The Sturgeon Bay Bass Open is a competitive fishing tournament held on Green Bay near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
The Sturgeon Bay Bass Open is an annual bass fishing tournament that draws anglers to one of Wisconsin's most productive walleye and bass waters. The event takes place on Green Bay, the large freshwater bay that borders Door County, and attracts both local and traveling competitors who fish for largemouth and smallmouth bass. The tournament typically runs as a one-day or two-day event, depending on the year, with boats launching from marinas in or near Sturgeon Bay.
This tournament is organized by local fishing clubs and community groups invested in supporting the sport and the region's fishing heritage. The format usually pairs anglers in boats, with weigh-ins held at a central location where catches are measured and ranked. Prize money and awards go to the top finishers, and entry fees support tournament operations and sometimes local conservation efforts.
Key Takeaways
- The Sturgeon Bay Bass Open is held on Green Bay near Sturgeon Bay and typically runs as a one-day or two-day tournament with a central weigh-in.
- Entry fees vary by year and organizer, so you should contact the tournament host directly for current pricing and registration details.
- Boats launch from local marinas, and anglers fish for largemouth and smallmouth bass during set hours determined by the tournament rules.
- The tournament draws both experienced competitors and newer anglers, making it a community event as well as a competitive one.
- Green Bay offers productive bass habitat, particularly in shallow bays and weed beds where both species hold throughout the season.
When the Tournament Takes Place
The Sturgeon Bay Bass Open is typically held in spring or early summer, though the exact dates shift from year to year. Spring tournaments (April through June) take advantage of pre-spawn and spawn periods when bass are active and concentrated in shallower water. The specific date depends on the organizing group and weather conditions, so you will need to contact the tournament host to confirm the current year's schedule.
Registration usually opens several weeks before the event and closes a few days prior. Many tournaments fill to capacity, so early registration improves your chances of securing a spot. The weigh-in window is typically set for late afternoon, giving anglers a full day on the water to locate and catch fish.
How to Register and What to Bring
To register for the Sturgeon Bay Bass Open, contact the tournament organizer directly—usually a local fishing club, chamber of commerce, or marina. They will provide entry fees, boat requirements, and any rules specific to that year's event. Most tournaments require that you have a valid Wisconsin fishing license and that your boat meets basic safety standards (life jackets, fire extinguisher, and proper registration).
Bring your own tackle, rods, and gear; tournaments do not provide equipment. You will also need to arrange your own boat or partner with another angler who has one. Some tournaments allow solo anglers to be paired with a partner by the organizer, while others require you to fish with someone you know. Confirm the pairing policy when you register.
On tournament day, arrive early enough to launch before the official start time. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Green Bay can be windy and cold even in spring, so layers are wise. Have your catch cooler or livewell ready to keep fish in good condition for the weigh-in.
Bass Fishing on Green Bay
Green Bay holds both largemouth and smallmouth bass, with smallmouth being more abundant in deeper, rockier areas and largemouths favoring shallow bays and weed beds. Early-season tournaments often focus on shallow water where bass move to spawn or feed before spawning. Look for areas with emerging vegetation, fallen trees, and gradual drop-offs where bass transition between deep and shallow zones.
Effective techniques include flipping soft plastics into weeds, casting crankbaits along structure, and working topwater lures in low-light conditions. Live bait—shiners, crawfish, or shiners—also produces well, particularly for largemouths. The key is covering water methodically and adjusting your approach based on what you find. Green Bay's size means you can fish different areas throughout the day, so scouting before the tournament (if allowed) can pay off.
Water temperature and clarity vary with the season and recent weather. Spring tournaments often deal with cooler water and higher turbidity from runoff, which can slow bite rates. Ask local anglers or the tournament organizer about recent conditions before you fish, and be prepared to adjust your strategy on the water.
Local Marinas and Launch Sites
Sturgeon Bay has several public and private marinas where tournament boats typically launch. The city's waterfront includes both full-service marinas with fuel, tackle shops, and food, as well as basic launch ramps. Your tournament registration should specify which launch site to use, as organizers often coordinate with specific marinas to manage traffic and parking.
Arrive early on tournament day to secure parking and launch your boat without rushing. Marinas can get crowded during tournaments, so plan for a 30-minute to one-hour window before the official start time. If you are unfamiliar with the area, visit the marina the day before to scout parking and launch procedures.
Weigh-In and Awards
The weigh-in is typically held at the tournament's host marina or a central location in Sturgeon Bay, usually in late afternoon. Bring your catch in a cooler or livewell to keep fish alive and in good condition. Fish are weighed individually or as a total catch weight, depending on tournament rules—confirm this when you register.
Awards usually go to the top three to five teams, with prizes for largest individual fish as well. Prize money or gift certificates are distributed at the weigh-in, and results are often posted online afterward. The weigh-in is also a social event where anglers gather, share stories, and build community around the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own boat to fish the Sturgeon Bay Bass Open?
Most tournaments require a boat, but some allow solo anglers to be paired with a partner by the organizer. Check with the tournament host when you register to learn whether pairing is available or if you must bring your own boat or find a partner.
What is the entry fee for the tournament?
Entry fees vary by year and organizer. Contact the tournament host directly for current pricing. Fees typically range based on whether you are fishing as an individual or team, and some tournaments offer discounts for early registration.
Can I fish the Sturgeon Bay Bass Open if I am new to tournament fishing?
Yes. While some anglers are experienced competitors, tournaments welcome newer participants. Many local clubs use tournaments to build community and introduce people to competitive fishing. Start by contacting the organizer to learn about the format and any beginner-friendly options.
What Wisconsin fishing license do I need?
You need a valid Wisconsin fishing license to participate. A one-day or annual license is available through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at local bait and tackle shops. Confirm current license requirements with the tournament organizer when you register.
What if the weather is bad on tournament day?
Most tournaments proceed unless conditions are unsafe for boats. High winds or severe storms may delay the start or shorten the fishing window, but cancellations are rare. Check with the organizer the morning of the event for any weather-related updates or changes to the schedule.