PEARL — Anglers and community members are invited to gather April 18 at the Ross Barnett Reservoir for a day of fishing and fundraising aimed at supporting Purple Heart recipients.
The Warrior Bonfire Crappie Tournament is scheduled to begin with lines in at 6:30 a.m., with participants launching from most public ramps around the reservoir. Registration closes at 7:30 a.m., and fishing will continue until 2 p.m., followed by a 3:30 p.m. weigh-in at Bass Pro Shops.
Organizers say proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Warrior Bonfire Program, a nonprofit that provides outdoor retreats and long-term support for post-9/11 Purple Heart recipients.
The event will feature a five-fish limit per boat, with prizes awarded to the top three finishers. First place will receive a $300 gift card and trophy, followed by $200 and $100 gift cards for second and third place, respectively. An optional “Big Fish Pot” will also be available, with a payout for the largest catch.
Beyond the competition, the event is designed as a community gathering to honor veterans and raise awareness of the program’s mission. The Warrior Bonfire Program focuses on activity-based, stress-free experiences that promote camaraderie and healing for service members wounded in combat.
Those who do not fish can still participate through a raffle open nationwide. Tickets are $20 each or six for $100, with prizes including Bass Pro Shops gift cards ranging from $100 to $500 and nearly two dozen additional giveaways. Winners will be announced during the weigh-in, and participants do not need to be present to win.
See the Warrior Bonfire Program on Amazon Prime
Event organizers said attendees can expect live updates throughout the day, an emcee, and appearances from local sponsors and the Mississippi Army National Guard. Food will also be available at the weigh-in, with Penn’s Fish House food truck serving fish and chicken.
Fishing is not permitted to launch from Madison Landing or Goshen Springs, but all other public ramps at the reservoir are open for the tournament.
Organizers said the event aims to combine outdoor recreation with a meaningful cause, emphasizing that “no warrior heals alone.”
