Dale Bowman, longtime Sun-Times outdoors columnist, escapes for new adventure
After nearly 30 years of bringing outdoor stories to Sun-Times readers, Dale Bowman bids farewell and looks forward to a new chapter. His journey was defined by a mix of journalistic curiosity, personal connections, and a love of the natural world.
Building a career through key encounters
Bowman recalled a defining moment from 1997, during the Chicago Bulls’ championship era, when an unexpected phone call with Jerry Krause turned into a memorable column. That story became a turning point in his career and solidified his reputation among sports and outdoors readers alike.
“I couldn’t believe it when Jerry Krause picked up his phone on a trip to Cleveland in 1997 and started talking fishing. I was quick-witted enough to begin typing. It became my best column to that point.”
Sports editor Bill Adee even framed the column as a gift for Krause’s office at the Berto Center, marking the early recognition of Bowman’s distinctive voice.
Guidance from community and colleagues
Bowman credited three early influences that helped shape his path as an outdoors columnist:
- Jerry Krause lent credibility through genuine engagement and conversation.
- The Palmisano brothers of Henry’s Sports and Bait gave him the tip about the Illinois-record brown trout before social media made news instant.
- Ken Schneider and Carl Vizzone showed him fishing spots across Chicago and northwest Indiana, introducing him to everyday locals who became central to his stories.
Life behind the stories
Bowman also recalled how Krause’s strong opinions about other journalists occasionally intersected with newsroom life.
“Krause said he hated Jay Mariotti, a Sun-Times sports columnist, so much that Krause and Jerry Reinsdorf would not talk to the paper.”
Despite that tension, Bowman kept his connection with Krause alive. At times, editors asked him to reach out for quotes, but Bowman’s calls often turned into casual discussions about fishing and upcoming outdoor shows instead of formal interviews.
Looking back, Bowman’s nearly three decades at the Sun-Times were shaped by trust, curiosity, and a shared passion for the outdoors that bridged the worlds of sports and nature.
Author’s summary
Dale Bowman’s farewell from the Sun-Times reflects a career built on authentic relationships, keen observation, and a deep appreciation for Chicago’s outdoor and sports scene.