Put Your Fishing Skills to the Test
Join the community of passionate fishermen and women who come together to celebrate their love for angling.
Every summer, fishing tournaments are held throughout the country, offering anglers the chance to test their skills against the fish and their fellow fishermen. From bass fishing and catfish contests to deep sea marlin events, the diversity of tournaments offers a wide range of opportunities to get out there on the water, regardless of your fishing preference or skill level. Join the community of passionate fishermen and women who come together to celebrate their love for angling in these exciting competitions throughout the summer.
Top Summer Fishing Tournaments
Bassmaster Classic
The Bassmaster Classic is one of the most prestigious events in the world of bass fishing. Often referred to as the "Super Bowl of Bass Fishing," this tournament brings together the top anglers from around the globe to compete for the title. The event typically takes place in late spring or early summer, with the exact dates and location varying each year.
FLW Tour
The FLW Tour, now known as the Major League Fishing (MLF) Big5, is another popular series of freshwater bass fishing tournaments. Founded in 1996, the tour has grown significantly and is known for its stiff competition and professional structure. The tour consists of multiple events held throughout the year, culminating in a championship that crowns the season's top angler.
Florida Bass Club
The Florida Bass Club organizes monthly bass fishing tournaments in central Florida's lakes, known for their regular yields of large largemouth bass, often tipping the scales at nine to eleven pounds. These competitions are held in renowned fishing locations, including Lake Okeechobee and the St. Johns River. The club, which is exclusive to boaters, hosts tournaments on the first Monday of each month, welcoming both new and experienced bass anglers to join and share in the thrill of bass fishing.
Where to Stay
Joy Bamboo Forest Farm is a tropical Asper bamboo farm located in Sebring, Florida, just a short drive away from Lake Okeechobee. Each RV site is accompanied by full hookups and a smokeless fire pit and with fields on three sides of this luscious campground, you’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of Southern Florida.
Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament
The Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament is hosted in Manteo, North Carolina, every August. Anglers compete for billfish while also having the chance to catch wahoo and tuna. The tournament is well-known for its daily post-fishing parties and is a staple of the local community, attracting both participants and spectators who enjoy the social festivities. It's an excellent opportunity for networking and experiencing the fun of sport fishing along the beautiful Outer Banks.
Where to Stay
The Refuge on Roanoke Island in the Outer Banks is the perfect spot to set up camp for anglers visiting the region for the Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament. This campground offers several waterfront RV sites as well as kayaking and canoeing opportunities, a clubhouse, a pool, and more.
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic
Hosted at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Florida, this saltwater fishing event is famous for its high-stakes competition. Typically taking place in June, this tournament not only features some of the most skilled marlin anglers but also includes a variety of family-oriented activities and entertainment options right there on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
Where to Stay
Santa Rosa RV Resort is a well-appointed RV campground just down the road from this fishing event. Here, you’ll find a variety of top notch luxuries including a beautiful outdoor pool, a fitness center, a fishing pier, and a beautiful Gulf Coast beach.
Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit
The Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit is the longest-running, team format, national walleye circuit in the U.S., consistently attracting some of the "Toughest Anglers on Planet Earth." Known for its competitive spirit and professional atmosphere, the tournament trail takes place in the nation's best walleye fishing waters, from the Great Lakes in the east to the Missouri River out west, home to some of the country's largest walleyes. Each tournament guarantees over 100% payback in cash and prizes annually, drawing both professional and amateur anglers from all over to compete.
Important Information for Anglers
Fishing Licenses and Regulations
Securing the appropriate fishing license is important for anyone looking to participate in fishing tournaments across North America. These licenses help manage fish populations effectively and every state has its own set of rules, which may cover everything from the allowable catch size to the types of gear you can use.
It's also important to familiarize yourself with specific fishing regulations and tournament rules like weigh-ins and catch and release policies before you participate. Typically, this information can be found directly from tournament organizers. For detailed information and to obtain a license, visit the website of the state’s natural resources or wildlife department.
Preparation and Tips for Competitors
Gear and Equipment
The right gear and equipment can make all the difference in your success at fishing tournaments. For kayak tournaments, make sure your kayak is outfitted with rod holders and has enough stability for casting and reeling in big fish. Bass fishing tournaments require sensitive rods and fast reels to feel the bite and react quickly. For saltwater tournaments, choose heavy duty gear that can handle the corrosive saltwater environment and larger, stronger fish.
Fishing Reports and Strategies
Fishing reports can provide insights into where fish are biting, what types of bait or lures are most effective, and how recent weather conditions have affected fish behavior. Use these reports to plan your strategy for the tournament.
When targeting specific game fish, tailor your approach to their known habits and preferences. For big bass, focus on structure like weed beds or submerged logs where bass like to hide. For catfish, you might head to deeper river bends or muddy bottoms where these bottom-feeders often live.
Physical Preparation
Some may not realize just how physically taxing a fishing tournament can be. You’re often on your feet for hours at a time and the casting and reeling motions can be physically demanding over multiple hours. This is particularly true for ocean fishing where you’re more likely to hook a large fish that can put up quite the fight. Make sure to put in some training hours before you sign up for your next competition.
Join the Excitement
Planning to attend a fishing tournament this summer? Search Spot2Nite to easily book RV sites, tent sites, lodging, or glamping near the event using our interactive map. Or maybe you’re just looking for a private campground with fishing experiences on-property? Apply Spot2Nite’s boating and fishing filters to find the perfect destination to cast a line and reel ‘em in.
