The Lake Michigan Tournament Trail is a captivating series of fishing tournaments held on the vast and bountiful waters of Lake Michigan. This trail offers a diverse range of events and divisions, catering to anglers of all skill levels, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic amateurs. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament angler or a newcomer to the sport, the Lake Michigan Tournament Trail promises an unforgettable fishing experience.
Dates for 2024 Events
The Lake Michigan Tournament Trail features several exciting events throughout the year, with the following dates for 2024:
| Event Name | Date |
|---|---|
| Win & Bette Matteson Annual Big Fish Contest | No specific date mentioned, but part of 2024 tournaments |
| The Monster in Manistee | No specific date mentioned, but part of 2024 tournaments |
| PSA/Bannink’s End of Summer Salmon & Trout Lines | No specific date mentioned, but part of 2024 tournaments |
Divisions and Prizes
The Lake Michigan Tournament Trail offers a diverse range of divisions and prizes, catering to anglers of all skill levels and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the various divisions and the prizes up for grabs:
333 Championship Series
- Each event features three fish, two days, and offers $10,000 in cash and prizes.
Pro/Am/333 Event
- Offers cash and prizes, with a Ladies Pro/Am and Youth Classic.
Big Fish Contest
- Offers cash and prizes for the longest fish in each category.
Ryan Williams Perch Derby
- Offers a 100% payout for the longest perch.
Gettin’ Jiggy Tournament
- Offers a 100% payout for the longest fish in each category (Bluegill, Crappie, and Perch).
Ray Finholm Memorial Tournament
- Offers a 100% payout for the longest fish in each category (Pike, Steelhead, and Perch).
Pentwater Sportfishing Association Tournament
- Offers top cash prizes of $15,000 for Pros and $5,000 for Amateurs.
Rules and Regulations
Participants in the Lake Michigan Tournament Trail must adhere to the following rules and regulations:
- All DNR rules apply: Anglers must follow the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) rules and regulations.
- Registration and Entry Fees: Participants must register before the start time, and registration fees vary by event.
- Measuring and Weigh-In: Fish must be in line for measuring by the designated time for each event.
Additional Information
The Lake Michigan Tournament Trail offers several additional points of interest for fishing enthusiasts:
Manistee Hosts Multiple Events
Manistee, a picturesque port city, hosts more Lake Michigan tournament events than any other location, providing a diverse range of divisions and contests for anglers of all types.
Free Fishing Weekends
The State of Michigan offers two Free Fishing Weekends per year, one in February and one in June, allowing anglers to experience the thrill of fishing on Lake Michigan without the need for a license.
References
- Ludington Salmon Tournament Fishing
- Michigan Tournament Registration System
- Tournament Trail
- Fishing Tournaments & Events – West Michigan Guides
- Tournament Trail | Manistee County Tourism
The Lake Michigan Tournament Trail offers a thrilling and diverse range of fishing events, catering to anglers of all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament angler or a newcomer to the sport, this trail promises an unforgettable fishing experience on the vast and bountiful waters of Lake Michigan.