Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic
Cystic fibrosis walleye classic
- Fishing For A Cure
In October 2001, Steve and Julie Ballou hosted the first ever Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic on beautiful Cass Lake, Minnesota. This event was created to honor the life of their son, Nathan, who lost his battle at the age of seventeen due to complications of cystic fibrosis while at the same time, continuing the fight for a cure for CF for their daughter, Ashley, who continues to live with CF today. In 2001, 22 boats took to Cass Lake to take part in the first Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic. Since then, the Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic has grown into something incredibly special - a meaningful event rooted in a passion for not only fishing but fighting CF. Most of all, it is not just a community that has come together to to support all those affected by cystic fibrosis, but it's become a family of fighters.
The Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic begins every year on Friday night with a memorable banquet that includes delicious food, a live and silent auction with amazing one-of-a-kind items, and rules meeting for the following day's fishing tournament. The banquet invites the community to attend such a memorable night while welcoming teams fishing in the tournament. The morning excitement begins with several flights of boats departing from the harbor for a day of not just fishing, but fishing for a cause so near and dear to our hearts. Graciously, Stony Point Resort on Cass Lake was the new launch site and weigh-in site beginning in 2018 and continues to be the perfect home for the Annual Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic. Each person that has taken part in this memorable weekend over the years and those who continue to make it an annual event have been an important part in helping us fish for a cure. It is one we will continue to do together until a cure is found for CF.
Over the years, $200,000 has been raised to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and its mission. We are so thankful for the endless support of the community and all those who contribute to the success of this event.
Julie & Steve Ballou with their daughter, Ashley.
- Join Us
Want to help make a difference in the lives of those with CF and be a part of this memorable event? Help us continue to make a difference and join us this year at the 23rd Annual Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic! Click the links below for more information:
Thanks to Our generous sponsors.
Proceeds raised by the Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Donations made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation go towards the development of life-saving drugs and therapies to treat CF while ultimately seeking a cure.