JACKSONVILLE BEACH – The King Buster Fishing Tournament attracts anglers from all over, but it’s about more than just fishing.

Last week, 141 boats launched from Marine Max at Jacksonville Beach Marine, and all eyes focused on hooking prized kingfish. Then, 190 children participated in the junior tournament, with 98 taking home a prize for catching a fish.

Children caught lots of fish, but King Buster is also about focusing on family, supporting a charitable cause, “Dreams Come True.”

“This year was all about the kids. It’s heartwarming to see families getting on the water together,” said Orange Park’s Don Dingman, host of the popular fishing television show “Hook the Future” and longtime King Buster Fishing Tournament director.

Dingman’s TV show takes children fishing worldwide, instills the value of environmental stewardship, and allows them to become the prime movers of the action, from captaining the boat to landing fish as big as they are. He said he focuses on “the kids,” whether through his tournament, on the show or in life.

The junior tournament is called the “Brian Dingman Memorial Junior Angler Tournament” in honor of Dingman’s late son, who died 19 years ago. It aims to provide children with an unforgettable fishing experience.

In addition to the thrill of competition, the young anglers won many prizes, including fishing gear, a boat (Carolina Skiff 16JLS), a motor (75 horsepower Suzuki) and a trailer.

King Buster teams up with Dreams Come True to put on the tournament, the First Coast’s only locally-based dream-granting organization dedicated to bringing hope and joy to children battling life-threatening illnesses.

“We make sure the kids from Dreams Come True don’t miss out on the fishing experience. These children, facing significant challenges, get to enjoy a day on a nice, big center console boat, catching big fish and creating cherished memories,” he said.

The tournament’s collaboration with Dreams Come True goes beyond providing a remarkable fishing experience. Dingman and his team donate any remaining funds from the tournament to the nonprofit organization. The generosity ensures that Dreams Come True can continue fulfilling dreams for children with needs.

The tournament’s roots in Clay County also run deep. Several local anglers participated and contributed to the event’s success. Dingman was born and reared in Clay, and his children attended Orange Park High.

“This event holds a special place in my heart, and it’s fantastic to see so many Clay County anglers involved,” he said.

Jacqui Grant and her husband, Steve, are from the county and play vital roles in organizing the tournament annually. Volunteer Josh Hargis helped provide crucial assistance for King Buster.

Steve, employed with Hi-Liner Fishing Gear and Tackle in Green Cove Springs, said his company had been a sponsor since he began working there. He and Jacqui’s son, Tyler, also landed a 23-pound kingfish during the youth tournament.

“He was ecstatic,” Grant said.

The number or size of fish or prizes awarded does not solely measure the success of King Buster. It is instead a celebration of community, compassion and joy that brings together children and families. Through the tournament’s partnership with Dreams Come True, organizers continue to touch the young lives facing challenging circumstances, ensuring that dreams come true for brave children.

“It’s a lot more than fishing. When you’re fishing with kids, you’re not talking about chores or homework or my job. Are you doing the same thing together? How often does that happen nowadays?” Dingman said.