Gene Gilliland, a widely respected bass biologist and conservation advocate spent 32 years as a bass research biologist and eventually Assistant Chief of Fisheries for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.  Now as B.A.S.S. National Conservation Director, he represents America’s bass anglers on national boards and councils involved in resource conservation.  In addition, he advises and mentors the 47 B.A.S.S. Nation state conservation directors and works to build solid relationships with state fishery management agencies.  Having authored “Keeping Bass Alive, a Guidebook for Tournament Anglers and Organizers,” he is also responsible for maintaining and improving fish care practices on each of the Bassmaster tournament circuits.