The YDCCF Tournament Series began in 2023 and has raised over $300,000 to date for local grassroots projects in the Bahamas.
The Second Annual McClean’s Town Invitational ran in October in conjunction with YDCCF Premier Lodge Partner East End Lodge. 14 anglers arrived on Grand Bahama Island to start their week celebrating with the community at the 53rd annual McClean’s Town Conch Cracking Festival.
A practice day followed by 4 beautiful days of Fall fishing off the East End brought over 160 bonefish to hand, with the largest taping out over 26”. Many large permit were chased and hooked, along with triggerfish, snapper and cuda.
The real winners of this event are the residents of McClean’s Town: the tournament brought in over $75,000 in fundraising to help continue the process of rebuilding homes in this historic settlement damaged by Hurricane Dorian in 2019. To date, 4 structures have been built, with countless others receiving material support for repairs. Plans are underway for additional new homes.
YDCCF is grateful for the amazing amount of support from donors and sponsors for the Tournament Series, including Hatch Outdoors, Thomas & Thomas, YETI, Orvis, Simms, R.L. Winston, Bauer Reels, Patagonia, Umpqua, Scientific Anglers, Skwala, MFC, Cling, Scott Fly Rods, Abel Reels, Grundens and High Camp Flasks.
We also thank Robert Neher and Cecil and Shaerisa Leathen at East End Lodge for their unending support and partnership in this endeavor. They’re leading the way in the effort to rebuild McClean’s Town and we’re humbled by their generosity.
The McClean’s Town Invitational will return in October of 2026, please reach out if you’re interested in joining us to help give back!
