Ridgway Smallmouth Bass Tournament 2026: Win $10,000 While Saving Native Colorado Fish

The Ridgway Smallmouth Bass Fishing Tournament 2026 represents one of Colorado’s most unique fishing competitions where anglers can win substantial cash prizes while helping protect native fish populations. Expected to run from early July through mid-August 2026 at Ridgway State Park’s reservoir, this biennial event offers up to $20,000 in total prize money for removing invasive smallmouth bass from the 1,000-acre reservoir located in southwestern Colorado. Unlike traditional catch-and-release tournaments, this conservation-focused competition organized by Colorado Parks and Wildlife encourages unlimited harvest with no bag limits, making it an exceptional opportunity for both competitive anglers and conservation-minded fishermen to make a meaningful environmental impact while competing for significant rewards.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about participating in the 2026 tournament, including registration procedures, prize structures, proven fishing techniques, facility information, and essential regulations. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament angler or planning your first competitive fishing experience, understanding the unique conservation mission behind this event will help you maximize your success while contributing to Colorado’s aquatic ecosystem management efforts.

Table of Contents

What Makes the Ridgway Smallmouth Bass Tournament Unique

Conservation Through Competition

The Ridgway tournament stands apart from traditional bass fishing competitions because it’s designed as an invasive species removal program rather than a sport fishing event. Smallmouth bass were illegally introduced to Ridgway Reservoir and pose a serious threat to native fish species found nowhere else in the world.

Key Conservation Goals:

Protect Native Species: Prevent smallmouth bass from escaping into the Uncompahgre River downstream
Ecosystem Preservation: Safeguard endangered native fish including several endemic trout species
Population Suppression: Reduce aggressive predator populations that outcompete native species
Water Resource Protection: Maintain water quality and biological integrity for downstream users
Public Engagement: Educate anglers about invasive species impacts through hands-on participation

The tournament has proven remarkably successful. During the record-breaking 2022 event, anglers removed an impressive 5,500 smallmouth bass from the reservoir, with tournament champion Chase Nicholson personally harvesting 3,036 fish. Understanding these ethical fishing practices helps participants recognize the broader conservation value beyond personal competition.

Tournament Schedule and Important Dates for 2026

Expected Tournament Timeline

Based on the biennial schedule established in 2024, the 2026 Ridgway Smallmouth Bass Classic is anticipated to follow this timeframe:

Event Milestone	Anticipated Date/Time	Details
Tournament Start	Saturday, July 4, 2026, 7:00 AM	First fish counted from this moment
Registration Opens	July 4, 2026	No pre-registration required
Mid-Tournament Check	Late July 2026	Informal leaderboard updates
Final Fish Submission	Sunday, August 9, 2026, 6:00 PM	Absolute deadline for fish turn-in
Prize Distribution	Mid-August 2026	Winners announced and prizes awarded
Next Tournament	Summer 2028	Following the every-other-year schedule

Daily Fishing Schedule

Flexible Participation Advantages:

No daily time restrictions during tournament period
Fish any time between start and end dates
Multiple submission opportunities throughout tournament
Turn in catches at your convenience
No mandatory check-in times except tournament beginning and end

This flexible structure accommodates anglers with varying schedules, allowing weekend warriors and weekday anglers equal opportunity to compete.

Prize Structure and Cash Awards

Major Prize Categories for 2026

The tournament features multiple pathways to win cash prizes, ensuring participants at all skill levels have winning opportunities:

Primary Competition Prizes:

Placement	Prize Amount	Qualification
1st Place – Most Fish	$10,000	Highest total smallmouth bass count
2nd Place	$5,000	Second highest total catch
3rd Place	$1,000	Third highest total catch
Tagged Fish (3 total)	$1,000 each	Catch any of three specially tagged bass
Raffle Grand Prize	$500	Random drawing from all participants
Additional Raffle Prizes	$100 each (5 prizes)	Random drawings

Total Prize Pool: $20,000

Understanding the Raffle System

Every single fish you turn in equals one raffle entry, creating opportunities even if you’re not competing for top placement. This democratic prize structure means:

Casual anglers fishing one weekend can win
First-time tournament participants have equal raffle odds
Each additional fish increases your winning chances
First, second, and third place winners are excluded from raffle drawings
You can win regardless of total catch numbers

Strategic Insight: An angler who catches just five bass throughout the tournament has five chances to win $100-$500, making every fish valuable beyond the main competition.

