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Welcome to GAS!
GAS’ Passion for Fishing
At the Global Anglers Society (GAS), we celebrate our love for fishing and the various fishing techniques that enhance our experiences. Join us as we explore these techniques and share the thrill of the catch with fellow enthusiasts.
Fishing is not the only passion of the GAS membership. When participating in GAS events, you must also be prepared to demonstrate your skill as a euchre player, always remembering the right from the left bower—especially if you’d like an invitation to join us on a future GAS adventure!
No game of euchre is complete without a fine bourbon or single malt scotch! And of course, any great GAS member knows that you catch more fish when you are downing a Molson Canadian beer or sipping on a refreshing margarita!
When GAS members gather, it is always a great time filled with food, fun, and fellowship—an opportunity to build friendships that will last a lifetime!
History of GAS
The Global Anglers Society (GAS) traces its origins to June 2011, when Marlin Schul invited Trip Todd and Dean Bender to join him and his father, George Schul, at Silsby Lake in Manitoba, Canada. It was during this inaugural trip that a brotherly bond was formed around the fun and fellowship of fishing, drinking, and the card game Euchre, which laid the foundation for GAS events that commit to gathering each year in various locations around the world. Since that first trip, we have enjoyed inducting several new members over the years, sharing various fishing techniques, and we look forward to having you join us in the future.
Venice, Louisiana: A "Changing" Sport fishing Paradise
Venice, Louisiana—situated at the mouth of the Mississippi River—offers fishing guides one of the most productive fisheries in North America. Yet beneath its reputation as a sportfishing paradise lies a fragile and rapidly changing landscape shaped not only by natural forces, but also by decades of industrial activity. For guides, this creates both opportunity and long-term uncertainty.
Opportunity in a Dynamic Ecosystem
The same processes that built the Mississippi River Delta—sediment deposition and nutrient flow—continue to fuel extraordinary fish populations. Guides operating out of Venice benefit from immediate access to diverse habitats, from shallow marshes to deep offshore waters, allowing them to target species like redfish, tuna, and snapper in a single trip. This ecological richness supports a strong charter industry and draws anglers from across the country.
However, the productivity of the fishery is directly tied to the health of the surrounding wetlands. These marshes serve as nurseries for countless species, meaning that environmental degradation has a direct impact on the long-term viability of guiding businesses.
Erosion and the Oil Industry: A Growing Concern
One of the most significant environmental challenges facing the region is coastal erosion and land loss in the Mississippi River Delta—issues that have been closely linked to oil and gas development. Scientific research has documented how decades of industrial activity have altered the delta’s natural systems in ways that accelerate wetland loss.
A 2020 review published in Water found that oil and gas operations have contributed to wetland degradation through canal dredging, subsidence, and pollution, altering hydrology and increasing saltwater intrusion. Similarly, research in the Open Journal of Soil Science highlights how extraction activities—combined with levee systems that restrict natural sediment flow—have contributed to widespread subsidence and erosion. Additional findings from the U.S. Geological Survey show that petroleum contamination can accelerate shoreline retreat following exposure events. Journalistic reporting, including coverage by The New Yorker, has also pointed to the extensive network of oil and gas canals as a major factor allowing saltwater to penetrate and degrade marsh vegetation.
Implications for Fishing Guides
For fishing guides, these environmental changes create a paradox. In the short term, shifting coastlines can open new fishing areas and concentrate fish in certain zones, sometimes improving catch rates. But over the long term, the loss of marsh habitat threatens the very foundation of the fishery.
Guides must constantly adapt to changing conditions—navigating new waterways, learning evolving fish patterns, and adjusting to areas that may no longer exist in the same form from year to year. This requires deep local knowledge and flexibility, but also adds uncertainty to trip planning and client expectations.
There are also practical concerns. As wetlands disappear, natural protection from storms diminishes, increasing exposure to rough conditions and potential infrastructure damage. Combined with volatile weather and rising operational costs, erosion adds another layer of risk to an already demanding profession.
How We Can Help: Paths Toward Solutions
Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts among guides, policymakers, scientists, and the broader public. Fishing guides themselves are uniquely positioned as frontline observers of environmental change, and their knowledge can play a critical role in shaping solutions.
One key avenue is supporting large-scale restoration efforts led by organizations such as the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. These initiatives focus on sediment diversions, marsh creation, and barrier island restoration—projects designed to rebuild land and restore natural processes. Public support, funding advocacy, and participation in stakeholder meetings can help ensure these efforts remain a priority.
