March 12, 2025
The International Game Fish Association announced Wednesday that Dr. Andrew Taylor is the recipient of its annual Johnny Morris Freshwater Angling Award.
Here's the full text the IGFA listed for Taylor in its press release:
Dr. Andrew Taylor is a leading expert in freshwater fisheries conservation, particularly in the study of black bass (Micropterus species). As an assistant professor of fisheries biology at the University of North Georgia, Dr. Taylor’s research has played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and classification of these iconic sportfish. His work has revised black bass taxonomy, including elevation of Neosho bass to species status and laying the groundwork for species descriptions of the Bartram's bass and Altamaha bass. He has contributed to key studies on hybridization among native and non-native black basses, which have helped inform fisheries management and conservation actions. Dr. Taylor collaborated extensively with the IGFA beginning in 2020 when he assisted with species identification for a hybrid gar record. Recognizing his expertise, the IGFA partnered with him in a multi-year effort to reclassify its spotted bass records, leading to the official recognition of Alabama bass as an eligible species for Line and Tippet Class World Records in 2024. His contributions also include authoring an article in the journal “Fisheries” that highlighted the role of record-keeping in sportfish conservation. Through his research, mentorship, and advocacy, Dr. Taylor continues to influence freshwater fisheries science while helping to ensure accurate species recognition and sustainable management practices for future generations of anglers.
