YDCCF started the Bahamas Tournament Series in 2023 with the Big Yard Classic on Andros, where we have raised over $100,000 for the Mangrove Cay Community Park. Earlier this month, we hosted the inaugural McClean's Town Invitational with Premier Lodge Partner East End Lodge on Grand Bahama.
The East End of Grand Bahama and Northern Abaco were completely destroyed by Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the work to rebuild these historic settlements continues today. There are currently only about 40 people residing in McClean's Town, which historically has supported over 150 people. The primary issue is housing - most people lost everything, and have nothing to return home to. Working with Robert Neher at East End Lodge, we have been supporting the McClean's Town Rebuilding Fund, which seeks to help residents repair or replace what was lost, enabling them to return home. Two homes have been completely rebuilt so far, with plans for four more in the next couple years. YDCCF has provided over $60,000 in funding so far, and this new tournament set an ambitious goal of doubling that amount, seeking to raise an additional $60,000.
14 anglers started their week by attending McClean's Town's biggest annual party - the Conch Cracking Festival. The event draws people from all over the country to join in the festivities, competitions and the chance to enjoy some amazing local food and drink. We followed that up with a practice day of fishing before diving into four days of competition. As often happens on saltwater trips, we had both good days and challenging weather, but in the end, dozens of bonefish were brought to hand, the largest measuring out at 27", along with baby tarpon, cubera and mangrove snapper, triggerfish and barracuda.
More importantly, between the tournament auction event and a $25,000 Match Challenge that YDCCF put forward to the guests in attendance and online, we collectively raised over $80,000 for the McClean's Town Rebuilding Fund.
It was an amazing week and we are grateful for all our participants and sponsors, including Patagonia, Simms, Orvis, Scientific Anglers, Hatch Outdoors, MFC, Thomas & Thomas, Bajio and Skwala.
The second annual McClean's Town Invitational will take place in October 2025, stay tuned for dates!
