This weekend will mark the 20th annual walleye tournament hosted by the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club. The tournament this year is a milestone that speaks to both the club’s dedication and the passion of the regional and international angling community. This year’s tournament brings a new twist, shifting from its traditional three-day format to a condensed, high-stakes, two-day event.

“The new shorter format promises to heighten the excitement, and we have many surprises for our fishing teams during this 20th year celebration of the event,” said Chris Surma, the new tournament director.

With less time on the water (two days vs. three days), every decision from where to fish to which lure to use, and where to fish, will carry more weight. Anglers will need to be sharper, faster and more strategic than ever. It’s a tournament format change that will add fresh energy to an already electric anniversary fishing event. Be sure to visit the Great Lakes Fishery Commission booth, which will be on-site at the club during the weigh-in events.

A shorter and tighter schedule may help attract newer or younger competitors who might not have been able to commit to a three-day event. A recent check with Con Club weighmaster Al Zurowski last weekend revealed that 96 teams have registered for the event. It demonstrates that the club keeps things dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the fishing community. The Con Club has been a cornerstone of the local fishing community for decades, not only hosting tournaments but also leading conservation and education efforts. This inclusive community welcomes everyone, regardless of their experience level or background, to be part of something special.

Each year, anglers accept that the best fishing lures seem to evolve to new shapes and colors. See what’s hot with a stop to my favorite Lake Erie tackle shop, Bill’s Hooks, a small store on Route 5 just south of Dunkirk. Photo courtesy of Forrest Fisher

The 20th anniversary of this tournament is a testament to the leadership and dedication toward growing the sport of fishing locally. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning the ropes, competitive fishing in Chautauqua County showcases the best of what the region has to offer: substantial fish populations, stunning lake views, and a vibrant fishing community. With cash and gear prizes estimated to be over $50,000 on the line, the tournament delivers more than bragging rights; it’s an invitation to challenge yourself while having fun.

Following the new format two-day Con Club walleye tournament this weekend, the Eastern Lake Erie Charterboat Association is hosting its annual VIP Lake Erie Experience on Aug. 4-5 at the Clarion Hotel in Dunkirk, inviting legislators, guests, and outdoor media guests from across the region to celebrate the local Lake Erie resource through fishing, boating, tourism, and the outdoor culture that makes this region special. They’re going to enjoy the Boardwalk Market too. Then, just two days later, on Aug. 7-8, the Cabela’s National Walleye Tour Qualifier event will take place in Dunkirk Harbor, a professional angler TV event. The Walleye Tour weigh-in events are open to the public. Visit www.outdoorteamworks.com.

It is safe to say that the word is out on our HOT eastern basin Lake Erie walleye fishing. Local anglers are filling their daily walleye limits of six fish per person with quick morning fish trips. It seems that spinner/worm rigs are working great, but there are so many fish here right now that anglers report almost everything is catching fish. The sheer fun and enjoyment of the fishing experience as a participant or observer at the weigh station celebrations, are undeniable. Hope to see you there. Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Aug. 1-2: 20th annual Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club Walleye Derby — Dunkirk Harbor; three fish per bag/per day, two days; Contact Chris Surma: csurma@yahoo.com. Captain’s meeting, July 31 at NCCC.

Aug. 4-5: VIP Lake Erie Experience, Meet/Greet Aug. 4 evening — by invitation only, https://comefishlakeerie.com. Info: ELECBA President: Capt. Jim Steel at 716-481-5348.

Aug. 7-8: Cabela’s National Walleye Tour Qualifier event, Dunkirk Harbor. Professional angler TV event. Weigh-in events are open to the public. Visit www.outdoorteamworks.com.

Aug. 15-16: Innovative Outdoors Walleye Challenge (Dunkirk), $500 entry, Jim Steel, 716-481-5348; https://innovative-outdoors.com/.