Registration Process and Requirements

How to Register

The Ridgway tournament features a uniquely simple registration process:

Registration Method:

No advance registration required
Register when submitting your first fish
Registration occurs at the tournament freezer location
Complete registration card with each fish submission
Process takes approximately 5-10 minutes

What to Bring for Registration:

Valid Colorado fishing license (if 16 years or older)
Colorado State Parks pass (annual or daily)
Photo identification
Smallmouth bass (whole fish or heads)
Completed fish registration card

License and Permit Requirements

Mandatory Documentation:

Requirement	Who Needs It	Cost Range	Where to Purchase
Colorado Fishing License	Ages 16+	$36-$110 (varies by residency)	cpwshop.com or local vendors
State Parks Pass	All visitors	$10 daily / $80 annual	Park entrance or online
Tournament Registration	All participants	FREE	At fish submission location
Additional Stamps	Varies	Habitat stamp typically included	With license purchase

Youth Anglers: Those aged 15 and under fish completely free without requiring a license, though they still need a State Parks pass for vehicle entry. This makes the tournament an excellent family activity where younger participants can compete on equal footing with adults. For more details on licensing, visit this complete fishing license guide.

Daily vs. Annual Parks Pass Considerations

Cost-Benefit Analysis:

Daily Pass ($10): Best for single-day or weekend participants
Annual Pass ($80): Becomes cost-effective after 8 days of fishing
Tournament Duration: 37 days (over 5 weeks)
Break-Even Point: Fish 8+ days during tournament period

Recommendation: Serious competitors planning multiple fishing trips should invest in an annual pass, which also provides year-round access to all Colorado State Parks.

Tournament Rules and Regulations

Fish Submission Requirements

Acceptable Submissions:

Whole fish carcass (preferred for research purposes)
Fish head only (if keeping meat for consumption)
Must be smallmouth bass species only
No size restrictions or minimum lengths
Unlimited daily submissions allowed

Fish Handling Protocols:

Immediate Processing: Keep fish on ice or in live well until submission
Proper Identification: Ensure correct species identification before turning in
Documentation: Complete registration card for each submission batch
Bagging: Use provided bags at fish drop box location
Signature Required: Sign registration card to validate entry

Fish Drop Box Location and Access

Primary Submission Point:

Location: Next to fish cleaning station at Ridgway Reservoir boat ramp (28557 US-550, Ridgway, CO 81432)
Hours: Noon July 4 through 6:00 PM August 9, 2026
Access: 24/7 during tournament period
Facilities: Freezer storage, registration materials, instruction signage
Backup Information: Ridgway State Park Visitor’s Center and Montrose CPW Office (2300 S. Townsend Ave.)

What’s Provided at Drop Box:

Tournament freezer for storage
Registration cards and pens
Plastic bags for fish
Detailed submission instructions
Current tournament standings (updated periodically)

Species Restrictions and Regulations

Important Legal Considerations:

Smallmouth bass ONLY qualify for tournament
Other species may be caught and kept per Colorado Fishing Regulations
No bag or possession limits on smallmouth bass at Ridgway Reservoir
Cannot submit largemouth bass, spotted bass, or hybrid species
Proper species identification is participant’s responsibility

Smallmouth Bass Identification Features:

Bronze-green coloration (not bright green like largemouth)
Vertical bars along sides (not horizontal stripe)
Upper jaw doesn’t extend past eye
Connected dorsal fins
Typically smaller mouth opening than largemouth bass

Ridgway State Park Location and Access

Getting to Ridgway Reservoir

Physical Address: 28555 Highway 550, Ridgway, CO 81432

Directions from Major Cities:

Starting Point	Distance	Approximate Drive Time	Primary Route
Denver	305 miles	5.5 hours	I-70 W to US-550 S
Colorado Springs	270 miles	4.5 hours	US-24 W to US-50 W to US-550 S
Grand Junction	86 miles	1.5 hours	US-50 S to US-550 S
Durango	95 miles	2 hours	US-550 N
Montrose	20 miles	25 minutes	US-550 S

