One Fish is All it Takes...
October 16 - November 29
The Walleye Derby
When trophy season arrives on Lake Erie, every cast has the potential to become the story you'll tell for years to come. The Walleye Derby gives anglers six incredible weeks to compete for a brand-new Warrior 238 boat package, cash prizes, and unforgettable memories because sometimes, one fish really is all it takes.
Big Fish, Bigger Dreams.
The Fall Walleye Derby
As the leaves turn and the waters cool, the giants come out to play. Join us for The Walleye Derby, an autumn angling event where big money excitement meets a community atmosphere.
We aren't just talking about bragging rights. This year, one lucky angler could literally drive away with the grand prize.
Grand Prize
A brand-new, fully-rigged Fishing Boat package
Cold Hard Cash
Massive payouts for the top finishers in multiple categories.
Built for Families & Every Angler
The best part of the derby isn't just the weigh-in; it's the stories told at the docks, the excitement of chasing your next personal best, and the memories made with your family and friends on the water.
Whether you're casting from shore, fishing from a kayak, or running offshore in search of a trophy, every registered angler has a chance to win.
Don't miss your chance to turn a simple cast into a life changing catch. Grab your gear, gather the family, and let’s see who reigns supreme on the water this fall.
Catch the Right Crowd
Become a Sponsor
Put your business in front of thousands of passionate Lake Erie anglers, boat owners, outdoor enthusiasts, and families throughout the fall fishing season. Become a sponsor of The Walleye Derby and connect your brand with one of the fastest growing Lake Erie fishing tournaments.
Hooked Yet?
Reel Memories. Reel Prizes. Really Big Fish.
Every angler has that one fish story... the one that still gets talked about around the campfire, at the marina, or over coffee before sunrise. The Walleye Derby is your chance to write the next one. Every fall, Lake Erie becomes the destination for anglers chasing trophy walleyes, drawing fishermen from across the country to one of the world's greatest walleye fisheries. Spend six incredible weeks fishing all U.S. waters of Lake Erie for the opportunity to land a trophy walleye, win unforgettable prizes, and make memories that last long after the season ends.
Built by anglers who know what makes fall fishing on Lake Erie so special, this isn't just another weekend walleye tournament. Created by a team with years of experience organizing successful Lake Erie fishing events, The Walleye Derby was designed to give anglers more opportunities to fish, more chances to win, and more reasons to spend time on the water. Fish when the conditions are right, compete from shore, a kayak, or a boat, and enjoy a welcoming event where first time anglers, seasoned pros, families, and fishing buddies all have the same chance to hook the fish that changes everything. With one affordable registration, you'll have six full weeks to fish when the bite is on instead of hoping everything comes together on a single weekend. After all... the next cast could be the cast.