RICHARD (DICK) MAY

By getting laws passed, influencing DFG plans and litigating when necessary, May has made it possible for millions to enjoy quality trout and steelhead fishing in California.

As the architect of the organization California Trout, May is the chief individual responsible for California's Wild Trout Program, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and the saving of Mono Lake and restoration of Rush Creek. The court decision, known as Cal Trout I, is renowned for its application of water law to protect trout. In addition, he is largely regarded as the key leader who stopped dams on the Smith River, and who saved, restored or opened countless other waters for trout and steelhead fishing. May is a fly fisher who has fished most of the state's blue ribbon waters, mastering a difficult art with long casts and soft landings under difficult conditions.