Texas Tournament Zone is excited to remind you of the Fishin’ for Freedom event coming soon on Lake Belton. On October 9th and 10th, Central Texas anglers will thank our active duty military and our honorably discharged veterans for their service to our country. Our goal is to give those who serve the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors they so honorably protect. Last year’s Fishin’ for Freedom was a huge success; we took over 190 veterans fishing and gave away over $50,000 in cash and prizes!
This is an annual event on Lake Belton, where volunteer anglers are matched with these heroes for a fishing tournament. The tournament is Saturday, while on Friday night there will be a complimentary BBQ dinner at the Killeen Convention Center for all participants. Speakers at the event will be headlined by the one and only Forrest L. Wood, the founder of Ranger boats and a fishing industry legend!
We spoke with Rick Smith, owner of Marine Outlet and President of the Central Texas Marine Association (the host of the event).
“Marine Outlet has always been involved in community projects, but no project that we have ever done has been more exciting and fulfilling than participating in Fishin’ for Freedom. The crew and I are looking forward to being a part of the 2009 project!”
The past events have been a huge success, as Rick points out.
“In 2008 Marine Outlet participated in the Lake Belton Fishin’ for Freedom bass tournament, and I recently received an e-mail from a soldier in Iraq that said the 2008 event was one of his best memories while at home. He regrets that he is not going to be back in the states for this year’s event.”
This is a FREE bass tournament and there is no charge to the boaters and non-boaters, but pre-registration is required. First place team will be awarded a NEW Triton boat and trailer powered by a Mercury motor valued at $17,999.00! Additional prizes will be awarded to the top 20 teams.
These events are heavily supported, and only made possible through the generosity of sponsors, local businesses, volunteers, and devoted anglers. For more information or to make donations to the event, please contact Rick Smith at 254-773-9931, or by e-mail at rick.smith@fishingforfreedom.com.
Tournament details and registration are available in the Upcoming Events section under Fishin’ for Freedom ‘09 – Belton.
