Many of you may not know who Charles Kelley was but if you fished or hunted in Alabama you should know he had a significant hand in your success. More about that later in this story.
I learned about Charles Kelley’s passing at my Wetumpka Lions Club meeting Monday as fellow members reminisced about his life. Mr. Kelley passed last week after an extended illness at the age of 91. He grew up in Wetumpka, Alabama where he and Joe Billy Fain started a casting club in the late 30’s or early 40’s that competed against other school casting teams. I suppose it was their roots on the Coosa River, flowing at their feet, that was their inspiration. My late father was also a member of that team.
Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis shared with us Mr. Kelley was the last surviving member of the “Honor Flight” he had the privilege of being a part. As most know the “Honor Flights” were one day trips carrying World War II Vets, which Tom Brokaw appropriately labeled “The Greatest Generation,” to DC and back as a way to show appreciation for their service. Kelley later served in The Air Force Reserve and the Alabama National Guard, retiring with the rank of Brigadier General.
After the war Kelley earned his degree from Auburn University and started a 39 year career with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources where he retired as Director of Game and Fish. I recall my dad telling me when he was young there were no deer in our Elmore County. Hard to imagine now since my wife Mary and I have to share nearly everything we grow with the deer herd in our neighborhood. Daddy also told me Charles Kelley was the main person responsible for the abundant deer and turkey population in Alabama. Under Kelley’s leadership Alabama became known for our fantastic hunting and fishing opportunities. Kelly won numerous conservation recognition awards nationally and was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2014 as a result of his wildlife management practices.
Where I really want to touch though is on the fishing side. If you remember the Bassmaster Elite event in Montgomery several years ago and other BASS events on the Alabama River, the Coosa River spotted bass was the star of the show. Kelley, and Fain mentioned earlier, lobbied diligently with FERC and Alabama Power to keep a minimum flow in the Coosa River from Jordan Dam to Wetumpka to protect this famous bass. Alabama is known as a bass destination due to the efforts of people like Charles Kelley who worked hard to protect our natural resources. Ever wonder why so many Elite Pros settle in Alabama? I would think the great fishing plays a big part in their decision.
R.I.P. Mr. Kelley. Thanks for your service to our great nation. And on behalf of outdoor lovers, thanks for all you have done so we can enjoy our favorite past time.
As a Bama fan I say to you “War Eagle”.
