William "Bill" Casper was born on January 29, 1931, on a farm on the east shore of Lake Winnebago in Taycheedah, Wisconsin. He has spent his entire life in this area, except for four years during the Korean War. Casper grew up on the family farm, which he continued to be associated with throughout his life. He was introduced to hunting and fishing at an early age by his uncles, particularly Ambrose Langenfeld, who played a significant role in shaping his interest in sturgeon spearing. At the age of 14, Casper speared his first sturgeon. In 1977, Casper became one of the founding members of Sturgeon for Tomorrow, an organization dedicated to the conservation and management of the sturgeon population in Lake Winnebago. He served as the president of the organization for 27 years, during which time he was instrumental in organizing fundraising events, community meetings, and collaborating with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to implement conservation measures. Casper's efforts have significantly contributed to the preservation and enhancement of the sturgeon population in the region. Throughout his life, he has remained actively involved in sturgeon spearing, often sharing his knowledge and experiences with the younger generation.

Scope and Content Note
The interview conducted with William Casper on April 11, 2007, at his home in Taycheedah, Wisconsin, covers various aspects of his life and experiences related to sturgeon spearing and conservation efforts. The interview begins with Casper recounting his early life, including his upbringing on a farm by Lake Winnebago and his initial exposure to hunting and fishing. He provides detailed anecdotes about his first experiences with sturgeon spearing, highlighting the influence of his uncles and the traditions they passed down to him. Casper discusses the founding of Sturgeon for Tomorrow, outlining the initial motivations and the steps taken to establish the organization. He describes the challenges faced in organizing the fishermen and gaining support from the community and the DNR. The interview includes specific details about the early meetings, the first fundraising dinner, and the formation of additional chapters. Casper also reflects on the changes in sturgeon fishing regulations over the years and the impact of these changes on the sport and the sturgeon population. The interview captures Casper's personal experiences and his long-term commitment to sturgeon conservation. He shares insights into the practical aspects of sturgeon spearing, including the equipment used, the techniques learned from his mentors, and the cultural significance of the sport in the local community. Casper's narratives provide a valuable historical perspective on the evolution of sturgeon spearing and conservation efforts in the Lake Winnebago region.