Online derby to benefit C.A.S.T. for Kids

CHAPIN, S.C. – This holiday season, the Fishers of Men Tournament Trail invites anglers across the United States to participate in an online Santa Bass Fishing Tournament, a charity event supporting the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation. C.A.S.T. for Kids is a non-profit that brings the sport of fishing to children with special needs.

The event kicks off on Nov. 24 and runs through December 15th, offering participants the chance to win valuable prizes while supporting a meaningful cause.

"By participating in the Santa tournament, you are sharing the joy of fishing with children with special needs and their families in 2025,” said C.A.S.ST. Executive Director Jay Yelas. “A day of fishing is a gift of respite for families with children with special needs. Many of these families do not have the resources, equipment, and experience to introduce their children to the sport of fishing. By attending a C.A.S.T. for Kids event, children with special needs receive a fishing rod and reel and tackle box and learn how to fish with the help of tremendous volunteers.

"Families often discover that fishing is a hobby that everyone can enjoy. Your support not only helps supply children with the necessary equipment to catch the big one, but your support also helps celebrate these children by helping us host award ceremonies at every event where children receive a personalized plaque and have an opportunity to share their fishing story from the day. Thanks for helping us give the gift of fishing to many families across the nation.”

With an entry fee of $30 (plus a small Fishing Chaos application registration fee), the Santa Tournament will split proceeds in a 50/50 format: half will benefit the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, and the other half will go directly into the cash payout for top participants. Anglers can fish in any public water across the United States. This unique format enables anglers to fish as many days and locations as they wish, creating ample opportunities to catch their best fish.

This CPR (catch-photo-release)-style tournament will be conducted through the Fishing Chaos app, which allows participants to register catches and measure fish using an approved weigh board. Cash prizes will be awarded based on the combined length of an angler’s five largest black bass (largemouth, smallmouth or spotted), with additional prizes for creative Santa attire or holiday-decorated boats.

For every 10 participants, the tournament will pay out one place, providing numerous cash prizes.

Anglers interested in competing in the can register through the Fishing Chaos application. More information on entry fees, tournament rules, and scheduling can be found on the application.

For more about the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, click here.

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