Annual competition benefitting Wolfson Children’s C. Herman and Mary Virginia Terry Heart Institute returns to Palatka, Fla., May 15-17, 2025.
Press Release
The highly anticipated 36th Annual Wolfson Children’s Hospital Bass Tournament is set to take place from May 15 to May 17, 2025, at the Palatka City Dock in Palatka, Florida. This annual event, which has been a staple in the fishing community since 1989, is more than just a competition—it’s a heartfelt effort to support lifesaving technology and equipment at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
A Tradition of Giving
Since its inception, the tournament has raised over $7 million to fund specialized treatments and capital improvements at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. This year, proceeds will benefit the C. Herman and Mary Virginia Terry Heart Institute, ensuring that young patients receive the best possible cardiac care.
Tournament Details
Anglers from across the region will gather to compete in three distinct events:
- Lads & Lasses Tournament – Thursday, May 15 ($120 entry fee)
- VIP & Friends Tournament – Friday, May 16 ($120 entry fee)
- Main Tournament – Saturday, May 17 ($140 entry fee)
Participants must check in at the Palatka City Dock each morning to receive their respective boat number decals, livewell checks, and tournament exemption forms. Weigh-ins will begin at 3 p.m. each day, staggered in 10-minute increments by boat number.
More Than Just Fishing
Beyond the competition, the tournament fosters a sense of community and hope. Last year, the event raised $385,000 for Wolfson Children’s Hospital, helping to fund state-of-the-art cardiology and heart surgery equipment. The tournament also features a boat drawing, giving participants a chance to win exciting prizes while supporting a great cause.
2025 Ambassador
At 20 weeks gestation, it was discovered that Rowan would be born without the fourth chamber of his heart. He underwent the first of three open-heart surgeries at just two weeks old and has spent many months in the Cardiovascular-ICU.
“Rowan has not only survived, he is thriving” said Rowan’s mom. “We are so incredibly grateful to the incredible staff at Wolfson Children’s – and we mean everyone! From the janitorial staff, to his “angel nurses” (as we call them), to every doctor and specialist handling Rowan’s case – we have felt so loved and supported throughout this journey. We feel seen and included, but most importantly, we trust their wisdom to repair his heart and guide him forward to complete recovery.”
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time participant, this tournament offers a unique opportunity to fish for a purpose. Registration is open, and sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking to contribute to the hospital’s mission.
The 2025 Prize Boat
This year’s prize boat is a new 2025 Bullet 21SDC powered by a Mercury Marine 250 ProXS. The boat is valued at $99,000.00 this year. Chance to win tickets are being sold through the Wolfson Bass Tournament Page at a suggested donation of $20.00 each. The winning ticket will be pulled on Friday, May 30, 11am. Ticket sales end on Thursday, May 29, at approximately 12pm.
Boat drawing rules can be found here.
For more details, visit the official Wolfson Children’s Bass Tournament page and join the effort to make a difference in the lives of children in need. 🎣💙
Wolfson Children’s Hospital relies on the generosity of members of our community. To support Wolfson Children’s Hospital, please visit wolfsonchildrens.com/give.
About Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville
Nonprofit Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, is a part of Baptist Health, Northeast Florida’s most comprehensive health system serving every stage of life. Wolfson Children’s is the only children’s hospital in Northeast Florida and serves as the pediatric referral center for North Florida, South Georgia and beyond. Staffed 24/7 by pediatric nurses and other healthcare professionals specially trained to work with children, the 281-bed, patient- and family-centered hospital features the latest pediatric medical technology in a welcoming, child-friendly environment. At Wolfson Children’s, nationally recognized pediatric specialists representing nearly every medical and surgical specialty work with pediatricians to provide care for children of all ages with congenital heart conditions, cancer, neurological disorders, diabetes and endocrinology disorders, orthopedic conditions, behavioral health conditions, traumatic injuries, and more. Wolfson Children’s collaborates with pediatric organizations, including Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, the University of Florida College of Medicine — Jacksonville, Emergency Resources Group, and Mayo Clinic Florida. A Magnet™-designated hospital since 2010, Wolfson Children’s Hospital has been named among the U.S. News & World Report 50 Best Children’s Hospitals year after year, and in 2023, was selected as one of only eight children’s hospitals in the country as a Leapfrog Top Children’s Hospital, a recognition of patient quality and safety. For additional information, please visit wolfsonchildrens.com.
