LUIDNGTON FISHING TOURNAMENTS – Photo by Sticker Mule on Unsplash.com

Ludington Fishing
Tournaments & Events

Whether it’s fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan, trout in the Pere Marquette River, or walleye in Hamlin Lake, Ludington has the best variety of fishing. And local tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket. No matter what time of year you want to cast a line, the Ludington area provides great fishing opportunities and plenty of fishing tournaments!

Tournaments & Fishing Events on This Page

Please support Visit Ludington’s LOCAL Sponsors:

Monster Pike Ice Fishing Tournament on Pere Marquette Lake

January 2027

Sponsored by Pere Marquette Expeditions

All DNR rules apply and any Michigan lake may be fished. Entry fee is $10 and registration must be completed before the 7am start time. Registration opens at 5:30am. There will be a 100% payout for the longest pike. This tournament is only for pike- no other fish will be included. Participants must be in line for measuring at Suttons Landing by 5pm. 

Gettin' Jiggy Ice Fishing Tournament

February 2027

Sponsored by Pere Marquette Expeditions

The Gettin’ Jiggy Tournament coincides with Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend. Entry fee is $10 and there is a 100% payout for the longest fish in each category: Bluegill, Crappie, and Perch. You must be in line for measuring by 6pm. At the end of the tournament, free hot dogs will be served at Sutton’s Landing down at the river and is included in the entry fee.

Michigan's Free Fishing Weekend - Winter

February 2027

The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors two Free Fishing Weekends per year. According to the Michigan Fisheries Department (517) 373-1280, the February date is always the weekend before President’s Day, and the June date is the weekend following the first full week of June.

The Winter Free Fishing Weekend has occurred since 1994 as a way to raise awareness of Michigan’s vast aquatic resources and fishing opportunities. There are over 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 11,000 inland lakes and uncounted miles of rivers and streams.

Finny Slam Fishing Tournament

March 2027

Sponsored by Pere Marquette Expeditions

Named for local fisherman, Ray Finholm, who passed away in a boating accident. All DNR rules apply and any Michigan lake may be fished. Prize includes a 100% payout for the longest fish in each category: Pike, Steelhead, and Perch. You must be in line for measuring by 6pm. The $10 entry fee includes sloppy joes down by the river at Sutton’s Landing following the tournament.

Michigan's Free Fishing Weekend - Summer

June 2027

The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors two Free Fishing Weekends per year. According to the Michigan Fisheries Department (517) 373-1280, the February date is always the weekend before President’s Day, and the June date is the weekend following the first full week of June.

The Winter Free Fishing Weekend has occurred since 1994 as a way to raise awareness of Michigan’s vast aquatic resources and fishing opportunities. There are over 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 11,000 inland lakes and uncounted miles of rivers and streams.

Ludington Offshore Fishing Tournament

July 2027

The Ludington Offshore Fishing Classic on Lake Michigan is the biggest tournament of the summer, with cash and prizes given away. The event is held annually in July and includes a Ladies Pro/Am, Youth Classic, a Big Fish Contest, and the Classic Big Boys Contest. In the afternoon as the boats make their way in, hundreds head to Ludington’s Waterfront Park to watch the weigh-in. The size of some of the fish are quite incredible.

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Current Events in the Ludington Area

Family Friendly Events

Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!

Summer Music in West Michigan

After a busy day at the beach or at work, it’s time to kick back and relax a while. What better way than to listen to some music.

Performances in West Michigan

Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.

Ludington Area Events Happening Soon

Annual Tree & Plant Sales

Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!

Festivals & Events

There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.

Ludington Monthly Calendars
The Seasons in Ludington
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area fishing information.
 

More Ludington Area Fishing Information

Ludington Salmon Fishing

Ludington’s natural resources, charter captains, and outfitters provide great salmon fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.

Boating & Fishing

The Ludington area is a paradise for those who love boating and fishing. Numerous marinas rent a variety of boats and offer modern facilities.

Fish on for Freedom

“Fish on For Freedom” is a non-profit event that provides a free day of fishing to military veterans on Lake Michigan.

Public Boat Launches

There are many places to launch a boat for fishing or recreation in the Ludington area. Most are free of charge, with plenty of parking.

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake Fishing Map

This Hamlin Lake Fishing Map details what kind of fish you might catch in various sections of the lake. Helpful for all anglers.