I'll always remember the first time I "officially" met Todd Overton. Mid 1990's, bumped into him at a big fish farm in Lonoke, Arkansas. I knew about him, the newest young guy in the pond stocking business. He'd bought a fish farm from an old head who'd thought he could retire and strike it rich raising fish. I asked, "Are you Todd Overton?" With a gruff look and sharp retort, he said, "Who wants to know?" I knew at that moment the man had grit.

Todd Overton had grit. I'd bet he still does. When he called and asked if he could solicit business on the forum, I was happy to oblige him, as long as he took time to answer some questions along the way. He definitely did that. As his business grew, Overton Fisheries continued to be a friend of Pond Boss.

When we first heard of his cancer diagnosis a few years ago, I was struck by his young age. It's not fair for someone Todd's age to have to battle that horrible affliction. Hell, it's not fair for anyone of any age to have to battle that disease.

Todd Overton was a worker, a thinker, and great asset to the pond management industry. He's the first guy to raise hybrid stripers to advanced fingerling and subadult sizes, changing the way many people manage their lakes.

He's a tribute to our industry. With mud under his nails, fish in his heart, and customer service where people became his friends, Todd Overton has been a stalwart to everything we all believe in...stewardship of our land and water.

God received a great fisheries professional today. The rest of us lost one. Rest peacefully, Todd Overton. We will miss you. It's been an honor to know you, sir.

Teach a man to grow fish...
He can teach to catch fish...