Committee
Executives


Ben Gottfried
Past President
Rick Frank
President
I have had the privilege of being an active member with HRSTA since 2019, began serving as a Director at Large in 2020, and have served as President since 2023. Many of my most cherished memories are of fishing with my parents, family, and friends, and now nothing brings me more joy than taking out friends and watching their smiles as they often hold the biggest catches of their lives. While I am an environmental scientist in my career, I have found that helping with HRSTA initiatives has allowed for me to have a meaningful impact on this incredible ecosystem and fishery right in our backyard and I take great pride in being able to help promote and improve it through everything that we do. Please join us as we continue to work towards making our region one of the most prolific, iconic, and sustainable fishing destinations around!
Jay McBurney
Vice President
I was raised in a fishing family and spent countless hours fishing in the Grand River watershed. After earning a degree in biology from the University of Guelph, I spent several years chasing salmon in the Fraser Valley, where I developed a deep respect for Pacific Salmon. When I moved to Halton, my passion for salmon fishing shifted from saltwater to freshwater. I joined HRSTA in 2019 and became a member of the executive in 2023, driven by a desire to give back to this remarkable fishery.
Dan Brown
Treasurer
Danielle Versluis-Lopata
Secretary & Social Media Manager
I developed a passion for fishing at a young age, learning the sport from my dad, and have carried that love with me throughout my life. In 2021, I joined HRSTA to compete in the Fish Hawk CPR Derby, where I earned the title of Fish Hawk Angler of the Year. My connection with the organization deepened as I witnessed HRSTA’s dedication to preserving the local fishery and promoting environmental conservation. Eager to contribute to its mission, I began managing HRSTA’s social media platforms and regularly attending meetings. My involvement grew, and in 2022, I was appointed as a Director at Large. As the organization’s initiatives continued to inspire me, I took on additional responsibilities, becoming an Executive Member in 2023, serving as the Social Media Coordinator and Secretary. Through these roles, I remain committed to advocating for sustainable fishing practices, protecting local waterways, and actively participating in HRSTA's initiatives as well as community efforts.
Directors at Large


Bill Jackson
Mat Urbanski
Fishing and the great outdoors have been an itegral part of my life since I was two years old. What started with a simple bobber and worm has grown into a deep education in science, ecology, and all aspects of fisheries. As a passionate angler and invested commercial operator, I am committed to promoting stewardship, conservation, and sustainability through our outreach initiatives and the Zone 20 council. I encourage you to get involved, embrace responsible stewardship, and be the change you wish to see.
Derek Bethlehem
Derek Smith
I became a member of HRSTA in 2024, after meeting fellow members while fishing at Bronte Creek in Oakville. We shared concerns about problem behaviors during the annual salmon migrations. Since my first year, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed participating in events like Salmon Penning, Tree Planting, Creek Clean-Ups, and the Bronte Classic Derby, where I handled the captain's bags in 2024. Some of my fondest memories are of fishing in Vermont with my father and family, catching Rainbow and Brook trout. In 2017, my son developed a passion for fishing, and now it’s something we do together regularly. In 2024, my daughter and I planted trees along 16 Mile Creek with HRSTA, returning every few months to see how they’ve grown. I highly recommend joining HRSTA and getting involved in the various projects and initiatives that benefit Halton’s ecology and environment.
Lorna Deeth
Although I have always been an outdoor enthusiast, I only discovered fishing later in life. It started with casual shoreline trips with friends and eventually led to salmon fishing on Lake Ontario. With a background in statistics and biology, I joined HRSTA in 2023 to contribute my expertise to their sustainable fishery and habitat restoration efforts. Through my work with HRSTA, I aim to make a positive impact on local ecosystems and advocate for the management policies that sustain our fisheries.
Sean Doyle
After retiring from a 40-year career in the tire industry, I felt it was the right time to become more involved in supporting our local fishing community. Having attended several HRSTA annual meetings, I was inspired by the passion of its members. We are fortunate to have a world-class fishery right at our doorstep, and I want to contribute by learning how I can help educate others, support conservation efforts, and promote the sport. To start, I joined HRSTA to connect with like-minded individuals. Another great way to engage with the community is by participating in local events that benefit both the environment and our fishery—such as tree planting and creek cleanups. There are plenty of opportunities to give back. I’m excited to see how the association evolves and grows in the years ahead.
Dave Pereira
Since 2011, I have been a dedicated advocate for fishing on Lake Ontario, combining my passion for both competitive and recreational angling. Over the years, I gained valuable experience navigating the lake's unique challenges and opportunities, fostering a deep respect for its fishery and ecosystem. Committed to preserving Lake Ontario's vibrant fish populations for future generations, I actively contribute to conservation initiatives as a member of HRSTA. I leverage my expertise to educate fellow anglers on sustainable practices and support efforts to maintain the lake's ecological health.
Zach Holle
Bryce Labreche
Darren Baiton
(non-voting)