Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The fall fishing community will reel in for a purpose at Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores this weekend. Organizers say the two-day tournament welcomes anglers of all skill levels. Veterans and first responders will fish at no cost. Other participants will pay a modest entry fee to compete for cash prizes. The event pairs friendly competition with a food pantry drive to help local families.

The tournament runs on Saturday and Sunday, October 25–26, at Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores, 240 E. 24th Ave. Fishing begins at 5 a.m. on Saturday, giving early risers a full day on the water or shoreline. The weigh station will close at 4 p.m. on Sunday. A one-hour weigh-in party is scheduled from 3 to 4 p.m. on Sunday at Tacky Jacks.

The entry fee is $30 for most anglers, while veterans and first responders fish for free. Eligible participants include boat, kayak, and land-based fishermen. Organizers will award $500 in total cash prizes to the top three slot redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Door prizes and raffles will add more ways to win during the Sunday’s weigh-in.

The weigh-in party at Tacky Jacks will include food, drinks, raffles, door prizes, and awards. Families and supporters are welcome to attend the afternoon wrap-up. Anglers are encouraged to arrive in time to check in before the weigh station closes. Tournament staff recommend planning for parking near Gulf Place and 24th Avenue if lots fill quickly.

A community cause anchors the event’s mission. Anglers are encouraged to donate their catches to Morgan’s Chapel UMC Food Pantry. Each donated fish earns more prize chances, giving participants an extra incentive to give back. Donated fillets will help stock meals for neighbors in need across Bon Secour and nearby communities.

Last year showed how much a fishing day can help. According to organizers, sixty-three anglers donated 225 pounds of fish. That catch helped feed seventy-two local families in Bon Secour. Event leaders hope to meet or exceed those totals with this fall’s turnout and donations.

Prospective anglers can find details and registration information online. For more information, visit fishingchaos.com, email reelzgood@gmail.com, or call 251-423-5964. Organizers recommend early sign up to streamline Saturday morning check-in. Participants should review rules on eligible slot sizes and species before lines go in.

The weekend forecast may guide tactics for inshore species. Kayak and land-based anglers often favor sunrise sessions for trout around docks. Boaters may target slot redfish near grass lines on outgoing tides. Flounder fans commonly work current edges and sandy troughs by bridges and passes.

Weigh-in volunteers will direct traffic and coolers during the 3 to 4 p.m. window. Fillet stations will be set up to prepare donated fish for the pantry. Raffle drawings and awards will follow after the scales close. Attendees should keep their weigh tickets for prize eligibility.

Tournament staff remind anglers to practice safe boating and to wear life jackets. Shoreline anglers should mind surf conditions and pier etiquette. Coolers with ice are recommended to maintain fish quality for donation. Respecting size limits ensures eligible entries at the scales.