Reelin’ for Research began with one family, one fight, and one goal: to help land a cure for childhood cancer.

In 2005, Tony Montana lost his battle with cancer, leaving behind a son and a community determined to continue his fight. Tony’s friends and family decided to honor him the best way they knew how: by combining their love of fishing with their desire to make a difference.

What started as a small tribute has grown into one of the nation’s top charity sportfishing events. Each year, more than 80 boats and hundreds of anglers take to the water with a shared purpose: to raise money for childhood cancer research and treatment. Together, we’ve raised more than $9.3 million and counting.

Reelin’ for Research is still powered by Tony’s spirit, his son’s legacy, and the belief that every child deserves a fighting chance.

A black background with a horizontal line running across the center. The line has a small orange hook in the middle, with the text 'Hook' above it and arrows pointing to the hook from both sides. The text is in white.

OUR STORY

A group of eight young people, four men and four women, posing together indoors. They are all wearing matching navy blue polo shirts with logos. The setting features a brick wall, windows with wooden blinds, and hardwood floors, suggesting a casual or social gathering.

OUR HISTORY

Tony Montana
2008

Reelin’ for Research is founded in memory of Tony Montana. The first tournament is held in Morehead City, North Carolina, to support childhood cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.

UNC Children's Hospital
2012

The Tony Montana Fellowship Fund is established to support physicians focused on pediatric cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.

UNC Children's Hospital
2012

The Tony Montana Fellowship Fund is established to support physicians focused on pediatric cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.

Fellowship Fund endowed in perpetuity
2018

The Fellowship Fund reaches full endowment, ensuring support into perpetuity. Pediatric cancer researchers at UNC Children’s Hospital will continue to be funded for generations.

Reelin’ for Research Pediatric Hematology Oncology Clinic signage
2022

UNC Children’s Hospital officially names its pediatric hematology and oncology clinic after Reelin’ for Research, recognizing the lasting impact of this tournament and its donors.

Reelin’ for Research Pediatric Hematology Oncology Clinic signage
2022

UNC Children’s Hospital officially names its pediatric hematology and oncology clinic after Reelin’ for Research, recognizing the lasting impact of this tournament and its donors.

Reelin’ for Research tournament today
Today

Reelin’ for Research has raised more than $9.3 million for UNC Children’s Hospital in support of childhood cancer research. Funds now power clinical trials, pediatric care, and discovery, all with one goal: to help land a cure for childhood cancer.