06/30/2026
Harold James Allen, 81, of Huxley beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and legendary professional bass angler, passed away peacefully June 26, 2026, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Known throughout the bass fishing world for his exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and unwavering passion for the outdoors, Harold dedicated much of his life to the sport he loved. As a respected professional angler and Hall of Fame fisherman, he spent decades on the water competing, teaching, mentoring, and sharing his knowledge with fellow anglers. His legacy extends far beyond tournament finishes and accolades—it lives on through the countless lives he touched and the generations of fishermen he inspired.
Fishing was the constant thread throughout Harold’s life. The water was where he felt most at home, and his reputation was earned through talent, determination, and countless hours spent pursuing the sport he loved. While fishing defined much of his journey, in later years he came to treasure the time spent building closer relationships with his family, creating memories that became some of life’s greatest rewards.
Harold was larger than life. He was known for his quick wit, unforgettable stories, infectious smile, and the rare ability to make complete strangers feel like lifelong friends. Fiercely competitive and deeply passionate about his craft, he loved sharing advice, debating fishing tactics, and encouraging anglers of every skill level. Many who met Harold walked away not only with better fishing knowledge but with a friend for life.
Harold lived by a simple philosophy: “Start early, stay late.” More than just a favorite saying, it was the way he approached life. Whether preparing for a tournament, chasing the next big catch, or facing life’s greatest challenges, he believed success came from showing up before everyone else and staying long after others had gone home. Those four words perfectly reflected the determination, grit, and perseverance that defined him.
Harold is survived by:
Wife, Kathleen Bird Allen
Son, James Harold Allen
Grandchildren:
Adrienne and Aaren
Great-grandchildren:
Tatum
Tommy
Lucy
Daughter, Andrea Allen Janke, her husband, Matt, and their children, Aidan, Lleyton, Lillie, and Harrison
Though the water may be a little quieter now, Harold’s legacy will continue to ripple through the lives of those who loved him. He lived life the only way he knew how—wide open—and those fortunate enough to have known him will never forget the wake he left behind.
In accordance with Harold’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no formal funeral service will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at his residence. At a later time, his family will carry out his final wish by returning him to the water he loved, scattering his ashes in his two favorite fishing holes.
It is only fitting that a man who spent a lifetime on the water will make one final cast there.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences.
Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine.
