Cherokee Angler Wins 10th Trophy, Inspires Kids to Fish

Jason Christie caught more than bass this year. The Cherokee Nation citizen and professional angler landed his 10th career B.A.S.S. trophy in June at North Carolina's Pasquotank River, reigniting a career he worried might fade away.

At 52, Christie noticed something during the Bassmaster Classic that lit a fire. A graphic flashed showing the oldest winners were 53 and 54 years old. He was one year away from that record.

"I don't want to be one of those guys that just fades out and you don't ever hear from again," Christie said. His first 2026 win came in March at Mississippi's Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, surprising even himself after feeling the pressure of age.

The Park Hill native isn't keeping his success to himself. For over 12 years, he's partnered with Cherokee Nation Wildlife Conservation to host the annual Jason Christie Children's Fishing Day during Cherokee National Holiday. Every Cherokee kid leaves with a free rod and reel.

Christie's passion for conservation has grown deeper with time. He worries people overlook how fragile natural resources really are.

"There aren't millions of fish in the lake or millions of deer running around like people think," he explained. "If we don't protect it then future generations aren't going to have it to enjoy."

His message resonates with families. Cherokee Nation Deputy Secretary of State Canaan Duncan calls the fishing day a staple event that brings together his kids, niece, nephew, and father across generations.

The Ripple Effect

Christie's wins on the water create waves far beyond tournament trophies. By connecting Cherokee youth with fishing and conservation, he's building a bridge between cultural tradition and environmental stewardship. Each child who receives a rod and reel gets more than equipment. They gain access to outdoor recreation that many families might not otherwise afford.

The annual event strengthens what Duncan describes as "culture, community and conservation all in one spot." When a first language speaker like Duncan's father teaches grandchildren to fish alongside a professional angler, tradition flows forward.

This year's fishing day promises something new. Christie won't reveal details, but after 12 years of the same format, he and the Wildlife Conservation team have "something up our sleeve."

The event happens September 5 from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. at the pond behind Cherokee Casino Tahlequah, giving another generation of Cherokee kids the chance to discover what makes Christie's life anything but boring.