For those of you who are in the fishing world Capt. Mack should really need no introduction. From his days of calling in to O’Neill Outside on WSB AM750 to his several TV shows as host to his guest spots on numerous other shows, Capt. Mack has been there promoting southern striper fishing and Lake Lanier for more than 40 years now. In fact, without Mack and his products, we wouldn’t have much of a striper fishery.

A few years ago, when I started down the road of an outdoor professional after more than 25 years in the commercial and educational furniture industry, Capt. Mack was one of the first to help me. I’ll never forget my first fishing trip with him, jigging for stripers on Lake Oconee with him. To be in his boat was a true achievement for me. Even with all his accomplishments and success, he’s the guy that will always treat people with the utmost respect and make you feel like you’re somebody.  

Now all of this is to say, Capt. Mack now needs our help. He’s facing pancreatic cancer and a tough road. So, as Capt. Mack has done for so many of us over the years, a guide on Lake Lanier has organized a benefit tournament for Mack. On Aug. 24 they are holding a virtual tournament at Lanier and after that there will be a meeting at Hammonds. The rules are as follows:

• Trophies to be awarded to the top three finishers for total length of three longest fish.

• Artificial and live bait tournament.

• $50 per boat. No limit on boat capacity.

• All proceeds go to Capt. Mack to supplement lost income while he undergoes treatment.

• Raffle at Hammond’s Fishing Center to follow the tournament. Start time is 3p.m. 

• If interested in donating items for the raffle, please reach out to Gavin Cloy at 678-357-6225.

The greatest part of the fishing community is always the willingness to help others. So, this is what I am asking of you today. If you can fish this tournament sign up and do so. If you can’t still sign up, send money, buy raffle tickets, donate.If you have social media look up Capt. Mack Benefit Fishing Tournament on Facebook and share the event. Remember, 100% of everything associated with this tournament, raffle and donations are going to help Mack and his family. 

Let’s show up and show out for Mack and Lynn. 

On a personal note, I want to thank Mack for all his support, his friendship and his mentorship over the years. When Mack called me the first time and told me he wanted to go fishing with me and do an article I felt like I was on Cloud 9. To be able to fish with a hero of yours is one of the greatest joys of my career. So, with that being said, whenever we get an opportunity to give back, we should do so. It’s good to encourage our encouragers, in doing so maybe be their heroes.

We’re praying for you Mack! 

—Outdoors columnist James Pressley can be reached at pressleyoutdoors@gmail.com.