Randy Moss Goes Fishing In The First Ever Straight Bass Classic

In July 2021, Catch Co. and Randy Moss partnered to honor the late Sid Hartman by putting together a charitable bass fishing tournament. A renowned Minnesota journalist, Sid Hartman, worked for over half a century in media and broadcasting throughout the twin cities covering the local sports scene with a perspective and voice unlike anyone else. Sid’s profound legacy and impact resonated with the players, readers, and listeners he came in contact with throughout the years. A true go-getter and Minnesotan to heart, Sid wrote his last column on his final day of life, at 100 years old.

The Randy Effect

Randy drawing smiles and cracking jokes during a post-tournament breakdown with the local press.

Drafted by the Vikings in 1998, Randy Moss began his hall of fame career in Minnesota, a rich state in sports and outdoor culture. Fittingly, Randy put together a fishing tournament on Lake Minnetonka with current and previous athletes from Minnesota to honor their late friend.

Robert Smith and his son wrangling in what looks to be a keeper bass.

A Star Studded Affair

Thanks to Randy’s extensive contact list, former and current sports legends like Daunte Culpepper, Joe Mauer, Matt Dumba, Robert Smith, Scott Studwell, Pete Bericich, Al Newman, John Thomas and more showed up to honor Sid while hoping to wrangle in a few bass.

The Catco Co. stepped in by supporting the set-up and break down, setting the tournament rules, and working with a network of local anglers to help serve as guides for the day. After a brief rain delay, groups of 2-3 set off onto Lake Minnetonka, where they competed for roughly 6 hours collectively, trying to catch their five biggest largemouth or smallmouth bass.

Former Minnesota Viking, Jake Reed prepares for takeoff with MTB Hatguy and their guide Watt Waldron.

Fishing For A Cause

The day’s tournament helped raise funds and awareness for dyrk1a. This rare disease impacts individuals and families, including Sid’s grandson, who attended and fished with his father and local radio personality Chad Hartman.

Three teams were at the top of the leader board after the final fish was weighed and the last tallies were added. But regardless of outcomes, every participant collectively helped raise money for a great cause while honoring a Minnesota legend.

Chad Hartman and his son enjoying a post-tournament feast.

Get Involved

To learn more about how you can get involved, go to dyrk1a.org or purchase the limited edition ‘’Straight Bass Homie’’ performance long sleeve or classic cotton t-shirt. All proceeds from shirt sales will be donated directly to help fight dyrk1a in honor of the Hartman family.

Randy Moss Performance Long Sleeve

Straight Bass Classic T-Shirthttps://twitter.com/RandyMoss/status/1317935099627905026?