BANGOR DAILY NEWS • March 20, 2025
In late January, Maine lost Gary Corson, a wild native brook trout conservationist of unmatched knowledge, accomplishment and influence. Few if any have done as much for Maine’s wild native brook trout as Gary. And when it comes to lake- and pond-dwelling wild native brook trout, no one in the history of Maine ever knew more, and it’s likely no one ever will. In 2001, he was named Sportsman of the Year by Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine. He was the 2011 recipient of Maine’s Legendary Maine Guide Award. He lived and breathed lake- and pond-dwelling native brook trout and dedicated an immeasurable amount of time to their preservation. The next time you see a State Heritage Fish sign while afield, take a moment to thank the person who was most responsible for making it happen, Gary Corson. ~ Bob Mallard