A complex sport, fishing is about about companionship and competition, enjoyment of nature’s scenic vistas and blinding focus, memories of lazy summers at the lake and high speed boats on the ocean, simple pleasures and big money.
Fishing contests and angling competitions across the USA attract visitors from every state and from abroad - some competing for prestigious fishing titles, other for large rewards, some for both!
ARIZONA
Lake Havasu City Striper Derby
May
Lake Havasu
This Western Outdoor News team fishing tournament targets striped bass or “stripers” on Lake Havasu. The premier striper tournament in the west, it attracts anglers from around the country as they compete for over $100,000 in cash and prizes.
Varying classes of competition make it a great event for anglers of any experience level, as well as for family teams. Entry includes event shirt, hat and goodie bag. Saturday’s beach BBQ and party adds to the fun, along with Sunday’s awards ceremony.
For more information visit: www.wonews.com
MARYLAND
White Marlin Open
August
Harbour Island, Maryland
The world’s largest billfish tournament, the White Marlin Open is an event that can be fun and exciting for the spectators as well as the anglers. All fish must be weighed on the official scale at Harbour Island each day of the tournament from 4:00 to 9:15 PM and are open to the public free of charge. As the week goes on, the suspense builds, as potential lottery sized fortunes change hands with a tip of the scale.
There are prizes for catching white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin & shark. Between 300 and 400 boats participate each year for $3.5 million in prize money.
For more information visit: www.whitemarlinopen.com
MISSOURI
Opening Day of Trout Season
March
Lebanon, Missouri
The first day of trout season typically attracts thousands of anglers who stand shoulder-to-shoulder along the banks of the Niangua River.
Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty, hiking trails and rustic dining lodge. Other popular opening day spots around the state include Roaring River State Park in Cassville, Montauk State Park in Salem and Meramec State Park near Sullivan.
For more information visit: www.lebanonmo.org
NORTH CAROLINA
Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament
June
Atlantic Beach, North Carolina
The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament is an exciting Crystal Coast tradition. The tournament is fished by approximately 100 competitors in substantial cash categories. During this week-long event, visitors can view the live weigh-ins, pig out at the pig pickin’, or get down at the Captain’s Party. For the first time guest can enjoy fireworks.
For more information visit: www.thebigrock.com
