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.

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.

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 Michigan Ice Open on Hamlin Lake tournament was to be held February 3-4, 2012, but due to poor ice conditions, it was cancelled for 2012. The date for 2013 is set for January 18 & 19.

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

Hamlin Hookers Ice Fishing Tournament
Hamlin Grocery sponsors the Hamlin Hookers Ice Fishing Tournament every February. Entry fee is $15, with a 100% pay out.

Pere Marquette Expeditions also sponsors the Gettin' Jiggy Ice Fishing Tournament February 25 and the Jist Anth'r Fishing Tournament March 10.

Free Fishing Weekends-No License Required
The State of Michigan offers two free fishing weekends every year, in February and June. In 2012, the weekends are February 18 & 19 and June 9 & 10. 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.

Ludington Offshore Fishing Classic on Lake Michigan
The biggest tournament of the summer is the Ludington Offshore Classic, with cash and prizes given away. The date for 2012 is July 19-22, and 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.