2023 Fishing Tournament Calendar
Fishermen looking to add some excitement to their fishing this season can participate in one of the many fishing tournaments taking place throughout the Northeast. There are contests for just about every species that swims in our waters, with tournaments lasting a single day, a week or even the entire season.
All States – Maine To New Jersey
The Striper Cup
May to September
This season-long tournament provides many ways to win, with individual and team competitions, a catch and release component and a grand prize boat.
Maine
Casco Bay Classic Sportfishing Tournament
TBD
South Portland, Maine
As a first-class tuna tournament, the Casco Bay Classic Sportfishing Tournament combines highly-skilled anglers from all over the northeast in a contest of competition, comradery and fun. Funds raised by the tournament go towards educational scholarships for deserving individuals and giving charitable donations to those in need.
2nd Annual Bluefin Benefit Battle Supporting the American Cancer Society
July 15-21
Portland, Maine
In 2022, the Bluefin Benefit Battle became Maine’s first tuna fishing tournament that fundraised for local families battling cancer. The Bluefin Benefit Battle allows commercial fishermen to participate in a friendly competition while helping support the American Cancer Society’s mission in countless ways. Last year, the event raised $125,000, and this year’s event aims to surpass this amount. Participation is not only limited to fishing. On the final day of the tournament, July 21, the Bluefin Benefit Battle holds a community celebration open to all from 5-9 pm with an award ceremony for tournament winners, merchandise for sale, a silent auction, music, food trucks, and more. To learn more about the competition, sign up, sponsor the event, or donate, visit this link.
Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza
Jul 29 – Aug 4
South Portland, Maine
As a first-class tuna tournament, the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza Tuna Tournament combines highly-skilled anglers from all over the northeast in a contest of competition, comradery and fun. Funds raised by the tournament go towards educational scholarships for deserving individuals and important Bluefin tuna research.
New Hampshire
The Winni Derby
May 19-21
Laconia, NH
For generations, the Winni Derby has been providing family-friendly traditions of tournament fishing. Save the date for this family-friendly Lake Winnipesaukee experience and register for your shot at cash and kayak prizes!
Massachusetts
Seekonk Lions Club’s Tenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament
April 17
Seekonk, MA
Questions/donations/volunteers please email: seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com.
With the best prizes and sponsors in the local community the Seekonk Lions Club’s Tenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament is open for all children through high school in Seakonk area.
Fishing poles will be available for first-timers or those that just want to try it. Different types of bait and accessories are available for everyone along with some of the most expert advice in the industry from George the Fishing Guy. The tournament is held at Old Grist Mill Pond RT 114A in Seekonk from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. American Legion Post 311 will be providing the hall for anglers to sit down and relax while enjoying Chick-fil-A sandwiches with cookies, chips and drinks.
Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!
Spring Sea Run Opener
? – June 1
Nantucket, MA
The Spring Sea Run Opener is all about getting back outside and enjoying the best of what Nantucket has to offer while raising money for a local nonprofit organization. The tournament start date is open-ended and will “begin” when the first sea-run striped bass has been landed by a tournament participant. The prize for first landed sea-run striped bass may be claimed at any point if the angler can provide photographic evidence of sea lice.
Fishing for the Mission 22: Spring Fling Black Sea Bass Family Fishing Tournament
June 2-4
MA
In order to fund therapeutic fishing programs, Fishing for Mission 22 hosts large fishing derbies and other fundraising events throughout the Cape. The proceeds from events help fund Operation Tackle 22 and Common Ground 22 HealthCare Connect.
South Shore Striper Tournament
June 9-11
Hull, MA to Race Point, MA
Join NSRWA for a fun weekend of fishing! The South Shore Striper Tournament awards cash and additional prizes for winning anglers in five separate categories.
E.J. Jaxtimer Builder, Inc. Little Big Fishing Tournament
June 22
Hyannis, MA
The Little Big Fishing Tournament is a one-day fundraising tournament to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cape Cod and the Islands (BBBS). The tournament is anticipating up to 35 boats and over 175 men, women and junior anglers to participate. The day will end with an award ceremony, raffle prize drawings, live auction, and food provided by Baxter’s Fish ‘N Chips.
