By Becky Holland
Spencer Hinson was, by all accounts, a typical Georgia boy. He loved his momma, Southern cooking, and—most of all—fishing.
“He was like the cook for his friends,” said his mother, Betty Hinson, 82. “During hunting season, he’d cook them all a big breakfast. After it was done, he’d load up his fishing tackle and gear and head to the river. He didn’t like to hunt, but he sure loved to be on the river to fish.”
That love for fishing is now part of a legacy that has spanned decades in Cochran.
On the day Spencer died, he had been digging worms with his fishing partner, Wendell Berryhill, preparing for a fishing trip the next day. Betty said he was driving near the airport on Airport Road when strong winds—following a recent tornado—got underneath his truck, causing it to roll over. He was not wearing a seatbelt.
In the days after his funeral, Spencer’s friends wanted to honor his memory in a meaningful way. What began as a simple idea turned into something much bigger—the Spencer Hinson Memorial River Fishing Tournament.
Over the years, the tournament has drawn participants from across the area, with donations eventually leading to the creation of a scholarship fund in his name.
About 10 years ago, Betty and her grandson, Will—Spencer’s son—took over organizing the event. Will was just four years old when his father passed away.
Today, the tournament continues to follow state guidelines, with fishing beginning at 7 a.m. and weigh-in at 4 p.m. sharp. Prizes are donated, and breakfast and lunch are available for participants.
This year marks the 35th annual tournament, a milestone that speaks to the impact Spencer’s life continues to have.
“New people come every year,” Betty said. “It means a lot.”
The 2026 Spencer Hinson Memorial River Fishing Tournament will be held May 2 at Dykes Landing in Cochran.
“It is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming,” Betty said. “This was done—and is being done—for my son.”
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