Fishing for the Mission 22, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders, will kick off their 4th Annual Black Sea Bass Tournament this week with all proceeds going to support mental health for veterans. The event will take place from May 29 to May 31, 2026, serving as a community gathering to raise awareness and critical funds for veteran suicide prevention, while also fostering a fun and competitive fishing atmosphere.
As the nation’s largest black sea bass tournament, this event is the primary fundraiser for the organization’s flagship programs. These initiatives provide the necessary resources to assist those struggling with PTSD, transition challenges, and other service-related needs.
Tournament Schedule & Key Locations:
- Captain’s Check-In & Kickoff Party: Thursday, May 28, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Check-ins will be held at three regional locations:
- Rod & Rail (Buzzards Bay, MA)
- The Parrot Bar & Grill (Cataumet, MA)
- Dick’s Bait & Tackle (Martha’s Vineyard, MA)
- Tournament Fishing: Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31.
- Awards Ceremony: Sunday, May 31, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Stone Path Malt in Wareham, MA.
Tournament Details: Entry fees are set at $100 for adult anglers and $20 for junior anglers. Participants will compete for a variety of prizes, including a $3,000 top prize for the largest black sea bass. This year’s tournament also features a unique “Tagged Fish” challenge; any angler who catches one of the 22 fish tagged by the Division of Marine Fisheries with the “FFTM22” acronym is eligible for a $1,000 prize.
“A Mission of Healing and Awareness,” Fishing for the Mission 22 serves veterans, active-duty personnel, and first responders by offering a therapeutic, fishing-based pathway to healing. Committed to the total well-being of those who served, the organization provides behavioral health services, peer support, VA benefit assistance, and hardship grants through its community resource headquarters in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts.
A core component of the mission is raising awareness regarding the pressing reality that 22 or more veterans lose their lives to suicide each day in the United States. This statistic underscores the urgent need for accessible support and compassionate connection. By providing meaningful pathways to hope, Fishing for the Mission 22 aims to transform care for our nation’s heroes, one cast at a time.
All proceeds from the tournament go directly toward funding comprehensive support services, ensuring veterans can participate in these programs at no cost. For more information, registration details, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit fishingforthemission22.org.
