Professor William (Bill) W. Taylor from Michigan State University transformed modern day inland fisheries research and management by embracing a more holistic science reflecting his systems level thinking. Moreover, he recognized that fisheries science was much more than biology and created opportunities to combine natural and social sciences in meaningful and effective ways. Rather than working just in his back yard (the Laurentian Great Lakes of North America), Professor Taylor extended his reach in his quest to achieve sustainable and responsible inland fisheries around the globe. He recognized he could not do it alone and engaged in thoughtful and purposeful efforts (to engage trainees to ensure that the next generation was prepared) and fisheries professionals from around the globe (to build capacity and ensure agency over management of resources in their home regions). In this paper I reflect on lessons that I have learned from my friend, colleague and mentor Professor Bill Taylor about how to engage in inland fisheries research and management for the benefit of all.