Kids Fishing Fun in Palmetto: 9th Annual “On The Wall” Tournament Returns May 16, 2026
One of the Suncoast’s most heartwarming and family-friendly traditions is back this spring. The 9th Annual Children’s “On The Wall” Fishing Tournament will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the beautiful Bradenton Yacht Club, giving kids the chance to fish, compete, and make unforgettable memories along the waterfront.
Hosted by the Crosthwait Memorial Fishing Tournament, this popular event is designed specifically for young anglers ages 4 to 13. It encourages children to get outdoors, learn fishing skills, and enjoy a fun, safe, and supportive environment.
Event Details
- Location: 4307 13th Street West, Palmetto, FL
- Check-In: 8:15 AM to 8:45 AM
- Fishing Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Awards and Lunch: Immediately following fishing
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Kids will fish “on the wall,” meaning along the seawall and dock area, which makes it a great setup for both beginners and more experienced young anglers.
Registration and What’s Included
The entry fee is $20 per child and $15 per sibling.
Each registered participant receives:
- A goodie bucket
- Lunch, generously sponsored by Popi’s Place
- Eligibility for prizes and awards, sponsored by Blooming’s Landscape & Turf
There is also an early registration bonus. The first 75 registered anglers will receive a free commemorative Crosthwait t-shirt, thanks to sponsors HOPE and McGuire Electric.
What to Bring, and What Not to Bring
- Bring: Your child’s fishing rod and tackle
- Bring: Sunscreen, hats, and water
- Bring: Lots of enthusiasm
- Do not bring: Bait or artificial lures
Bait will be provided by the event organizers.
How to Register
Participants must complete both steps to be officially registered.
- Fill out the registration form
- Submit payment via PayPal
- Email completed forms to CrosthwaitKidsTournament@yahoo.com
Spots are limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.
More Than Just Fishing
The Children’s “On The Wall” Tournament is about more than catching fish. It helps build confidence, teaches patience, and creates lifelong memories. Events like this play a real role in introducing kids to Florida’s coastal lifestyle while promoting conservation, sportsmanship, and family bonding.
Held in scenic Palmetto along the Manatee River, the setting gives families a perfect backdrop for a day of sunshine, smiles, and maybe even a few big catches.
The Bradenton Yacht Club has hosted other community-minded waterfront events too, including a past reef and beach cleanup event, and the broader region has long supported youth-focused outdoor fun like the Manatee PAL fishing tournament.
Why This Event Matters on the Suncoast
As snowbirds head north and locals reclaim the region, events like this highlight the best of Suncoast living: outdoor recreation, community spirit, and family-focused fun. With strong local sponsorship and growing popularity, this tournament continues to stand out as a meaningful annual tradition in Manatee County.
And for families looking to keep the outdoor momentum going, there are always more local adventures waiting around the corner, including spots like these family-friendly Florida favorites.