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Root Memorial Fishing Tournament offers catch, photo and release for a critical cause

2 min read

 

Anglers are being encouraged to sign up now for the 8th Annual David Lee Root, Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament and catch, photo and release for a very good cause.

On July 4, 2001 at the age of 18, David Lee Root, Jr. was fatally injured in an automobile accident in St. James City. David was the son of Dave and Debbie Root that own and operate D&D Matlacha Bait & Tackle on Matlacha. In memory of their lost son, the tournament is held annually.

For several years, fishermen from the Lee County area have come to fish the event and show their support.

Proceeds from this angling event benefit the Trauma Center at Lee Memorial Hospital, which is credited with helping save the Root’s other son, Dustin.

Lee Memorial Hospital on Cleveland Avenue has the only certified Level II Trauma Center between Tampa and Miami. Full-time trauma surgeons are available 24-hours a day to meet the needs of our community involved in vehicle accidents or other serious mishaps. Lee Memorial Health System continues to struggle to provide funding for the vital Trauma program without taxing authority. 

 

The entry fee is $50 per angler. There is no minimum number of anglers required per boat allowing for fishing by kayak or from the famous Matlacha fishing bridge.

 

Enjoy more than big fish… there’s a barbeque, too. The barbeque follows the photo “weigh in,” along with prizes, a 50/50 and chance drawings.

 

Not fishing, but want to enjoy the barbeque and help support the Trauma Center? Tickets for the barbeque may be purchased at $8/adult and $5 for children 12 and under.

 

All proceeds will benefit the Trauma Center at Lee Memorial Hospital to aid with the treatment of the severely injured and to provide them the best chance for recovery.

 

For more information or to register today, call Dave and Debbie at 239-282-9122 or go to www.davidleerootmemorial.com .