Collaboration with scientific institutions is another important step. Programs associated with entities like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration often rely on local data and observations. Guides can contribute by reporting environmental changes, participating in tagging or monitoring programs, and helping researchers better understand shifting ecosystems.
There is also a role for policy engagement. Industry accountability—particularly around canal restoration and environmental mitigation—has been a topic of ongoing legal and political debate in Louisiana. Supporting policies that require restoration of abandoned canals or fund coastal recovery can directly benefit the fishing industry. Guides, as small business owners, can lend influential voices to these discussions through local associations and advocacy groups.
At a grassroots level, guides and clients alike can promote sustainable practices: supporting eco-conscious charters, educating visitors about coastal issues, and contributing to conservation organizations. Even small actions—like habitat restoration volunteer work or donations—can collectively make a difference.
Conclusion
Fishing guides in Venice operate at the intersection of abundance and vulnerability. The region’s unmatched fishery continues to provide exceptional opportunities, but ongoing coastal erosion—driven in part by oil and gas activity—poses a serious long-term challenge. Supporting restoration efforts, engaging in science and policy, and elevating the voices of those who depend on the water may help chart a more sustainable future—ensuring that Venice remains not only a world-class fishing destination, but a resilient one as well.
GAS Chapter Meeting Minutes
Eardley Lake, Manitoba
Eardley Lake was the choice for the GAS Fall meeting. Sitting in Northern Manitoba, it boasts cool waters and steady supply of baitfish. We had 1st timers Gene ‘walleye whisperer’ Bowers and a true rookie in Mark (WH) Meissner. In all we had a great time learning the lake and the camaraderie was once again amazing.
Awards
Awards were straight forward and go as follows:
- Largest Northern Pike 26” - Mark Meissner
- Largest//Most Walleye 26.5” - Gene ‘the Walleye Whisperer’ Bowers
- Euchre Champion - for the first time in history the Euchre champ was Trip Todd
- The Avery Achievement Award went to Gene Bowers for his wealth of knowledge, his boat guiding skills, and his overall presence during the trip helping above his assigned duties. (There was no close competitor).
- The Walton Heiress Award was truly up for grabs this year. Yet in the last two days, Mark’s series of events clinched this prestigious award. Mark went on to thank all those responsible for helping him win this year.
General Business
As for business update, there was a mix of voting and non voting members. Our pleasure with the changes in the executive team was palpable, helping move the GAS forward.
The first vote was to honor Gene’s influence this year by changing the ‘Walleye’ award to the ‘Walleye Whisperer’ award. We had a quorum of voting members and the vote was unanimous.
The 2nd vote involved the 2026 Fall meeting location. Based on the quality of the facilities, the beauty of the lake, and the abundance of fish, Eardley was unanimously chosen as our 2026 Canadian destination. As a result, Trip was assigned the task of exploring options for the previously planned outing to Reindeer Lake at Lawrence Bay.
Upcoming Events
GAS has 2 events being planned for 2026. The first will be held in March in the Gulf of America around New Orleans. Our second trip will be to return to Eardley Lake in Manitoba September 6-10, 2026.
March 2025 Annual Meeting - Everglades City, FLj
Highlights
New Business
New Business
At the Global Anglers Society (GAS), we celebrate our love for fishing and the various fishing techniques that enhance our experiences. Join us as we explore these techniques and share the thrill of the catch with fellow enthusiasts.
Fishing is not the only passion of the GAS membership. When participating in GAS events, you must also be
At the Global Anglers Society (GAS), we celebrate our love for fishing and the various fishing techniques that enhance our experiences. Join us as we explore these techniques and share the thrill of the catch with fellow enthusiasts.
Fishing is not the only passion of the GAS membership. When participating in GAS events, you must also be prepared to demonstrate your skill as a euchre player, always remembering the right from the left bower—especially if you’d like an invitation to join us on a future GAS adventure!
No game of euchre is complete without a fine bourbon or single malt scotch! And of course, any great GAS member knows that you catch more fish when you are downing a Molson Canadian beer or sipping on a refreshing margarita!
When GAS members gather, it is always a great time filled with food, fun, and fellowship—an opportunity to build friendships that will last a lifetime!
New Business
New Business
New Business
The Global Anglers Society (GAS) traces its origins to June 2011, when Marlin Schul invited Trip Todd and Dean Bender to join him and his father, George Schul, at Silsby Lake in Manitoba, Canada. It was during this inaugural trip that a brotherly bond was formed around the fun and fellowship of fishing, drinking, and the card game Euchre,
The Global Anglers Society (GAS) traces its origins to June 2011, when Marlin Schul invited Trip Todd and Dean Bender to join him and his father, George Schul, at Silsby Lake in Manitoba, Canada. It was during this inaugural trip that a brotherly bond was formed around the fun and fellowship of fishing, drinking, and the card game Euchre, which laid the foundation for GAS events that commit to gathering each year in various locations around the world. Since that first trip, we have enjoyed inducting several new members over the years, sharing various fishing techniques, and we look forward to having you join us in the future.
