“Awesome program that helped my daughter realize what she could do, helped us as parents see what she could do, helped the volunteers see what she could do, helped those watching see what she could do. Profound success.”
This is a C.A.S.T. for Kids event designed to provide children with disabilities, ages 5 – 17, the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience through the sport of fishing. Take to the water with C.A.S.T. for an unforgettable morning of fishing and boating!
Event Location
Los Vaqueros Marina
Livermore, California (map)
Event Contacts
Event Coordinator
Justin Fivella
925-688-8307
Email
Video From A Memorable C.A.S.T. for Kids Moment
Photos From This Event
Thanks To Our Event Sponsors
Contra Costa Water District, Workday anglers Club, Lews, Flambeau
Read About Past Events
Mild weather, still waters and great fishing at the Los Vaqueros Marina welcomed 21 students with special needs and their families to the District’s 9th annual Catch a Special Thrill Fishing Day (C.A.S.T) this past Saturday for a day of fishing and friendship.
In total, more than 80 people enjoyed the wonderful event that was sponsored by a local fishing club, the Angry Anglers, along with The Lesher Foundation, Project Junk, and others. As they’ve done in previous years, the Angry Anglers were not only the main sponsor and the largest body of help with over 15 volunteers, but they also provided lunch for all attendees. Speaking of lending a helping hand, this year marked a new high with over 40 volunteers, predominantly fishing experts and families in the District’s service area who came out and showed support for the participants and their families.
But C.A.S.T. is more than just good food and generous volunteers, it’s about camaraderie and casting a line.
“We absolutely love the event, we get to spend time with awesome kids and teach them about something we love; and honestly, there’s nothing better than seeing these kids having fun and enjoying the experience,” Joe Perez, founder of the Angry Anglers, said.
Each student and their family members were accompanied by an experienced angler who took them boat- or shore-fishing, and this year, nearly all students had the excitement of reeling one in, as LVRC planted 3,000 pounds of trout at the marina several days prior—one student managed to catch three strippers and another, a 6-pound catfish.
Along with the Anglers, additional experienced fisherman volunteered for the day, as did several District employees, including Jim Freschi and Donella Smigiel-Amdahl. We’d also like to thank Donella and the Tri Valley Quarter Midgets Association, a local auto racing club for their generous donations to next year’s C.A.S.T event.
If you’re interested in volunteering at next year’s event, please email [email protected].