Business Spotlight: G&S Fish Market in Evadale holds annual Fish Fry honoring tradition

Daryin McInnis
daryin@silsbee-bee.com
The Silsbee Bee

​

EVADALE — What began as a simple family lunch has grown into a cherished Southeast Texas tradition rooted in generosity, gratitude and community.
About two decades ago, Glen Conner, owner of G&S Fish Market in Evadale, was looking for a way to feed his five children while keeping them close as they worked together. Conner decided to prepare a midday meal of fried fish and frog legs, sharing food and fellowship with his family during the workday.
The idea quickly extended beyond the Conner household. At the time, then–Jasper County Sheriff Mitch Newman suggested opening the luncheon to others in the community. Conner agreed, and in November of that year, the first public fish fry was held. Attendance was modest, with about 20 people stopping by to eat and visit.
The following year, the event gained momentum. Roughly 50 people attended the second annual fish fry, including members of multiple law enforcement agencies, area officials and respected community leaders. Among those present were former U.S. Congressman Jack Brooks and several judges. The growing turnout confirmed that the event had struck a chord across the region.
What started as a small gathering soon became an annual tradition. Over the years, the number of attendees continued to rise steadily, and today the fish fry serves more than 500 people each year. Guests now include veterans, first responders, county employees and representatives from seven law enforcement agencies across Southeast Texas.
Despite the scope of the event, Conner continues to fund it himself, absorbing the cost as a personal act of appreciation for those who serve the community. Volunteers assist with preparation and service, helping transform the fish fry into a large-scale operation while preserving its welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
The community’s appreciation for Conner’s generosity has not gone unnoticed. Current Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard recently commended the longtime business owner in a social media post following this year’s event.
“We had a great morning in Evadale at the annual Fish Fry put on by Mr. Glen Conner with G&S Fish Market,” Havard wrote. “This is an annual event for the people of Southeast Texas to celebrate our veterans, first responders and county employees. Thank you to Mr. Conner and all of the men and women who volunteered for this event. Mr. Conner’s generosity is greatly appreciated. The food was awesome and the fellowship was just as good.”
According to Havard, six East Texas sheriffs attended this year’s gathering, underscoring the significance the event has gained throughout the region.