Cape Cod Seventh Annual Charter Cup Fishing Tournament
July 12
Hyannis, MA
Since its inception in 2017, the Charter Cup Fishing Tournament has raised over $1.1 million. The tournament gives 100 percent of the profits raised to participating nonprofits. This year, the tournament will raise funds for Angel Flight NE, Barnstable Police K9 Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cape Cod and the Islands, Cape Abilities, Duffy Health Center, Gosnold, Inc., Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod, Housing Assistance Corp (HAC), Joslin Diabetes Center, May Institute, Tommy’s Place, WellStrong, the Yarmouth Police Foundation, and YMCA Cape Cod.
Freedom Fish Lynn Fishing Derby
July 15
Lynn, MA
If you are a Veteran or Active Duty and love to fish, please join us for a day of fishing to thank you for your dedication and service.
The Office of Mayor Thomas McGee, the Department of Veteran’s Services, Economic Development & Industrial Corporation, Lynn Housing Authority and Neighborhood Development, and the Lynn Veteran’s Council are joining forces to host Freedom Fish Lynn; a day long fishing derby and luncheon to say thank you to Veterans of Lynn and the surrounding communities that have or are serving our country. The fishing derby will be held on the ocean around Lynn’s beautiful harbor and culminating at the Blossom Street ferry site where there will be a fish weigh-in, followed by a cook-out. If anyone is unable to fish or would rather cruise, we have secured a handicap accessible vessel. They will accommodate a service animal and/or health aids.
For more information or to sign up go to Freedom Fish Lynn Fishing Derby or call 781-581-9399.
Rhode Island
Block Island Inshore Fishing Tournament
July 22-23
Block Island, RI
This tournament is catch & release for striped bass and bluefish. A photo of the fish with the regulation measuring device will be uploaded to the tournament smart phone app. Real time results will be available. Fish must be entered immediately after capture with the location logged when photo is taken. Cash prizes for fluke, black sea bass, striped bass and bluefish with boat, shore, youth, team and photo contest. All tournament fees go to benefit the Block Island Fire Department and Rescue.
The Rhode Island Tog Classic
TBD
Portsmouth, RI
This one-day shoot-out tautog tournament features awards as well as a raffle with BIG PRIZES! All Proceeds are to benefit Gabe’s Got This! Gabe’s Got This is a charitable organization founded to assist families with the high cost of medical bills not covered by insurance. You can enter by calling the shop or signing up on their website.
Connecticut
Bass-A-Palooza
June 10
Norwalk, CT
Western Long Island Sound charity fishing tournament emphasizing catch and release, has prizes and separate categories and trophies for the largest striped bass (1st, 2nd, 3rd), largest bluefish, largest fish on fly, most unusual catch, and largest fish caught on a Barbie rod (or similar approved by judges).
Hooks for Heroes Fishing Tournament
June 24
Stamford, CT
Tournament participants compete for largest bluefish and largest bass. 100% of all entry fees, sponsorships and donations will support the Disabled American Veterans Stamford Chapter 13’s Operation Gift Card project, which benefits patients at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Hospital and their families.
Fluke Fest 2023
TBD
Open to all waters- Last weigh in by 3pm at 362 Boston Post Rd. Westbrook, CT
This year’s Fluke Fest is sure to be the biggest tournament yet. More prizes, more sponsors, and more perks just for signing up! Big Boat and kayak divisions as always. Join the Blackhall Outfitters crew after the weigh-in for a BBQ and awards ceremony complete with entertainment! Be sure to check back often to see our growing list of sponsors as well as links for early sign up incentives.
The Mystic Wellington Yacht Club/My Little Buddy’s Boat Annual Striped Bass Tournament
TBD
Medford, MA
The Mystic Wellington Yacht Club kicks off their Autism Awareness events with their 11th annual Striped Bass Fishing Tournament. All proceeds from the tournament will be donated to My Little Buddy’s Boat Charity dedicated to helping kids with Autism. My Little Buddy’s Boat is a registered charity and donates all the proceeds to local special education schools specialized in autism learning and care. If you just want to donate, please just register for the tournament!
On Sunday July 31st, the MWYC hosts the Autism Awareness public event, where the schools specializing in autism learning and care, invite students and families to enjoy fishing, boat rides, water slides and many more games and prizes.
For additional information on either of these events, please feel free to contact David Urban, Tournament Director, 781-389-2544 or Joe DiGirolamo, MWYC Commodore, 781-706-0807
Port Jeff Ferry Greatest Bluefish Tournament on Earth
August 26 – 27
Long Island Sound, CT
Fish anywhere in Long Island Sound from the Whitestone Bridge to the Colregs Demarcation Line. The fishing tournament is open to all and youth participation is encouraged. The heaviest catch wins $25,000 with other chances to win cash and prizes totaling $40,000!
