Bob Herder Light-Tackle Award – Nick Smith

Nick Smith began fishing off the Palm Beaches of Florida in 1955 but became captivated by fly fishing for billfish in November 1999. Since that time, he has established himself as a frontrunner of the sport, having caught and released over 6,000 billfish on IGFA legal leaders and fly tackle. With an impressive resume of tournament wins, awards, and other angling accomplishments, his passion for billfishing has never waned. He is a six-time winner of the world’s oldest sailfish tournament, the famous Rea Trophy in the Silver Sailfish Derby, and a five-time winner of the West Palm Beach Fishing Club's top sailfish release award, the Tracy Schneider Memorial Trophy. Smith’s impressive accomplishments extend beyond catch statistics and tournament wins, though they certainly demonstrate his mastery. He has helped pioneer numerous fishing techniques, tackle modifications and boat designs and exhibits increasing dedication to the sport with each passing year.