Whether it's fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan, trout in the PM River, or walleye in Hamlin Lake—we've got the best variety here in Ludington. And local tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.

Ludington Offshore Fishing Classic on Lake Michigan
The biggest tournament of the summer is the Ludington Offshore Classic, with cash and prizes given away. Typically held the third weekend in July, this four day event includes a Ladies Pro/Am, Youth Classic, and the Dreamweaver Lures Big Fish 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.

Fall Fishing-Salmon Run
Autumn fishing in West Michigan is the best around--and you don't have to fight the crowds to catch the big one. The fall salmon run at the Hamlin Dam within the Ludington State Park is the place to be, or try for brown trout and salmon in Pere Marquette Lake. From Big Sable Point down to Little Sable Point, the salmon and steelhead are there for the taking.

Free Fishing Weekends-No License Required
The State of Michigan offers two free fishing weekends every year, in February and June. For two days, all fishing license fees are waived, though regulations are still in effect. It gives everyone the opportunity to try this great outdoor sport.

Monster Pike Ice Fishing Tournament on Pere Marquette Lake
P.M. Expeditions of Ludington sponsors the Monster Pike Tournament every January. Entry fee is $10, and the longest fish wins.

Ice Fishing Tournament on Hamlin Lake
During the winter, ice fishing is the primary focus. It's fascinating to look across Hamlin Lake and view all the shanties that dot the ice. These diehard fishermen don't let a little cold weather stop them from the sport they love. This year, the big NAIFC (North American Ice Fishing Championship) Tournament on Hamlin Lake was held January 31, 2010. It started with a seminar on Friday night, followed by a Saturday morning kids ice camp, afternoon ice fishing, and winds down Saturday night with a dinner and cash bar. The 48-team event was won by Steve and Brian Romsek of team Lake Effect II and took home the top prize of $2,800. The kids clinic was the second-largest ever run, which speaks highly of this community's love for fishing. In 2011, the tournament hopes to come back, but earlier in January.