BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation are now accepting nominations for the annual C.A.S.T. for Kids B.A.S.S. Humanitarian Award, recognizing the meaningful work being done by B.A.S.S. members to serve others in their communities.
The award honors a B.A.S.S. member who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to helping fragile populations such as children with special needs, veterans, abuse survivors or others who need extra support and care.
“Partnering with the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation to recognize the selfless work of our members is something we value greatly at B.A.S.S. This award highlights how many anglers in our community use their passion for fishing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
The 2025 Humanitarian Award winner, Jimmy Bennett, was recognized for his work through the JMB Fishing Foundation, which provides outdoor adventures for disabled and disadvantaged youth.
“Jimmy Bennett, the 2025 winner of the Humanitarian Award, was a great addition to the list of outstanding individuals who’ve won this award,” said Jay Yelas, Executive Director of the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation and former Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro. “Jimmy’s JMB Fishing Foundation makes a positive difference in the lives of many children that are disabled or disadvantaged. His outdoor adventures with youth change lives for the better.”
To be considered for the award, a B.A.S.S. member must be nominated by Feb. 20. Any member doing exemplary community service will be considered. The nomination form can be found at Bassmaster.com/award.
Judges from both B.A.S.S. and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will review all nominations and verify the humanitarian work of the honoree. While C.A.S.T. for Kids focuses on providing fishing opportunities for children with special needs, nominations are open to B.A.S.S. members doing any form of good work to help those in need.
The 2026 award recipient will be honored during the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour festivities in Knoxville, Tenn., where the Classic will be contested on the Tennessee River March 13-15.
“The sport of bass fishing is full of people with big hearts who enjoy serving others; we see it all the time at C.A.S.T. for Kids events,” Yelas said. “This award exists to recognize and show appreciation to those in the B.A.S.S. family who serve their community well.”
