Fishing’s Future Names Tom Lang Executive Director

S. PADRE ISLAND – This historic appointment marks a significant milestone for the organization as it continues to expand its efforts to serve the mission of connecting families and communities to the joys and stewardship of fishing and fisheries conservation.

A recognized leader in fisheries conservation and education, Tom Lang brings a wealth of experience to the role. His nearly two decades of service with state fish and wildlife agencies include leadership roles at Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he served as Director of the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, and directed statewide outreach for the Inland Fisheries Division, including innovative initiatives such as the Toyota ShareLunker Program, Fish Art Contest, Angler Recognition Program, and the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. Lang’s experience also includes service with Kansas Wildlife and Parks, where he coordinated major angler education and community fishing programs. Throughout his career in state agency service and as the Founder and CEO of Lang Conservation Partners, he has consistently built strategic mutually beneficial partnerships among conservation organizations, industry leaders, foundations, and private individuals to advance fisheries conservation and the future of fishing.

“I am honored to transition into this new role with Fishing’s Future at such a pivotal time,” said Lang. “Fishing’s Future has made a tremendous impact across our Nation and beyond. Through angler education, Fishing’s Future has strengthened family bonds, increased fishing participation, and nurtured the fisheries conservation and stewardship ethic of millions. Unfortunately, everyday millions more families are missing out, and it breaks my heart. Together, with our partners, we’re going to help those families get to the water and make lasting memories.”

Having worked closely with Fishing’s Future on family fishing initiatives, Lang is well-positioned to lead the nonprofit’s mission of strengthening family bonds through fishing education and conservation. As Executive Director, he will further expand Fishing’s Future’s educational impact, ensuring future generations connect with conservation and family traditions.

“I have had the pleasure of serving this important mission alongside Shane Wilson (Fishing’s Future Founder) since the early days of Fishing’s Future,” Lang said. “Shane and Michael are truly inspirational and the master angler volunteers, my goodness, that is where the bobber meets the water. I’m so very grateful for their dedication in the classroom and on the docks, taking families fishing. That is what it’s all about, and we need more master anglers and more families fishing!”

Lang is a graduate of Purdue University (Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences) and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (M.S. in Aquaculture/Fisheries) and is an accomplished author and editor in the fisheries science and angling education fields. He has contributed to multiple American Fisheries Society books and organized international symposia on key topics such Angler recruitment, retention, and reactivation, urban fishing, and angling education. His leadership service extends to serving on the boards of the American Fisheries Society, the Aquatic Resources Education Association, the National Fish Habitat Partnership, and previously, Fishing’s Future itself. Among his many honors are the American Fisheries Society’s Meritorious Service Award and being named a “Friend of Reservoirs” by the Reservoir Fish Habitat Partnership.

“Fishing’s Future is extremely excited to bring Tom Lang on board as our Executive Director,” said Shane Wilson. “Tom has spent his entire lifetime in preparation for this position. Fishing’s Future, over the last 18 years, has brought millions of people into the sport of fishing through education—and with Lang’s vision and proven leadership, the organization enters into a new era of innovation and impact.”

For more information, to start a chapter, volunteer, or otherwise support Fishing’s Future and its mission to strengthen family bonds though fishing.