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Bainbridge icon Pam Martin Wells passed away on Friday, April 11, after battling cancer for years. Her persistence and big dreams established her as a trailblazer for female anglers.

Martin-Wells, born in Bainbridge, Georgia, discovered her passion for fishing at a young age. What began as a childhood love grew into a lifelong journey, propelling her to the pinnacle of a sport long dominated by men. 

In the summer of 2022, Martin-Wells had one of her angling career highlights by emerging victorious in the Lady Bass Anglers Association Tournament in Bull Shoals, Arkansas—an achievement realized just days after she bravely received chemotherapy.

Despite the physical and mental hurdles that fighting cancer presents, Martin-Wells pressed on to compete, actively searching for normalcy after enduring many uncertain days. 

“After days of MRIs, doctors appointments, chemo and all kinds of medical chaos I told my husband I just wanted something to feel normal and I find that by being on the water. I’m a very strong-willed person, and there was no way I wasn’t going to compete in the tournament,” said Martin-Wells in an interview with The Post-Searchlight in 2022. “The directors talked about bringing me in from the tournament early, but there was no way I was going to quit.”

A trailblazer in the sport, she elevated competitive bass fishing with her groundbreaking achievements. As the first woman to qualify for and take part in the celebrated Bassmaster Classic, she broke down long-held barriers. Her career accomplishments include 32 national championships, 10 Angler of the Year honors, and inductions into the Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame, the Decatur County Sports Hall of Fame, along with being the first to enter the Women’s Pro Bass Fishing Hall of Fame.

Beyond the well-earned distinctions and accolades, Martin-Wells was a mentor and advocate for young anglers, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passion for fishing. She also served as the head coach of the Emmanuel College fishing team, where she nurtured talent and left a lasting legacy. Her contributions to the sport and her community have made her a celebrated figure.

She profoundly influenced young anglers in Bainbridge through her mentorship and advocacy. She was a role model who inspiring the next generation to pursue their passion for the sport. Martin-Well’s often participated in youth fishing clinics, sharing her expertise and encouraging young anglers to develop their skills and confidence.

She left an indelible mark on Bainbridge’s fishing community, transforming it into a hub of inspiration and opportunity.

She was more than just a celebrated angler—a beacon of courage and determination. Her influence also helped elevate the profile of fishing as a viable career path, encouraging local youth to dream big and aim for professional success. 

Martin Wells’ enduring legacy reflected her unwavering determination, exceptional skill, and heartfelt dedication. She established herself as a beloved icon in Bainbridge and a pioneer among the ranks of competitive fishing.

“I have been very blessed to be able to have the opportunities that God has given me,” said Martin-Wells in a previous interview with The Post-Searchlight. “Fishing and the outdoors allow me to see the value in what God has given not only to me, but this earth.”

Thank you for paving the next generation of anglers and revolutionizing this great fishing community of Bainbridge, Georgia.