Santa Claus Bass Tournament Raises $15K For Charity, Sets Record

MOORESVILLE, NC — It's not every day boats filled with nearly 300 anglers dressed as Santa Claus descend upon Lake Norman, setting a record in the process. Saturday, that's exactly what happened in Mooresville in an event that raised an estimated $15,000 in new toy donations for Toys for Tots.

The Ugly Stik World's Largest Santa Claus Bass Tournament was held Dec. 12 at Queen's Landing on River Highway in Mooresville.

"‘Twas 13 days until Christmas, on Lake Norman they met, hundreds of Santas with a world record to set," organizers said. "They rode upon boats instead of old sleds while visions of big bass danced in their heads."

The one-day fishing event sponsored by fishing rod manufacturer Ugly Stik drew out 298 anglers dressed as Santa, and in the process set a new world record for "largest fishing tournament contested by anglers dressed as Santa Claus," organizers said.

Event organizers said participants were kept socially distanced and provided nack gaiters designed to look like Santa's beard.

“This year especially, we felt people needed an event like this one. It’s hard to see so many Santas in one place and have a bad time,” Ugly Stik Vice President of Marketing Jon Schlosser said in a statement. “We’re excited by the turnout and proud to own the world record but we’re even more excited to help bring Christmas to so many kids who might not otherwise have one this year.”

SEE ALSO:

• Toy Drive Underway At FeedNC: How To Donate
• Huntersville Girl Sells Homemade Ornaments To Help Food Bank
  
• Holiday Hams Needed In Mooresville: How To Donate