Ed Parten was the founder of the TBBU many years ago. The Texas Black Bass Unlimited has been instrumental in combating grass carp stockings on Lake Conroe, establishing boating lanes and dropping structure in Lake Livingston, and numerous other projects throughout our state for decades. Ed and the TBBU have stood up for anglers in the Texas Legislature, and petitioned for improved fisheries in our state for longer than I can remember. Ed's group was part of the first hydrilla war on Conroe back in the 1980's...and he built quite a reputation while battling the LCA, and Texas gov't against the carp. I've personally witnessed Ed getting booed while lakefront property owners walked out of town hall meetings when Ed stood up to talk.
Several years ago, Ed Parten was inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Hall of Fame. He was more than deserving of this recognition. I have worked alongside, and broke bread with Ed over the years...and am a better person for having known him.
Ed was diagnosed with a brain tumer about a year ago. He has been battling hard and going through treatments since that time. Unfortunately, Ed's options have run out...and he is currently in hospice care with just days left. Asking all to please keep Ed and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Much of what we enjoy regarding Texas bass fishing today is because Ed Parten
I've never had the fortune of meeting Ed, but from what I have heard and seen, he was a highly respected individual in the world of bass fishing and conservation. Prayers for Ed and family...
So sad, I know Ed. We have speed dialed each other in the past. Sweetheart of a guy! He and I had been trying to carve out a few days for interviews over the years. We both felt much of the TBBU story would die with him. I'm so sorry our procrastination led us down to THIS path. I should reach out to his wife tomorrow.
It was an honor to meet Ed after one of the "forums" that was led by Ron Gunter and TPWD at the LoneStar Convention Center in 2009 (I think). We all had dinner afterwards at Los Cucos in Conroe. Of course Ed would not let anyone pay.
In 2013, when we received the TCEQ Partnership award, I had the honor to again spend time with Ed. Of course, Ed flamboyantly wore a full suit, but it was full purple.
For those that are not familiar, here is a video where Ed spoke: