The following was originally presented as a speech during the 2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup Billfishing Series Awards Reception, held on the evening of September 25, 2026, in Founder’s Hall at Charles Towne Landing.

Our final special recognition award is the Carroll A. Campbell Award, created to honor individuals and families who have been an integral part of billfish conservation in our state and who embody Mr. Campbell’s principles and passions. This award is one of the Series’ most prestigious honors, recognition of a lifetime of commitment and service to everyone here today, as well as every angler who enjoys blue water fishing off our state’s coast.

This year’s recipient has been involved with the Series nearly since its inception. Over several decades, he has contributed to the Gov Cup as a committed boat owner, a generous sponsor, and a trusted board member. He served on the Gov Cup’s board for 6 years in the mid-2000s and spent a year leading important discussions as its chairman.

Afterward, he went on to serve on DNR’s Law Enforcement Advisory Committee, providing critical guidance in the state’s efforts to protect and manage South Carolina’s natural resources, as well as hunters and anglers. 

He’s a familiar face, a giant, friendly figure with a Santa-like beard often seen walking the docks and greeting friends. He gives a famously firm handshake, one that might even take you to the ground if you’re not prepared for the impending grip and pull.

He’s a constant source of support for his team, or really, his family. Time together isn’t just spent on the water. It’s spent on the lake or in the field too. His crew looks to him as their coach, the man keeping them straight in the cockpit from the comfort of the mezzanine. And he’s something of a lucky horseshoe too. He only fished four days this summer – two days during the Georgetown tournament and two days during Edisto. His team would go on to win both events.

He’s been involved in countless podium finishes, first aboard his boat, Overspray, then for many years with Norman Pulliam and the Rascal program, and now as the proud owner of the Rascal.

A man of great character and inspiring generosity, he’s known for regularly inviting guests aboard the Rascal, exposing people of various backgrounds and interests to offshore sportfishing for the very first time. Understandably, he’s been credited for creating numerous blue water anglers, a feat that would certainly make Governor Campbell very proud.

So, with that, it is our great privilege and honor to announce that this year’s Carroll A. Campbell Award goes to Mr. Foster McKissick.