Last year changed everything.
Last year changed everything.
In 2025, I committed to fishing the Dick Hiley Bass Classic to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with Dane Vocelka — and what started as just another tournament quickly became something much bigger.
This event isn’t about trophies, checks, or points. It’s about making a real difference. And in 2026, we’re coming back with an even bigger goal.
What Makes This Tournament Different
I fish a lot of bass tournaments every year, but the Dick Hiley Bass Classic stands apart from all of them.
It’s not just the fishing — it’s the purpose.
The entire event is built around raising money for St. Jude and supporting their mission to fight childhood cancer. And when you’re surrounded by anglers, families, and a community united around that cause, it hits differently.
Last year, over 100 boats participated — anglers from Minnesota and across the country — all coming together for something bigger than competition.
And the impact is massive. The tournament raised over $1.1 million in a single event. That makes it one of the largest St. Jude fishing fundraisers anywhere.
Our First Year Was Incredible — and Humbling
When Dane and I committed to fishing the event last year, we honestly didn’t know what to expect. Fundraising felt intimidating. We weren’t sure how much we would realistically raise.
Our original goal was simply to hit the $5,000 minimum required to participate. But thanks to this incredible community, we raised: $12,000 in just 6 weeks.
That blew away our expectations. It showed us the power of this fishing community when we rally behind something meaningful.
Why This Cause Matters
St. Jude is doing life-saving work for children battling cancer and life-threatening diseases. What makes their mission even more powerful:
- Families never receive a bill for treatment
- They cover travel, housing, and food
- They focus entirely on saving children’s lives
This tournament directly supports that mission. And being part of that effort is something I’m incredibly proud of.
Our Goal for 2026: $25,000
This year, we’re aiming higher. Our goal is to raise: $25,000 for St. Jude in 2026
It’s ambitious — but after seeing what this community did last year, I know it’s possible. We’re also planning more ways to give back and involve the community.
How You Can Help Support the Cause
There are multiple ways you can get involved and make a difference.
1. Donate Directly
Every donation helps — no matter the amount.
Even $10 makes an impact. All donations are:
- Tax deductible
- Transparent
- Directly supporting St. Jude
As a bonus, every $10 donation enters you into giveaways including fishing gift cards, likely to Omnia Fishing.
2. Limited Edition Fundraiser Merch
We’re releasing exclusive, limited-run merch tied directly to this fundraiser.
These drops will only be available for a short time — and every purchase helps support St. Jude. Buy February SHIRTS HERE!
3. Special Giveaways and Fundraiser Events
We’ll also be doing:
- Gift card giveaways
- Tattoo session giveaways (from Dane)
- Limited auctions
- Live stream fundraising events
There will be multiple opportunities to participate and support throughout the year.
Even If You Can’t Donate, You Can Still Help
Support doesn’t always have to be financial. You can help by:
- Sharing the video
- Sharing the fundraiser link
- Commenting and engaging
- Spreading the word
Every share helps expand the reach and impact.
This Is Bigger Than Fishing
Fishing has given me incredible opportunities, friendships, and experiences. Being able to use this platform to support something as important as St. Jude makes it even more meaningful.
Last year was just the beginning. In 2026, we’re coming back stronger — and with your help, we can make an even bigger impact. Thank you for being part of this journey.
— Rich Lindgren aka HellaBass
Watch the Full Video and Learn More
You can watch the full video and learn how to support here:




















