time out for me and the TC Sports Report readers. It was an honor. You are very deserving of the Hall of Fame Title.