CANTON, Ill. – Fishing’s Marathon Man, Jeff Kolodzinski, is back for the annual event that raises much-needed funds for the Fishing For Life Next Gen Program, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on serving children of military families — especially those families that have lost a loved one during active military service — and single-parent households.
The Marathon Man event is a fishing endurance test in which Kolo (as his friends call him) attempts to break his own world record for number of fish caught in 24 hours. Last year he exceeded his goal of 2,977 (the number of lives lost on 9/11) and set a new world standard with 3,186.
This year, the seemingly unattainable goal is 4,000 fish in 24 hours, nearly double the total Kolo had in 2010 when he first established the world record.
The numbers are important for a couple of reasons. First, we should never forget the lives lost on 9/11. Second, some generous individuals and companies will base their tax-deductible donation on the number of fish Kolo catches — a dollar, a quarter, a dime or even a penny per fish will help.
How will he do it?
“I fish the same way most new anglers do — right from the bank, using the same kind of tackle. I’ll have a simple pole, a float and live bait. I want to show anglers — especially new anglers — that you can catch a ton of fish on simple and affordable tackle. The tackle I’ll use costs under $25, so anyone can do this.”
Why does he do it?
“I’ve always had a special place in my heart for the military,” he says, “even though I’ve never formally served. This is my way to materially support those who are serving us.
“I also believe that fishing heals and brings people together and closer to nature. If I can show some people what fishing has to offer, and they follow up and get involved, we all benefit.”
Where will he do it?
Giant Goose Ranch is a family-focused campground with 45 lakes for fishing, along with a host of other outdoor activities. The owners and operators at Giant Goose Ranch have been perennial supporters of Marathon Man in a great many ways, including providing the venue and backdrop for fishing’s greatest feel-good event. Visit www.giantgooseranch.com for more information.
How can you get involved?
Marathon Man will take place from 10 a.m. on Friday, September 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 10. The event will be livestreamed at marathonmanfishing.com. Visit the site to make a donation, offer support and follow Kolodzinski’s progress.
A special thanks to the supporters of Marathon Man: AFTCO, Black Rifle Coffee, Engel Coolers, Humminbird, Giant Goose Ranch, Fishing Tackle Retailer, Lindy/Thill, Minn Kota, Mr. Crappie, St. Croix Rods, Sufix, VMC, Zebco … and hopefully you.
