Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Tom Bzura Named New President of West Palm Beach Fishing Club

West Palm Beach, FL – One of America’s oldest fishing clubs has a new President. The board of directors of the West Palm Beach Fishing Club (WPBFC) has named Tom ‘Buzz’ Bzura, of North Palm Beach, as the organization's new President. Buzz has been working at the WPBFC for the past eight years, most recently serving as the organization’s Managing Director. In his new role as WPBFC President he will be responsible for producing all angling programs, the famous Silver Sailfish Derby & other tournaments, as well as managing the day to day operations at the nostalgic clubhouse in downtown West Palm Beach, built in 1940 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. “Buzz already has an excellent track record. He has increased club membership and created new opportunities for people who are passionate about fishing to get involved,” said WPBFC Chairman Pete Schulz of Fishing Headquarters tackle shop in Jupiter. Buzz takes the helm from longtime WPBFC President Tom Twyford who has worked at the fishing club for the past 36 years. Twyford will transition to a new role within the organization serving as the Executive Director of the WPBFC’s charitable affiliate, the Palm Beach County Fishing Foundation. “This is a healthy move for both the fishing club and its foundation. Buzz is bringing a lot of new energy and creativity to our programs and is doing a great job at connecting us to the next generation of anglers. The fishing club is in good hands. I look forward to shifting gears and focusing more of my time on our youth fishing programs and marine habitat initiatives,” said Twyford.

Many individuals have left their mark on the WPBFC over its nearly 90-year history. Past club presidents include none other than famous boat builder, conservationist and sportsman, John Rybovich. “It’s an honor to be named President of such a storied and venerable institution. The club is committed to continuing the its unique and valuable role in the community. We have incredible fishing off the Palm Beaches and a wonderful club here to facilitate angling programs and ensure there’s a healthy fishery for many years to come,” commented Bzura.

The WPBFC was founded in 1934 and currently has over 1,600 members. Its mission, aligned with that of the PBCFF, is to preserve local sportfishing history, and to promote recreational fishing and the conservation of Palm Beach County’s saltwater resources through fishing related education that engages members, families & kids, and the community at large.