United Way Southwest Louisiana and SWLA Veterans Association Host 3rd Annual Reelin’ for Warriors Fishing Rodeo to Support Local Veterans

United Way Southwest Louisiana and the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Association are proud to announce the return of the Reelin’ for Warriors Fishing Rodeo, now in its third year. This annual community event combines a love of fishing with a service mission, raising critical funds to support Southwest Louisiana veterans needing home repairs and essential household assistance.

The Reelin’ for Warriors Fishing Rodeo will occur Saturday, October 4 at Prien Lake Park in Lake Charles. Anglers of all ages and skill levels are invited to cast a line for a cause in a weekend filled with fishing, family fun, and community pride—all in honor of the men and women who have served our nation.

This year’s rodeo features multiple divisions to ensure everyone can take part:

• Youth Division – inspiring the next generation of anglers
• Kayak Division – for those who prefer casting from the water’s edge in their own paddle craft
• Shore Fishing Division – perfect for families and casual anglers
• Charter Group Division – guided offshore opportunities with local captains
• Two-Man Team Division – pairs competing together for big catches and bragging rights

In addition to fishing, participants and community members will have a chance to win a Hobie Lynx Mirage Kayak, generously donated to support the cause. Raffle tickets are only $20 each, making it an affordable way for anyone to get involved. Tickets can be purchased online at unitedwayswla.org/fishingrodeo, by texting “KAYAK” to 91999 or in person at the rodeo. All proceeds from the raffle go directly toward helping veterans with critical home repairs and accessibility improvements. The winner will be drawn at Reelin’ for Warriors and the winner does not have to be present at the event.

“Many of our local veterans face challenges maintaining safe and accessible homes,” said [insert spokesperson name and title, e.g., Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana]. “Through Reelin’ for Warriors, we’re able to provide life-changing support such as roof repairs, wheelchair ramps, and other essential improvements that allow veterans to live with dignity and independence.”

Proceeds from the rodeo and raffle directly benefit veterans in need, ensuring that those who once served our country receive the support they deserve here at home.

“This event is more than just a fishing tournament—it’s a way for the community to come together, show gratitude, and make a tangible difference in the lives of our veterans,” said [insert spokesperson name from SWLA Veterans Association]. “Every cast, every entry, every sponsorship helps a veteran right here in Southwest Louisiana.”

The weekend will also feature weigh-ins, lunch provided by GRACE and activities for the whole family. Prizes will be awarded across all divisions, and veterans will be honored throughout the event.

Registration is now open at unitedwayswla.org/fishingrodeo. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations wanting to show their support.

For more information, visit unitedwayswla.org/fishingrodeo.