It's pretty common knowledge here in northern Michigan that we have great ice fishing, but that asset is getting some national recognition for the second year in a row as the
North American Ice Fishing Circuit Ludington Open Qualifier is held in, where else, Ludington.
The open qualifier took place for the first time last year, and brings not only professional fishermen but plenty of local participants to the shores of Hamlin Lake Jan. 14-16, with competitions and events for children and adults.
Megan Payment, marketing and events coordinator for the Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, is one of the tournament's organizers, and says last year's success played a big role in the plans for this year.
"Our first attempt, in 2010, was overwhelmingly successful. The tournament not only introduced visitors to our community but also to what a great fishery we have," she says.
The two co-title sponsors this year are the Sportsman's Restaurant & Irish Pub and Hamlin Grocery, both in Ludington.
Tournament participants are going to be welcomed Friday, Jan. 14 with a social hour, opening seminar, and kick-off party. Saturday sees more events, including an Ice Breaker Chili Cook-Off, as well as the kids' ice camp. Sunday is the competition event, which is an open qualifier for the North American Ice Fishing Circuit. Weigh-in will be held around 3 p.m.
Payment says there's no doubt the tournament has a big impact on the Ludington local economy.
"Ultimately, the tournament positively impacted our community not only in morale but economically. Surveys indicated that the teams spent approximately $11,150 after the ice initially froze, $10,000 during open water months, and $22,400 during the tournament week and weekend," she says.
This year should be equally positive for the area, as the event gains in popularity and participation.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Megan Payment, Ludington Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
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