The Tightlined Slam
Oct 14 – Western Long Island Sound
Sept 30 – Eastern Long Island Sound
Norwalk, CT
The Tightlined Slam is a catch-and-release fly and light tackle fishing tournament in the western Long Island Sound dedicated to conservation. Anglers compete in nine categories on both a team and individual basis, targeting striped bass, bluefish, false albacore and bonito.
For more information please contact Taylor Ingraham by email at tayloringraham@tightlined.com
Tog-Tober
TBD
Open to all waters- Weigh in at 362 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT.
Year 8 of Tog-Tober is here and the if the fishing is anything like last year we are in for an action packed tournament! Cash and prizes for our Big boat and kayak divisions. Keep an eye out at blackhalloutfitters.com for all the details. Last years captains bags were loaded with the goods and winners walked away with THOUSANDS in cash and prizes. Stay tuned this fall!
New York
Montauk Canyon Challenge
July 14-22
Montauk, NY
The Montauk Canyon Challenge has grown into a Tournament that has restored Montauk as home to Top Canyon Sport Fishing Boats. Cash prizes and Calcutta. Tournament proceeds go to benefit The Coast Guard Foundation, Maggies Mission and others.
The Montauk Mercury Grand Slam
July 15 – 16
Montauk Harbor, NY
This one-of-a-kind in-shore event is keyed to catching the largest grouping of four species: sea bass, striped bass, fluke and bluefish. Individual catches will be judged as well.
The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association tth Annual Catfish Chaos Derby
TBD
Hudson River and its tributaries
Dedicated to Eric Allen, the HRFA Catfish Chaos Derby is a charity catch and release event featuring cash and gear prizes for adult and youth winners. Only channel catfish, white catfish, and bullheads will be counted and fishing from both shore and boat are allowed.
Port Jeff Ferry Greatest Bluefish Tournament on Earth
August 26 – 27
Long Island Sound, CT
Fish anywhere in Long Island Sound from the Whitestone Bridge to the Colregs Demarcation Line. The fishing tournament is open to all and youth participation is encouraged. The heaviest catch wins $25,000 with other chances to win cash and prizes totaling $40,000!
Fall Striper Showdown Fishing Tournament
September 16 – 17
TBD
Join the ELIH Foundation for the 5th Annual Fall Striper Showdown Fishing Tournament! Sponsored by The Paradise Point Club, Port of Egypt Marine, Grady White, Little Creek Oysters, and A Lure, this event is sure to be a weekend of friendly competition, fabulous events, and fun, all for the benefit of your community hospital. A Captain’s Party will be held on September 13 to kick the weekend off, followed by the Tournament on September 14 and a Striper Bash that evening. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top 3 stripers and top 3 blues.
Freeport Hudson Anglers Annual Shark Tournament
June 20
Hempstead, NY
One of the oldest and largest shark fishing tournaments on the East Coast will mark its 48th year when hundreds of boats head out in pursuit of the big one that will win the big money. Purses depend upon the number of entries, but in previous years over $225,000 in cash and prizes have been awarded.
Montauk Marine Basin Shark Tournament
June 23-25
Montauk, NY
This tournament is limited to 150 boats competing for a purse of $50,000 broken into various prizes, including women’s and junior divisions.
Freeport Tuna Club Fluke Shootout
July 15
Hempstead, NY
For 80 years the Freeport Tuna Club (FTC) has been one of Long Island ‘s premier fishing clubs. This club event is open to members and non-members.
Hooks For Heroes Summer Fluke Slam
June 16-17
Point Lookout, NY
The 5th annual Summer Fluke Slam is presented by Hooks For Heroes, a 501(c)3 Charity supporting American Veterans & First Responders through fishing to help cope with the physical and mental injuries sustained during service. Hooks For Heroes is completely volunteer, Veteran and First Responder ran and 100% of donations received go directly to their mission of sending our nation’s heroes fishing.
The Tightlined Slam
Oct 14 – Western Long Island Sound
Sept 30 – Eastern Long Island Sound
Norwalk, CT
The Tightlined Slam is a catch-and-release fly and light tackle fishing tournament in the western Long Island Sound dedicated to conservation. Anglers compete in nine categories on both a team and individual basis, targeting striped bass, bluefish, false albacore and bonito.
