From California Fly Fisher:
San Francisco, CA – August 26, 2025 — Two contributors to California Fly Fisher have received top honors from the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) in its 2025 Excellence in Craft Awards, recognizing the best in outdoor communication nationwide.
- Obi Kaufmann, noted naturalist and artist, earned First Place in Graphic Illustration for “Klamath Watershed,” a vivid visual representation of the Klamath River ecosystem. His work celebrates the largest river restoration project in U.S. history, with fact-rich artwork highlighting the removal of four dams and the ecological hope this effort represents.
- Joel “Jody” Martin, Associate Vice President for Research and Curator of Crustacea at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, won First Place in Magazine, Fishing for “The Stars in Our Eyes.” This heartfelt feature showcases Jody’s work with Casting for Recovery, highlighting the transformative power of fly fishing to inspire hope and the importance of finding beauty in small things.
Both award-winning pieces appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of California Fly Fisher.
Earlier this year, Jody’s “The Stars in Our Eyes” also earned First Place for Best Outdoor Feature Article from the Outdoor Writers Association of California (OWAC), making it a double award-winner in 2025.
“These honors highlight the exceptional creativity and insight that our contributors bring to the magazine,” said Tracey Diaz, Publisher of California Fly Fisher. “Obi and Jody’s work reflects the beauty and complexity of California’s waters and the anglers who love them.”
The OWAA Excellence in Craft Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across multiple media categories, honoring professionals who elevate the art and craft of outdoor communication.
For more information about California Fly Fisher or to view the award-winning pieces, visit www.calflyfisher.com.
