It all started in 1976 with these two gentlemen. They got together in 1974 when they were fishing for some bass. Decided to wait two more years so that the founding coincides with America Bicentennial celebration and asked friends to gather at Toledo Bend in Louisiana.
The first tournament was held here at Lake Toledo Bend, in June 6th to 8th, 1976. The first general meeting was hosted at the Pendleton Bridge Resort on June 7th at 1:15PM
The late Robert Southwell (L) and the late Anthony Mowad (R).
The very first NBAD tournament was a historic milestone, organized and run by the founders—Anthony Mowad and Robert Southwell—whose shared vision and leadership brought deaf anglers together through the sport of bass fishing. Their passion and commitment laid the foundation for what would grow into a strong and enduring community. Although the first tournament had humble beginnings, it was a meaningful success that paved the way for decades of competition and camaraderie. Today, only a few treasured items remain from that inaugural event, including a flyer, some tournament records, and a handful of photographs. These rare pieces offer a glimpse into NBAD’s roots and serve as a lasting tribute to the legacy of Mowad and Southwell.
