As fishing season unfolds in Southeast Saskatchewan, anglers eagerly await the Second Annual Rafferty Dam Walleye Tournament slated for the end of May. Ralph Smart, event organizer and proprietor of Prairie Pro Outfitters, recently divulged key details about the upcoming tournament on the Sun 102 Morning Show.

Scheduled for Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26, 2024, the tournament will follow a familiar format, commencing with a Friday night rules meeting followed by two days of intense fishing. Teams of two can register for the event at a fee of $600 per team, which encompasses entry into the Big Fish category with an additional $100 fee.

In addition to the thrill of the competition, the tournament is rooted in community support. Last year's event raised approximately $3000, which was allocated towards critical upgrades, including enhancements to the filleting shack and the installation of modern amenities such as flush toilets and sinks in the Marina washrooms.

The tournament promises an enticing prize pool, boasting a 100% payout structure, with 50% of the prize pool distributed each day. Participants can also look forward to a Saturday night roast beef banquet, thoughtfully included in the entry fee. Supplementary banquet tickets are available for $25 each. Prize money is allocated based on the percentage of paid entry fees, with the top prize soaring to $13,000 for a full field of 100 teams. Prize distributions are adjusted proportionately for fewer participating teams, ensuring fairness across the board.

Last Year's Winners

To register for the event, participants can either mail their registration forms to The Dam Store or submit them electronically via email or e-transfer. While last-minute entries with cash payments are accepted at the rules meeting on Friday night, all other entries must be paid in advance. Furthermore, both team members must sign the entry form before the tournament commences.

Camping facilities are conveniently available at Mainprize Regional Park, with designated sites reserved exclusively for tournament anglers. For further inquiries and comprehensive tournament information, participants can reach out to Ralph at 306-461-8353 or visit thedamstore.net.

As anticipation mounts for the Second Annual Rafferty Dam Walleye Tournament, anglers eagerly prepare for a weekend of camaraderie, spirited competition, and the opportunity to reel in the catch of a lifetime.