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BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — The Chad Day Fishing Tournament is making waves not just as a gathering for fishing enthusiasts, but as a heartfelt tribute to Chad Day, who succumbed to glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, at the age of 24.
This annual two-day event offers more than just the thrill of catch-and-release fishing. Participants can look forward to a grand raffle, a silent auction, and a community dinner. For detailed information about the event schedule, including the dates and times, visit the tournament’s website. Notably, the Captains meeting is slated for Friday, March 27th, with registration available until 6 p.m. that day.
Teams of up to four anglers can register for $320, which covers both the dinner and the fishing experience.
Over the years, this tournament has evolved into a vibrant community celebration. Following the loss of her son, Joann Day sought a meaningful way to commemorate his life and his love for fishing.
“I wanted to keep his memory alive, and a fishing tournament seemed like the perfect tribute because of his deep passion for the sport,” Joann shared. “I never imagined it would grow into what it is today.”
The tournament is going on its either and final year. It has raised over $100,00 dollars so far and the proceeds are donated to the Tidewell Foundation. Joann said Tidewell Hospice meant everything to her when her family needed it the most. “They were just fantastic. It was all free and I just like to pay it forward for anybody else that needs the care and compassion.”
The 2026 tournament is expected to be their biggest celebration of all and everyone is welcome to join in on the fun.