MANSFIELD — Jordan Bryant said he hopes a day of fishing becomes something more meaningful than just a casual outing for local families.
He wants it to spark conversations, build confidence and create a bond that lasts long after Father’s Day.
Fishing poles, pony rides and more will fill North Lake Park on June 20 as Devoted, Ambitious and Dependable (D.A.D.) hosts its second annual Father’s Day community event.
The free Fishing with D.A.D. event runs from noon to 4 p.m. and brings together local organizations, volunteers and families for an afternoon focused on connection, mentorship and outdoor fun.
“The Fishing with D.A.D. event means a lot to me and everyone involved,” said Bryant, founder of Reel Time with Dad. “Our goal is simple – bring families together, get kids outdoors and create memories that last a lifetime.”
This year’s event marks a new partnership between D.A.D. and Reel Time with Dad. Bryant said the collaboration expanded the event’s reach and attracted additional sponsors, donations, volunteers and community support.
Building on last year’s foundation
The event moves to North Lake Park after last year’s inaugural gathering at Paradise Church.
Bryant said organizers look forward to welcoming even more participants while continuing to build on the foundation established during the first event.
One of the biggest additions this year centers on fishing instruction. Volunteers will teach families basic skills such as casting, rigging, fishing safety and conservation.
“Our goal isn’t just to have kids fish for a day — we want to teach them a skill they can enjoy with their families for years to come,” Bryant said.
Organizers welcome all kinds of families and recognize positive role models come in many forms.
“Some children may attend with their dad, while others may come with a grandfather, uncle, stepfather, mentor, older sibling or another positive role model,” he said. “What matters most is spending quality time together and building relationships that can have a lasting impact.”
The first 25 families will receive fishing gear and other items to help continue the experience after the event. Donations include fishing poles, tackle, custom baits, gift cards and other items from local businesses and organizations.
More than a day at the lake
The event will feature fishing instruction, fishing challenges, a Touch-a-Truck with the Mansfield Fire Department, free haircuts, bounce houses, face painting, health and wellness resources, community organizations, food, giveaways and more.
Bryant said the event’s growth and return for a second year demonstrate what can happen when a community rallies around a positive purpose.
He credited local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and families for the event’s continued growth.
“Most importantly, we want people to know this event is truly community-driven,” Bryant said. “It’s local people helping local families.
“We hope families leave not only with fishing gear and prizes, but with memories they’ll carry with them for years to come.
“For me personally, this mission is very important. Some of my best childhood memories were made outdoors with family,” Bryant said.
Our goal is simple – bring families together, get kids outdoors and create memories that last a lifetime.
Jordan Bryant, founder of Reel time with dad
He grew up fishing local waters and spending time outside, experiences he said stayed with him throughout his life.
“If one child leaves with a new memory, one family spends meaningful time together or one kid discovers a lifelong passion for the outdoors, then we’ve accomplished what we set out to do,” Bryant said.
This event gives families an opportunity to slow down, connect and make memories together, he said.
(Photos show promotional images for the Fishing with D.A.D. event along with partners for the event. Photos also show Bryant’s family fishing. Provided by Jordan Bryant.)
