This past Saturday, the California Bass Contenders had the honor of joining forces with Cast for Kids, an incredible nonprofit organization that hosts fishing and boating events across the country for children with special needs, disabilities, and disadvantages. Their mission is simple but powerful — to enrich the lives of kids through the joy of fishing, boating, and the great outdoors. Every child leaves with a rod and reel combo, a tackle box, a trophy, and most importantly, a huge smile. You can learn more about their mission and upcoming events at www.castforkids.org
This time, the action took place at beautiful Lake Silverwood, and several Contenders stepped up to volunteer their boats, gear, and time to make sure every kid got a chance to catch fish and make some lasting memories.
Special thanks to Dean, Tom, Sherman, Johnny, Steve, Chris, and Frank — each of these guys spent their Saturday giving back and helping kids experience that same thrill we all remember from our first fish.
Captain Chris “Compa” Graziano reached out a few days before the event, and I couldn’t have been happier to join in. We both brought it back old-school style — digging out the light gear, tying on some red worms, and showing the kids the magic of a bobber disappearing under the water. Our young angler for the day, Leilani, a sharp and fearless 4th grader, lit up the moment her Thill balsa float dipped and she set the hook on a keeper largemouth bass that absolutely inhaled her worm. That smile said it all — mission accomplished.
It’s hard to put into words how rewarding it is to see kids light up over something we all love so much. Between the laughs, the misguided casts into the trees, and the shouts of “fish on!”, everyone walked away with a full heart and a reminder of why we fish in the first place.
If you’ve ever thought about giving back through fishing, Cast for Kids is the perfect way to do it. The next event is always just around the corner, and they’re always looking for good folks with a boat, a few rods, and a big heart.
Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more can reach out to one of our club members — we’d love to have more Contenders join the next event and help make a difference one cast at a time.
