Wayne Butz of Abrams, Wis., and Joe Sommers of Stevens Point, Wis., captured the 2024 Masters Walleye Circuit World Walleye Championship in September on Lake Huron in Alpena. (Masters Walleye Circuit photo)

GLADSTONE — The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit Qualifier comes to Gladstone next week, marking a significant event for both the community and competitive fishing enthusiasts.

It’s organized in partnership with and sponsored by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Gladstone, Hannahville Indian Community, the Bays de Noc Sportsfishermen, and Visit Escanaba.

The televised catch-and-release fishing tournament is expected to draw professional anglers, media attention and economic benefits.

Anglers are released at 7 a.m. Eastern time Friday, and again Saturday, July 19, from Gladstone’s Van Cleve Park boat launch, 1224 Lake Shore Drive. They return back to the launch at the end of each day to weigh the day’s catch.

Spectators are encouraged to attend the free, family-friendly event daily at 3 p.m. Eastern time as each two-person team showcases their fish basket live on stage in Van Cleve Park.

The event is limited to Michigan waters and emphasizes “catch and release” conservation, with the MWC staff members and Great Lakes Sportsfishermen managing fish care and release. Each team is limited to weighing only five walleye each day. Each fish must be 15 inches in length or greater, with only one fish over 23 inches allowed per angler.

“We are proud to sponsor the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit tournament and welcome anglers from across the nation to experience our world-class fishery,” said Vickie Micheau, executive director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce. “Events like this not only highlight the incredible natural resources we have here in our waterfront community but also provide a strong economic boost to our local businesses — from hotels and restaurants to bait shops and gas stations. It’s a win for our community on every level.”

“We’ve had the privilege of working with the professional organizers of MWC events for decades, and we deeply value the strong partnership we’ve built over the years. Collaborating with them on this tournament has been both significant and gratifying.”

Located along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, Bay de Noc is widely recognized as one of the Midwest’s premier walleye destinations. Known for its expansive structure, diverse water depths, and consistent production of trophy-sized fish, the bay offers a challenging and rewarding venue for tournament anglers.

For those unable to attend, live coverage will be available online at masterswalleyecircuit.com and through the official MWC Facebook page at facebook.com/MastersWalleyeCircuit. It is note yet known when the event will be televised.