Advocacy
New Business
Advocacy
On the final day of the GAS events, JB made a motion for the Global Anglers Society to explore the environmental impact of the explosive growth of the catfish population in Everglades National Park. The concern raised is that catfish are invading the typical gamefish environment, negatively impacting the enjoyment of anglers and frustrati
On the final day of the GAS events, JB made a motion for the Global Anglers Society to explore the environmental impact of the explosive growth of the catfish population in Everglades National Park. The concern raised is that catfish are invading the typical gamefish environment, negatively impacting the enjoyment of anglers and frustrating local guides who have to constantly remove them from their charters' hooks. JB further voiced the concern that anglers are aggravating the problem by using certain fishing techniques, such as feeding the catfish with our bait and then releasing them back into the environment. JB then moved that if the impact study validates these concerns, GAS should develop a campaign to encourage local guides to execute the catfish when caught in an effort to reduce the population growth rate. The motion was unanimously approved, and a committee was assigned to lead the project.
Our best Fish Recipes for GAS
Maple Cajun Salmon Pinwheels
Maple Cajun Salmon Pinwheels
Maple Cajun Salmon Pinwheels
SALMON:
▢ 1 Whole Side of Salmon skin off
▢ 2-3 tbsp of Blackened Cajun Seasoning
▢ 1 tbsp of Canola Oil
FILLING:
▢ 1 block of Cream Cheese
▢ 1 tbsp of Bacon Bits
▢ 1 tbsp of Diced Pimentos
▢ 2 tsp of Green Onions sliced
▢ 2 tsp of Mayonnaise
▢ 1.5 tsp of Dijon Mustard
▢ 1.5 tsp of Minced Garlic
GLAZE:
▢ 2.5 tbsp of Maple Syrup
▢ 2 tbsp of Melted Butter
▢ 1 tsp of Hot Sauce
INSTRUCTIONS
Lay out your salmon with the skin off and trim any excess pieces of fat or meat. Lather in oil and season both sides using your favorite Cajun seasoning. While preparing this delicious salmon, consider some fishing techniques that could enhance your catch for future meals. Add the cream cheese and all the other ingredients for the filling and mix together. Lather a thin layer over one side of the entire salmon. Beginning at the tail end, roll the salmon into itself to create the pinwheel shape. If you want, wrap the salmon in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to set for 30 minutes. Pull the salmon out and slice it to create that classic pinwheel. Season the top side of the salmon with more seasoning, place it into a skillet or wood plank along with lemon slices and set in the fridge until ready to use.
Preheat your smoker to 275F to cook indirectly. Add some wood chips or wood chunks to the coals for added smoke flavor.
Pull the salmon out and bring to room temperature for 7-8 minutes. Place the skillet into the smoker and let it cook for about 30-35 minutes until it reaches 135-140F internal. About 10 minutes before the salmon is done, mix together your glaze and lather it on top of the salmon pinwheels. Let it finish cooking, and then pull off to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish the salmon with chopped parsley and enjoy! This recipe is perfect for sharing at GAS events or gatherings with the Global Anglers Society.
Walleye Chowder
Maple Cajun Salmon Pinwheels
Maple Cajun Salmon Pinwheels
Ingredients (feeds 6)
5 slices bacon cooked and chopped
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup celery chopped
1 large yellow onion chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups cold milk
2 cups cubed red potatoes approx. 2 potatoes
3-4 walleye fillets, cut into chunks
Freshly ground salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat the butter in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the celery and onions, sauté until softened. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy fishing techniques that involve catching walleye, a delicious fish to cook. Stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk. Add the potatoes and bacon and stir gently. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked through. As part of the GAS events, this dish showcases how to prepare fresh catch like walleye. Add fish chunks and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until fish is cooked through. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and serve, making it a great addition to any gathering of the Global Anglers Society.
Do you have GAS?
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Welcome to the Global Anglers Society (GAS), a vibrant community of fishing enthusiasts who share a passion for fishing techniques, euchre games, and bourbon tasting!
Make your first year payment of $75 today to receive a GAS hat, towel, and equipment decal, and start enjoying the many benefits of GAS events! Annual re