Support those who defend our country at the annual Holes 4 Heroes event. Featuring ice, fishing and fun—this event is a memorable one for the entire family.
Founder of Fishing for Life, Tom Goodrich, felt there was a need for a program catering to military personnel. A veteran himself, he designed 16 military events that occur throughout the year; Holes 4 Heroes is one of his creations, which started in 2009. In 2016, the program made its successful debut on White Bear Lake.
Holes 4 Heroes is held in a spot where there’s a high and diverse concentration of fish, ensuring every patron has ample opportunity to catch something. “You really catch everything,” Goodrich says. The event also provides equipment, fish houses and raffle prizes.
An important characteristic of this event is the Hole of Honor, a special area where military families can speak to their significant service member for 20 minutes while they fish, via a large television screen. This special moment is held beneath a warming tent and consists of about seven holes for the family to fish out of.
“It’s as if they’re all in the fish house together,” Goodrich says. “Hopefully, the kids are catching fish.”
Goodrich says the Hole of Honor typically serves around 20 families for the duration of the event. Coordination with the military member abroad occurs prior to the event, ensuring the family will have the opportunity to spend this time together.
And, half of the entry admission proceeds go to military staff and their families. “It’s for all things military,” says Goodrich.
IF YOU GO
DATES January 27 at Medicine Lake, February 3 at White Bear Lake
COST $10 per person in advance. $15 per person day of. Military personnel and immediate families free admission.
INFORMATION For volunteer and sponsor information, contact 612.987.5466 or visit the website here.
