Tributes to three-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year Aaron Martens

Tributes have been paid to one of the best and most popular bass professional anglers, Aaron Martens, who has died at the age of 49 after a battle against cancer.

Described on the website, Wired2fish, as one of the best competitive anglers ever to live, Martens competed in 241 tournaments and amassed career winnings of $3m. That included 20 Bassmaster Classic appearances and three Bassmaster Angler of the Year awards.

Wired2fish Publisher Jason Seaock wrote on its website: “Aaron was the biggest hearted person I met in the fishing industry. We say people are big hearted, but Aaron really was all heart when it came to everything because he wanted you to have as much fun fishing as he was. He just had a rare love for everyone in the fishing fraternity.”

Fishing rod components manufacturer American Tackle released a tribute to Martens. It said: “American Tackle is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of pro-angler Aaron Martens. A truly beloved and prominent member of the fishing community, Aaron will be sorely missed. We were lucky enough to spend a great deal of time with the Bassmaster legend, building very fond memories of talking with him about rod components and where things were going in our industry. 

“One story was when he talked with us about how he would weigh every single item in his boat to be able to know exactly how fast he could go and how much fuel he needed; Aaron was truly one of those one in a million, cut from a different cloth. 

“American Tackle considers it both an honour and a privilege to have been a part of Aaron Martens’ world, and have him be a meaningful presence in our company’s journey – the man was a legend and a good friend. From all of us at American Tackle Co., Aaron you will be missed.”