Every weekend, fishing tournaments are happening at Lake Sam Rayburn.  Some of the tourneys draw hundreds upon hundreds of anglers, such as the Sealy Big Bass Splash and High School Tournaments, while others may just draw a few dozen. Reeling in that big bass or watching the scale explode with a massive stringer will definitely put a big smile on your face.  However, there's another type of fishing competition that goes above and beyond in bringing about feelings of elation and satisfaction.

C.A.S.T. (Catch A Special Thrill) for Kids is a public charity that was formed in 1991 to join volunteers who love to fish with children who have special needs and disadvantages for a day of fishing in the outdoors. I could try my best to be a wordsmith and explain the concept, but all you need to do is take a look at the videos and pictures later in the post and your heart will tell you all you need to know.

Two C.A.S.T. for Kids events will be coming in the fall to Lake Sam Rayburn.

Keith Combs Sam Rayburn Slam

One of the most successful professional anglers to hail from East Texas, Combs will be hosting this event on October 1 in Brookeland. This will be a free on-shore fishing event for children with special needs. The event is open to all children, ages 6-18, no matter their disability. Participants must pre-register online and the space is limited to the first 40 children who register.

There will also be a fundraising banquet and auction held in conjunction with this tourney.  This will take place on Friday, September 30 at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin. Doors will open at 5:30 and tickets and tables will go on sale on August 1. The guest speaker at the event will be Clay Dyer.

C.A.S.T. for KIDS on Sam Rayburn in Zavalla

This event on October 15 is brought to you by Brandon Belt Fishing. This will be a free boating and fishing event for children with special needs. The event is open to all children, ages 6-18, no matter their disability. Participants must pre-register online. Space is limited to the first 40 children who register.

A Need for Volunteers, Boats and Boaters

Volunteers are an integral part of these C.A.S.T. for Kids fishing events. Plus, experienced boaters with a boat to help children plus a parent or guardian learn proper fishing techniques from a boat are also in need. If you would like to help out, please sign up as a volunteer at any of the tournament links highlighted in the post.

C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation

This organization enriches the lives of children with special needs, supports their families, and strengthens communities through the sport of fishing. Here's a look at photos of some of their events.

Gallery Credit: Danny Merrell

2022 Brandon Belt $100K Grand Slam Fishing Tournament

Here's a look at some of the action and huge fish brought in for this inaugural tournament which paid out over $400K to anglers and over $100K to charity.

Gallery Credit: Danny Merrell

2022 Big Bass Splash on Lake Sam Rayburn

Here's a look at some of the highlights from the 2022 Big Bass Splash on Lake Sam Rayburn

Gallery Credit: Danny Merrell

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