How to Enter Fishing Tournaments

Fishing tournaments test anglers' skills against fish as well as against other fishermen. There are tournaments for freshwater and saltwater fish alike, professional tournaments that cost thousands of dollars to enter and tournaments that cost less than $100 to enter. Choose which ones to enter based on your skill level, the fish species included and the cost to enter.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find fishing tournaments in your state or area. Since most tournaments must be permitted through state natural resource management agencies, the nearest office to you will be able to provide you with a list of fishing tournaments. Or place a call to bait shops in your area. Employees there will know about any tournaments coming up.

2. Determine which tournaments you're interested in participating in, then ask for the name and contact information for the tournament director. Tournaments listed on the Internet should have a name and contact information listed.

3. Contact the tournament director. Ask questions like: Is this a team tournament, or individual tournament? Can I choose my partner? How much does it cost to enter? How much do I need to pay up front? If you're satisfied you want to fish in the tournament, give the tournament director your contact information, including address and phone number.

4. Know that the tournament director will send you more information with specific details about the tournament, including how you need to pay for it. Fill out the form with your information and your partner's information if it's a team tournament.

5. Pay special attention to any minimum standards your boat must meet, insurance you have to have and the tournament's rules and regulations. If these are satisfactory, mail the tournament form back to the tournament director. Sometimes you can pay with cash or check, other times the tournament director will accept a credit card. Once your entry is confirmed, get your fishing equipment ready for the tournament.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk with other fishermen in the area and ask them about the tournaments they fish, or if they know anything about the tournament you plan to fish. They can alert you to potential problems, or direct you toward a tournament with a good reputation.
• Ask the tournament director about how many fishermen can participate in the tournament, and how many already have signed up. This will give you an indication of how quickly you have to make your decision.
• If you want to use a tournament to hone your fishing skills, considering entering a pro-am type event. In these tournaments, professional anglers are paired with amateurs.

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