The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s National Walleye Tour (NWT) is set to bring high stakes fishing action, national attention, and economic impact to Dunkirk, New York, on August 7–8, 2025. Hosted at the Dunkirk City Pier, the two-day tournament marks stop four of the tour and showcases one of the country’s premier walleye fisheries.

Each morning, 74 pro and 74 co-anglers will launch from Chadwick Bay Marina at 7 a.m., with public weigh-ins held at 3:15 p.m. The community is encouraged to bring chairs and experience the action up close.

To accommodate tournament operations, the marina boat launch will be closed to the public from 5–7 a.m. and 2–4 p.m. on both days. The Dunkirk Pier will also be closed to vehicle traffic during the event. 

“This tournament puts Dunkirk on the national map again,” said Tournament Director Jeff Kelm. “The Lake Erie migration will have these fish exactly where we need them, and the anglers are thrilled to be back after a memorable 2022 Championship here.”

Among those returning is 2022 champion John Hoyer, who called Dunkirk his “favorite walleye memory of all time.” Though this year’s tournament is limited to New York waters of Lake Erie, including connected rivers and creeks, Hoyer is eager to find success in new spots.

The event follows a successful stop in Alpena, Michigan, where Isaac Lakich claimed his first NWT Pro Division title with a two-day total of 60 pounds, 11 ounces. Conner Fox of Phelps, NY secured the Co-Angler win with 52 pounds, 7 ounces.

Dunkirk leaders say the event is a win for tourism.

“Lake Erie is one of the country’s top walleye destinations,” said Mayor Kate Wdowiasz. “This will be a great boost for our fishing community and our local businesses.”

“We’re proud to welcome these anglers and their families,” added City of Dunkirk Planning and Development Director Vince DeJoy. “It’s a great opportunity to introduce people to our city and encourage future visits.”

Fans can find event details, local dining options, launch logistics, and more on the city’s angler information page: cityofdunkirk.com/visitors/dunkirk_nwt_anglers.php.