Legend Biography

Don Wirth of Nashville, Tennessee is one of the most prolific and best-known
writers on the freshwater fishing scene. His articles and photos appear regularly
in Bassmaster, Outdoor Life, Field & Stream, North American Fisherman, Bass
Times and other outdoor publications. He has authored several books on freshwater
fishing and has won numerous awards for his writing and photography in his 43 years
as an outdoor journalist.
Don was born in Bay City, Michigan and grew up in Chicago. He earned degrees
in journalism from the University of Iowa and the University of Missouri, then began his
professional career as an advertising agency copywriter and video producer. He sold
his first freelance article to Bassmaster Magazine in 1970 and has written for every
issue of that publication since that date.
Don’s journalistic efforts have had a profound impact on the sport of bass fishing.
He was among the first outdoor writers to spread the gospel of catch and release to
bass anglers nationwide. His regular Bassmaster features, “A Day On The Lake,” “The
Weekend Angler” and “Bass Fishing Basics,” are enjoyed by anglers everywhere. He
also authored the popular “Harry ‘n Charlie” humor series, which delighted Bassmaster
Magazine readers for over 40 years.
Don has shared a boat with many of America’s top professional anglers and
guides, including Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston, Roland Martin, Hank Parker, Charlie
Ingram and the late Doug Hannon. Unlike many outdoor journalists, Don fishes regularly
and is an accomplished multi-species angler. He also draws upon his advertising and
video production expertise in his role as marketing consultant to the boat and tackle
industries.
Don has been married to his wife, Linda, for 46 years and they have one son,
Jeremy, who is also a hardcore angler. When he is not on the water, Don enjoys playing
guitar in the popular Nashville classic rock band “Boomerang.”
Don Wirth’s philosophy about outdoor writing is simple: “Get the reader excited
about going fishing, be straight with him, and teach him how to become a better angler.
Then you’ve made a friend for life.”