Smedmanpriset, which is the foremost award in Swedish sport fishing, awarded by the traditional Dunkroken Guild in memory of the author and artist Rolf Smedman. Smedmanpriset 2023 awarded to Erik Degerman, Örebro and Ingemar Näslund, Östersund, both prominent authors, public educators and role models in fisheries and fisheries conservation.

The jury's motivation states: “The unique conditions on our earth are prerequisites for all life. Natural resources are the basis for human existence. Functioning ecosystems with their yield are the very basis for human existence, living conditions and quality of life.

Erik Degerman and Ingemar Näslund, has through his work identified the problematic coexistence of humans and fish and found constructive solutions and measures that can create a better balance in the relationship. It has given knowledge, insight and understanding of man's responsibility to preserve, care for and use natural resources worthy of protection for a more sustainable future.

Either individually or jointly, side by side or together, in cooperation and collaborations, Erik Degerman and Ingemar Näslund have created hopes that the people of the future will be able to have access to original, wild and healthy fish stocks.

The strategies preserve, protecting and restoring diversity is gathered under the concept of aquatic ecology.

Erik Degerman's personal interests, with extensive knowledge and experience, desire and commitment as well as responsible ambitions for water environments and aquatic diversity radiate together in concrete efforts with research, practical measures and writing in the service of man. The eternally circulating water is fundamental. Erik Degerman thus follows through and is an innovator in the spirit of Rolf Smedman.

Ingemar Näslund personifies the human ability and qualities to pay attention, realize, understand and use their resources with personal commitment and responsibility in research, management and mission for a more sustainable world where natural capital is a prerequisite for all life. Ingemar Näslund thus follows through and is an innovator in the spirit of Rolf Smedman."

-It is an honor for the venerable Dunkrokens Guild to go to each one, Erik Degerman, respectively Ingemar Näslund, get to hand over Rolf Smedman's honorary award year 2023, says Helge Jonsson, Gillesmästare i Dunkrokens Gille.