09 Jun WRM Announces Record Breaking 12th Annual Fishin’ for the Mission Tournament
Reeling in Recovery: Wyoming Rescue Mission Announces Record Breaking 12th Annual Fishin’ for the Mission Tournament
CASPER, WY — Wyoming Rescue Mission’s 12th Annual Fishin’ for the Mission was a heartfelt celebration of lives transformed, stories shared, and hope restored. Preliminary estimates show the event raised $128,417.50, all going directly to support the Wyoming Rescue Mission’s programs of providing hot meals, safe shelter, counseling, case management, recovery programs, and care.
The event began on June 4, 2025, with the Guide Meet & Greet Dinner at The M —a gathering where mission partners, guides, and guests came together to connect over stories of redemption and resilience. Renowned sculptor Chris Navarro introduced a bronze sculpture he made exclusively for the Wyoming Rescue Mission. Titled “Hanging On,” the bronze features a bear cub clinging to a tree– a powerful reminder that even in the hardest times, holding on can lead you to higher ground. The bronze was sold in a live auction, with all proceeds benefiting the Wyoming Rescue Mission.
Attendees were moved by the video testimony of Rusty and Sterling, a father and son who found themselves on the streets and living in a car after Rusty’s addiction cost him his job. In search of a hot meal, they came to Wyoming Rescue Mission, and then they asked for a bed – where their journey toward healing began. Their story was a powerful reminder of the Mission’s impact. Following the video, a mother shared a personal story about her son’s struggle with addiction. After years of setbacks, he entered the Discipleship Recovery Program, where he found faith, sobriety, and began a new, thriving life.
As the sun rose on Wednesday, June 5, anglers and guides gathered for a full day on the water at Red Butte Ranch. Once the boats launched, teams spent the day fishing on the river. As anglers returned for lunch and awards, guests in the Discipleship Recovery Program, Alice and Darian, shared their testimonials. Darian spoke of his past battles with addiction and incarceration, recounting how turning himself in led to freedom and purpose through Wyoming Rescue Mission. “The Discipleship Recovery Program has changed my life. I am not the same person I used to be,” said Darian. Alice spoke of escaping destructive influences and rediscovering her identity and strength through faith and WRM’s support.
After testimonials, fishing awards were announced, celebrating the tournament’s top anglers. First place went to Merritt and Charlie Benson, followed by Jim Baragar and Corey Handeland in second, and Blake and Shane Gamble in third. Special awards added some fun to the event, with Ryan Klinger from Hilltop Bank catching the Biggest Sucker, and John Hunzicker reeling in the Smallest Fish. A heartfelt thank-you goes to the winners of the Calcutta — Shane Harkins (1st Place), Jim Baragar (2nd Place), and Blake Gamble (3rd Place)— for generously donating some (or all) of their proceeds back to further the work of Wyoming Rescue Mission.
Special thanks to our sponsors: Jonah Bank of Wyoming, Takkion, Navarro Gallery, Casper Orthopedics, MPI Warehouse, Live Inspired, and other contributors for making this event successful. Looking forward, the 13th annual Fishin’ for the Mission will be held June 3 and 4, 2026. Early bird registration is available until December 31, 2026, at wyomission.org. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available, providing an exceptional chance to enhance your business’s visibility while supporting life transformation.