Captains For Clean Water welcomes new member to the Board of Directors

13 November 2025

Lifelong outdoorsman and clean water advocate Bob Brooks joins Board of Directors

Captains For Clean Water (CFCW) is proud to announce that Bob Brooks, a lifelong outdoorsman and respected figure in the fishing and sporting goods industry, has joined its Board of Directors.

Brooks attended the first Captains For Clean Water meeting in 2016, at a time when a water crisis was crippling southwest Florida and supercharging toxic algal blooms off Sanibel, right in his backyard. Since then, he has remained a steadfast supporter, driven by his belief that restoring the natural flow of the Everglades and stopping harmful discharges are essential not only for the fishing and boating communities, but for Florida’s tourism, real estate, and thousands of small businesses that depend on healthy waterways.

From our earliest days operating out of a small storage room office, Bob was there—always ready to contribute in any way he could. He has witnessed the organization’s growth from the ground up, and his passion, extensive experience in the outdoor and retail industries, and personal connection to our mission make him an ideal addition to the board. It’s truly inspiring to see someone who has been part of our journey from the very beginning step into this leadership role.

Alycia Downs, Chief Program & Development Officer, Captains For Clean Water

Bob Brooks fly fishing on Sanibel Island

Brooks grew up immersed in the fishing tackle and sporting goods business, giving him a lifelong connection to the outdoors and the water. Over his career, he’s worked with major manufacturers and national retailers to help millions of Americans experience the outdoors.

I bring 45 years of business experience in the outdoor industry, along with a lifetime passion for the resource we’re fighting to protect. I want to help bridge the gap between industry, advocacy, and everyday people—to make sure that clean water is understood not as an environmental luxury, but as an economic necessity.

Bob Brooks

As a coastal resident for more than 50 years, he spends over 200 days a year fly-fishing across Florida, witnessing firsthand the beauty and fragility of the state’s waterways. With two sons who are avid saltwater anglers—one captaining a sportfishing yacht—his dedication to the fight for clean water is also deeply rooted in family. He’s driven by the desire to ensure that his children and grandchildren inherit a Florida where clean water, thriving fisheries, and vibrant coastal ecosystems remain a way of life.

Bob Brooks speaking in Tallahassee during CFCW's fight against bad bill SB 2508 in 2022.

I’ve seen Florida’s waters at their best and their worst. I’m here to help make sure our children and grandchildren experience the best version.

Bob Brooks

With Brooks' new seat on the board, he will have the opportunity to strengthen relationships between the organization and outdoor brands while fostering national support within the outdoor community.

Captains For Clean Water is a Florida-based 501(c)3 grassroots nonprofit on a mission to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems for the use and enjoyment of all. Founded in 2016 by fishing guides, CFCW has united the outdoor industry, business community, and concerned citizens at the forefront of the fight for clean water—the lifeblood of Florida’s economy and $85.9 billion tourism industry. Learn more at captainsforcleanwater.org or follow along on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and TikTok.