The Rayburn Toy Bash Fishing Tournament sponsored by Outlaw Outdoors raised an astounding $28,019.93. for the Jasper County Blue Santa Program. The tournament was held on November 21 at the Umphrey Pavilion on Sam Rayburn.

A total of 124 teams entered the fishing tournament by donating two toys valued at $30 each or an entry fee of $60. There was also an additional side pot for $100.

Tournament Results

1st Place - Cody Wise & Zachary Bryan with a combined weight of 19.9 pounds $3,250

2nd Place - Clayton Boulware & Albert Collins with a combined weight of 19.10 pounds $2,450

3rd-4th Place split - Aaron Freeman & Kevin Walker with a combined weight of 17.23 $1,625

3rd-4th Place split - Mick Raydon & Danny Ferraro with a combined weight of 17.23 $1,625

Outlaw Outdoors is based out of Hunstville but produces bass tournaments on Sam Rayburn. They average 182 teams per tournament.

Wade wanted to give back to the community, and four years ago, he produced a tournament on the north end of the lake at Cassels Boykin Park benefiting Toys for Tots. The tournament was the same format with either toys or cash entry.

After the tournament, Wade decided to change to the Jasper County Blue Santa Program. He said the program is very regulated, and parents have to fill out applications. The best part is that 100 percent of the money donated goes straight to toys for the children. Local families in need right here in our county will have Christmas thanks to the tournament.

Wade was sold when he heard that deputies deliver the toys. "I just love the idea that deputies carry some of the toys to the kids. In today's world where cops are sometimes looked at as bad people, it is pretty sweet for a cop to pull up and make a little kid's Christmas."

Wade said he loves the idea that the kids learn that deputies someone to turn to when they need help.

This year Wade will ride along with the deputies as they deliver the toys. "I think it would be awesome for me to ride along and film a deputy knocking on the door and just seeing the emotional experience of a child receiving a toy. I think it would bring things full circle for our fishermen who support this event."

Photo courtesy Outlaw Outdoors