For the first time in its 81-year history, the Fish & Boat Commission’s flagship periodical Pennsylvania Angler & Boater is providing a limited-edition series of fine art prints by acclaimed wildlife artist Ned Smith.

The prints will feature Commonwealth fish species and be included in the magazine as part of its regular offering to readers.

Starting with the July/August 2012 edition and proceeding through to the May/June 2013 edition, the PFBC will provide a series of six prints featuring American shad, largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, bluegill and brook trout. The original drawings by Smith were first distributed as a special print portfolio by the PFBC in the early 1980s.

PFBC Executive Director John A. Arway states, “Given the limited exposure for this series of fish drawings decades ago, we saw this 2012 series release as an excellent opportunity to reveal them to a new generation of our valued readership.”

In addition, Arway says, “Both Ned Smith and Pennsylvania Angler & Boater are synonymous with high quality, and we feel our readers deserve no less.”

Ned Smith began his distinguished art career by painting a cover for the January 1940 edition of Pennsylvania Angler, the forerunner of Pennsylvania Angler & Boater. His love of nature and for the Commonwealth’s fish species was evident in his paintings of game fish, as well as the countless hours that he spent fishing Pennsylvania’s waters. From his personal journals through to his polished gems of artwork, Smith’s observations, attention to detail, personal experiences and tremendous artistic talent proved to be a combination that produced fine art sought by many—from those who enjoy the outdoors to fine art gallery enthusiasts.

"Many people aren't aware of the many ways that Ned Smith worked closely with the Fish and Boat Commission during his lifetime," said Stephen V. Quigley, executive director of the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art.  "The release of these prints in Pennsylvania Angler & Boater will give readers an opportunity to learn more about Ned, and about the ways that the Center is working to sustain his legacy."

This print series will truly be a limited edition. The quantities for these high-quality prints on heavyweight paper are being strictly limited to the quantities of magazine copies ordered by the Commission.

Whether as a magazine subscriber or with a separate purchase of the editions, readers will be collecting a piece of Pennsylvania’s angling heritage, as captured by one of the world’s most gifted wildlife artists—Ned Smith.

Anglers and non-anglers alike are encouraged to purchase a magazine subscription or a gift subscription for someone they know who is an admirer of Mr. Smith’s artwork. Pricing to receive six 64-page editions per year is very affordable at $12 for one year and $30 for three years.

Subscriptions can be easily ordered through the Commission’s online store, The Outdoor Shop. Subscribers will have the satisfaction of ensuring their collection of this series while saving up to 44 percent off the magazine cover price.

6/25/2012