The American Sportfishing Association has awarded its prestigious Future of Fishing Award to CCA Louisiana Founder Jack Lawton Jr. for his work nurturing and growing recreational fishing over the past three decades. ASA presented Lawton the award Oct. 14 at its annual conference in New Orleans.

The Future of Fishing Award is given to an individual or organization that has made a special contribution to advancing fishing participation. The award recognizes significant contributions to foster new anglers, encourage family fishing and promote community involvement in fishing events.

Lawton founded CCA Louisiana 30 years ago, paving the way for responsible conservation and the promotion of recreational fishing across the state. During Lawton’s 25 years as chairman of CCA Louisiana, our organization expanded significantly into an influential force that protected redfish with gamefish status, established a ban on gill nets and initiated countless habitat and coastal restoration projects.

“For three decades, the sportfishing community has looked to Jack Lawton as a champion for marine conservation in the U.S.,” said Mike Nussman, president and chief executive of the American Sportfishing Association. “It was only fitting that we recognize his considerable efforts with one of the highest awards the industry can bestow on an individual: ASA’s Future of Fishing Award. Jack’s leadership in saltwater fishing access is paying dividends for America’s anglers from coast to coast.”

Gov. Bobby Jindal helped present the award and praised Lawton for his conservation work with CCA.