Anglers are gearing up for the 49th Annual Dakota Anglers Walleye Tournament, a longtime regional fishing tradition being held June 6-7 on the Pipestem Reservoir.

Since 1977, the tournament has brought fishing enthusiasts together each year for competitive action, camaraderie, and prizes. The event is a two-day catch-and-release tournament featuring a live weigh-in format.

Tournament officials announced that beginning in 2022, the competition shifted to a walleye-only format. Teams are now allowed to weigh five walleyes, with final standings determined by total walleye weight.

The tournament features two-person teams and payouts through 20th place based on a full 76-team field.

Additional prizes include:

  • Cash prizes for heaviest walleye each day
  • Cash prizes for heaviest pike each day
  • Highest placing couple award
  • Most improved team award
  • Bonus prizes for heaviest perch, crappie, and smallmouth bass each day
  • Numerous door prizes and raffle opportunities