For more information please contact Taylor Ingraham by email at tayloringraham@tightlined.com
New Jersey
Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament
May 21
Island Beach State Park, NJ
Registration opens at 5:00am for those not pre-registered. The individual who catches the overall largest fish wins the “Governor’s Award,” and has his/her name engraved on the Governor’s Cup, which is permanently displayed at the park. There is also a High School Team category! Fishing equipment is awarded to winners who catch the largest fish in each species category.
Berkeley Striper Club Spring Striped Bass C&R Tournament
Seaside park, NJ
May 27 – June 4
Tournament boundaries are all NJ State waters. There are three divisions, Surf/Shore, Boat, and Kayak with separate prizes for each. Proceeds benefit the Berkeley Striper Club Fisheries Defense Fund.
Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Bluefin Fever
Sat. Jun 3 or Sun. Jun 4 – pick your day
Brick, NJ
Entry fee $250 per boat. Mandatory Captain’s meeting Fri. 6/2 at Jersey Coast Shark Anglers, 385 Herbertsville Rd., Brick Twp., NJ 08724
Annual “Brutus” Fluke Tournament
June 17
Somers Point, NJ
Egg Harbor Township Elks Lodge 2563 and Somers Point AMVETS Post 911 are again combining their efforts. The tournament proceeds support both local veterans and handicapped children’s charities. The entry fee is $40.00 per angler and fishing may be done from boat, pier, or beach. This year’s Brutus Tournament will feature over $2000 in cash prizes (including $1000 for 1st!) as well as non-cash prizes. The heaviest striper prize ($100 prize) returns this year and awards will be given for fluke, bluefish, and the Junior Division.
The Schools Out Tuna Tournament
June 21 – 25
Cape May, NJ
South Jersey Tournaments is teaming up with the local community to kick off this next big event. Featuring Day Trip or Overnight Options, extended weather window and several Calcutta options for your team to target Yellowfin, Bigeye, and even swords and mahi. Giving all the options for anglers to choose from to be on the water at the right time! Teams can depart from any Inlet from Cape May to Ocean City, New Jersey. Weigh-ins will be held at South Jersey Marina, daily featuring dockside events and open house hospitality at the Cape May Marlin & Tuna Club.
The 32nd Annual MidAtlantic Cup
July 4
Cape May, NJ
Now in its 32nd year the MidAtlantic has truly been a one-of-a-kind experience that continues to create memories to last a lifetime for all participants. The event is staged out of two world renowned ports; Cape May, NJ, where the Canyon Club Resort Marina is the home base of the tournament and Ocean City, MD, with Sunset Marina serving as the second port’s headquarters. Along with their prime locations, each port has first class accommodations and offers distinct amenities for participants to enjoy while dockside. Both locations have fully run weigh-ins simultaneously, which are broadcast via our livestream media to keep everyone informed as the excitement happens and the participants take center stage.
South Jersey Yacht Sales Offshore Showdown
July 5 – 8
Cape May, NJ
The South Jersey Yacht Sales Offshore Showdown has been a family staple year after year to get the team together to go fishing! From the fishing to the dockside hospitality, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this event. Last year we were excited to announce the partnership of the Sport Fishing Championship as an additional feature to the event, which highlighted our teams fishing from Cape May and really put some of the best offshore fishing crews on the world stage as part of their broadcast. We look forward to hosting the SFC once again this year and expect to build on 2022’s turnout, fun and camaraderie among the brands offered by South Jersey Yacht Sales and many more!
VFW 3729 Long Beach Island 4th Annual Fluke-A-Thon
July 15
Long Beach Island, NJ
Registration online at vfwpost3729lbi.org or at captain’s meeting at the VFW on Friday July 14th 5-9pm. All proceeds go to Veterans’ Charities. Entry fee $100 per boat. Following the weigh-in there will be a BBQ with music and a cash bar will be provided. Cash prizes and trophies awarded – Men, Women, Teens and Junior divisions.
Jimmy Johnson’s Atlantic City “Quest For The Ring” Championship Fishing Week
July 16-23
Atlantic City, NJ
Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach, Jimmy Johnson, is extending his word-class fishing tournament from South Florida to Atlantic City, NJ. Coach Johnson has teamed up with the team Atlantic City Sports Commission to add on to the series and bring this high stakes and overly entertaining competitive sportfishing experience to Atlantic City from July 16-23. It will be hosted at the Frank S. Farley State Marina at the Golden Nugget. Another $1 Million guaranteed purse is up for grabs and as Coach Johnson always says, “COME & GET IT!”
Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Fluke Fever
July 22
Brick, NJ
Mandatory Captain’s meeting Fri. 7/21, 6:30pm at Jersey Coast Shark Anglers, 385 Herbertsville Rd., Brick Twp., NJ 08724 (Door prizes and Refreshments)
Cape May Marlin Tournament
July 27 – 30
Cape May, NJ
The Cape May Marlin Tournament puts our region on the map as a must-do event for Marlin fishing enthusiasts. Building on the 60 years of rich history and tradition started at the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, the Cape May Marlin Tournament continues to grow as one of the oldest and prestigious release tournaments in the Mid-Atlantic
Beach Haven White Marlin Invitational
Aug 16 – 19
Beach Haven, NJ
This trolling-only tournament awards big cash prizes and calcuttas for offshore species ranging from marlin to wahoo.
The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association 6th Annual Catfish Chaos Derby
TBD
Hudson River and its tributaries
Dedicated to Eric Allen, the HRFA Catfish Chaos Derby is a charity catch and release event featuring cash and gear prizes for adult and youth winners. Only channel catfish, white catfish, and bullheads will be counted and fishing from both shore and boat are allowed.
Jersey Coast Shark Angler’s Family Fun Fluke Tournament
Aug 12
Brick, NJ
Mandatory Captain’s meeting Fri. 8/11, 6:30pm at Jersey Coast Shark Anglers, 385 Herbertsville Rd., Brick Twp., NJ 08724 (Door prizes and Refreshments)
MidAtlantic Tournament
August 20 – 25
Cape May, NJ
The 2023 MidAtlantic Tournament has continued to attract participants in search for the majestic blue marlin up and down the East Coast. As the largest open boundary tournament with weigh stations from Manasquan Inlet to Virginia Beach, this tour[1]nament is the next MUST DO events for any marlin fishing enthusiast! Starting off with over $40,000 prize purse rolled over from last year’s tournament, this year’s MidAtlantic Tournament will certainly climb higher as teams return to the battle grounds in search of a winning blue marlin to bring back to the scales! This is your chance to compete with marlin anglers across the region. From Sandy Hook, NJ to Virginia Beach, VA all are welcome to join in on the action.
Long Beach Island Fishing Club Annual World Series of Surf Fishing Tournament
Sept 23
Harvey Cedars, NJ
• eMail bforg001@gmail.com for More Information
The tournament offers terrific prizes, raffles and of course… our first-class lunch for our guests which is ALWAYS prepared and cooked on premises by our fantastic chefs and kitchen crew. LUNCH FOR PAID ANGLERS ONLY. We cannot accommodate guests.
• 1st place team: $150 gift card to each angler at a local tackle shop
• 2nd place team: $100 gift card to each angler at a local tackle shop
• 3rd place team: $50 gift card to each angler at a local tackle shop
Individuals will be grouped into 6 person teams for position and compete as individuals for prizes/awards for largest and most fish.
• 75 door prizes with a value of $50 or more each
• 6 beautiful custom-made surf rods from local craftsman will be raffled via “Chinese Auction”.
• Great prizes for largest and most fish for male, female, and youth (team and individual).
Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Striper Fever
Sat. Nov. 18 or Sun Nov. 19 – Captains Choice to Fish
Brick, NJ
$250 – Club member with heaviest striper! Prizes awarded on Monday Nov. 20st at 7:00PM at JCSA Clubhouse. Prizes Based on Number of Entries. PAY OUTS: 40%, 20%, and 10%. Junior Angler prizes will not include cash.
3 on “2023 Fishing Tournament Calendar”
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Tracy Brandeal I’m wondering if someone could help me find a fishing tournament for kids in south jersey. I have an 8 year old boy that loves fishing and would be very interested in getting in a fishing tournament. Any information would be helpful. Thanks!
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Greg W Striper Cup regular competitors,
I am a tournament rookie. Not rookie angler I’ve been at this a long time. Any tips out there for recording your catch. I believe you can only enter 1 fish a week. I surf cast almost daily and have a boat at a slip. In a good week I’ll catch a good amount of stripers. I have a few ideas but was wondering if any one had a good system.
Thx Greg W -
Rick White Hello. Would it be possible to promote our Montauk Grand Slam Charity Fishing tournament on your website? Thank you.
Rick
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