Hall of Fame 2025
In the past, NBAD recognized dedicated anglers through informal Hall of Fame acknowledgments, often based on their total tournament attendance, with certificates presented to honor their loyalty and commitment. As part of the 50th anniversary celebration, the NBAD board has officially decided to launch a formal Hall of Fame to honor individuals based not only on attendance, but also on their stats, achievements, and contributions to the organization. This exciting new chapter will begin with the introduction of the first official class of 2025 NBAD Hall of Fame inductees, to be honored at our 50th anniversary banquet. The future inductees will be honored at every five years. It will be a proud moment in NBAD history, celebrating those who have left a lasting impact on our community.
Gene Amons – Louisanna
Gene Amons was one of the original participants of the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD), beginning his involvement in 1976 and attending an impressive 37 times through 2019. He claimed 1st place at the inaugural tournament in 1976 with a remarkable total of 16.44 pounds and went on to win the NBAD Championship four more times. Over the course of his career, he also placed 2nd once and 3rd twice.
Known for his signature use of Texas-rigged plastic worms and his unmistakable Cajun personality, Gene’s legacy includes a legendary performance at Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma, in 1983, where he and Harry Trahan of Louisiana caught a combined total of 85 pounds and 14 ounces. His dedication, competitive spirit, and unique character have made him a cherished and iconic figure in NBAD history.
Charles Marsh – Kansas
Charles Marsh was one of the 62 original participants of the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD), attending 30 times between 1976 and 2005. He held leadership positions as both President and Vice President, serving a combined total of eight years. Charles was well known for wearing his trademark light blue jumpsuit adorned with badges and for using a bass boat manufactured by Bomber Boats. His total recorded catch weight in 1976 was a paltry 0.875 pounds—a fact he wore with pride and humor. Throughout his NBAD career, Charles placed 2nd twice and 3rd once, achievements that highlighted his dedication and love for the sport. He remains a beloved and memorable figure in the NBAD community.
Dennis Bacon – Missouri
Dennis Bacon has been a dedicated participant of the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD), attending 36 times from 1978 to the present. A fierce competitor on the water, Dennis has won the NBAD Championship five times, placed 2nd twice, and secured 3rd place twice.
Continuing the legacy of his father, who was a professional fisherman, Dennis developed a lifelong passion for the sport. He is especially known for his love of Ranger brand boats, which have been a staple throughout his fishing career. His consistency, skill, and deep-rooted connection to fishing have made him a respected and admired figure within the NBAD community..
Ron Smith – Missouri
Ron Smith has been a steadfast and loyal participant of the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD), attending 36 consecutive tournaments from 1988 to the present. He earned his first championship win at Lake Ouachita in 1992, followed by two victories at Lake Truman in 1996 and 2003. In total, Ron has secured four NBAD Championship titles. Over the course of his career, he has also placed 2nd three times and 3rd place twice.
Widely respected for his unwavering commitment and presence, Ron Smith represents the true spirit of loyalty to NBAD. His long-standing dedication, consistent performance, and strong support for the organization have made him a valued and admired figure in the NBAD community.
Rondale Ketchum – Arkansas
Rondale Ketchum began his journey with the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD) in 1986, marking the start of a remarkable legacy that would span decades. Over the years, he participated in 32 tournaments, demonstrating not only his love for the sport but also his deep commitment to the deaf angling community. In 1999, Ketchum stepped into a leadership role as Chair of the NBAD, guiding the organization with vision and integrity during a pivotal time in its growth. His leadership helped strengthen the association’s foundation and ensured it remained a welcoming space for deaf anglers across the country.
Beyond his competitive and leadership accomplishments, Ketchum served as Tournament Director for an outstanding 11 consecutive years—a role in which he thrived. His dedication to organizing fair, inclusive, and well-run tournaments earned him widespread respect and admiration. Through his tireless work, he became a role model within the NBAD, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he worked with. As he is inducted into the NBAD Hall of Fame, Rondale Ketchum is celebrated not only for his achievements but for the enduring legacy of leadership, service, and community.
Alan Rork – Indiana (posthumous)
Alan Rork attended the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD) 34 times from 1983 to 2019, establishing himself as both a strong competitor and a dedicated leader within the community. He earned two NBAD Championship titles—one at West Point Lake in Georgia in 1993, and another at Watts Bar Lake in Tennessee in 1998. In addition, he placed 2nd once and 3rd twice during his tournament career.
Alan also served the organization with distinction, holding the position of President for 12 years and Treasurer for 4 years. Beyond his leadership and angling achievements, Alan became a spiritual presence at NBAD events, often offering prayers and blessings before takeoffs. His contributions on and off the water have made him a deeply respected and cherished figure in NBAD history.
C. Dave Coles – Illinois (posthumous)
Dave Coles attended the National Bass Association of the Deaf (NBAD) 20 times between 1988 and 2010. Known for his dedication off the water, Dave served in every office position throughout his years of involvement, contributing significantly to the organization’s operations and spirit.
A petite and humble presence at tournaments, Dave was never one to take fishing too seriously—he was more concerned about the well-being of those around him than landing the biggest catch. His caring nature, supportive attitude, and behind-the-scenes leadership made him a beloved figure in the NBAD community.
