MLF’s Kathy Fennel named a ‘game changer’

Kathy Fennel, Executive VP and General Manager of Major League Fishing (MLF), has been named a ‘game changer’ by the Sports Business Journal (SBJ).

The US publication included Fennel in its 2023 SBJ Game Changers: Women in Sports Business, which acknowledges women for their contributions, innovative approaches and ideas, for leading significant projects and serving as mentors to other women in the industry.

Fennel, who was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame last year, has for more than 40 years been a leading voice in bass fishing and has become one of the most influential people in the fishing industry. She has helped build bass fishing from a fragmented assortment of regional tournaments into a multi-billion dollar industry.

“We are incredibly proud of Kathy and the legacy she continues to create for women in our sport,” said Boyd Duckett, MLF President and CEO. “She has paved the way for future generations of women.”

Fennel oversees day-to-day operations for the entire MLF, which includes seven circuits, headlined by the Bass Pro Tour. The MLF produces more than 250 events annually that reach 20 million viewers across five networks.

SBJ will profile members of the 2023 class of Game Changers in its September 25 issue, prior to recognising them at the SBJ Game Changers Conference on October 24.