John Martino

One of the preeminent outdoors experts in the area, John Martino has served the Howard County community for nearly four decades. Martino has received numerous honors for his contributions to the City of Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department where he served in a variety of roles, including superintendent, for 31 years.

Martino is best known for having co-founded the Jim “Moose” Carden Kids Fishing Clinic in 1984. Since its inception, the clinic has taught more than 5,000 children the joys of fishing. In 1999 the clinic was inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, which recognizes the nation’s top youth fishing programs. In recognition of his dedication, in 2013 Martino received the Sagamore of the Wabash, which is the most prestigious award given by Indiana’s governor. Martino was also the recipient of the Distinguished Hoosier Award and the City of Kokomo Lifetime Achievement Award.

Martino has also been the weekly outdoors columnist for the Kokomo Tribune and the Logansport Pharos Tribune for over three decades, along with writing for several other statewide publications.

Martino continues to be a steward for the community’s environment and natural resources. He has taught the Howard County hunter education class for over two decades and also aids area youth in 4-H shooting sports.