GPS Coordinates: 38.2229° N, 107.7345° W

Park Entrances:

Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Entrance: Main entrance with visitor center
Dutch Charlie Entrance: Best access to boat ramp and marina
Dallas Creek Entrance: River access and walk-in camping

Park Facilities and Amenities

Available Facilities:

Boat Launch: Four-lane paved ramp accommodating most recreational boats
Blue Heron Marina: Boat rentals, supplies, bait, and tackle
Fish Cleaning Station: Located near tournament drop box
Campgrounds: 253 sites including full hookup RV sites
Modern Restrooms: ADA-accessible facilities with showers
Picnic Areas: Covered and open sites throughout park
Swimming Beach: Designated swim area with lifeguards (seasonal)
Hiking Trails: Multiple trails with varying difficulty levels
Visitor Center: Information, maps, and educational displays

Camping Reservations:

Book online at cpwshop.com
Sites range from $30-$42 per night plus daily park fee
Full hookup, electric-only, and tent sites available
Three yurts available for rent year-round
Reservation highly recommended during tournament period

Proven Smallmouth Bass Fishing Techniques

Best Times to Fish During Tournament Period

Optimal Fishing Windows:

Daily Timing:

Early Morning (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Most productive period when bass feed aggressively in cooler temperatures
Late Evening (6:00 PM – Dark): Second-best window as bass move shallow to feed
Midday (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Slowest period; focus on deeper structure and shaded areas
Overcast Days: All-day fishing becomes more productive

Seasonal Patterns (July-August):

Early July: Post-spawn recovery; fish shallow to mid-depth structures
Mid-July through Early August: Peak summer pattern; focus on deeper water and early/late fishing
Late August: Pre-fall transition; increased feeding activity throughout day

Recommended Lures and Tackle

Top 10 Smallmouth Bass Lures for Ridgway:

Lure Type	Recommended Models	Conditions	Technique
Tubes	3-4″ green pumpkin, black/blue	All conditions, rocky areas	Drag along bottom, hop presentation
Jerkbaits	Rapala X-Rap, Megabass Vision 110	Clear water, cooler mornings	Erratic retrieve with pauses
Topwater Poppers	Rebel Pop-R, Heddon Tiny Torpedo	Calm mornings/evenings	Walk-the-dog or pop-and-pause
Crankbaits	Norman Deep Little N, Rapala DT series	Mid-depth structure	Steady retrieve, bouncing rocks
Drop Shot Rigs	Roboworm, Yamamoto finesse worms	Deep water, suspended fish	Vertical presentation
Spinnerbaits	3/8 oz white/chartreuse	Windy conditions, shallow flats	Steady retrieve near surface
Ned Rigs	Z-Man TRD on mushroom jig head	Tough conditions, pressured fish	Slow dragging on bottom
Swimbaits	Keitech Easy Shiner, Strike King Rage	Open water, active fish	Steady retrieve varying depths
Football Jigs	3/8-1/2 oz black/blue, brown	Deep rocky points, ledges	Drag and hop along bottom
Blade Baits	Silver Buddy, Heddon Sonar	Vertical jigging deep water	Lift-drop vertical presentation

Essential Tackle Setup:

Rod Selections:

Spinning: Medium-light to medium power, 6’6″-7’ length for finesse techniques
Baitcasting: Medium to medium-heavy power, 7’-7’6″ for power fishing

Line Recommendations:

Main Line: 10-15 lb braided line for sensitivity and strength
Leader: 6-10 lb fluorocarbon for finesse presentations in clear water
Heavy Applications: 15-20 lb fluorocarbon for jigs and larger baits

Location Strategies for Ridgway Reservoir

High-Percentage Areas:

Rocky Structure Zones:

Dam riprap and rocky shorelines
Boulder fields in 10-25 feet of water
Submerged rock piles and ledges
Points extending into deeper water

Creek Channel Areas:

Dallas Creek channel (northern section)
Channel bends and deeper pools
Submerged creek bed in 15-30 feet

Shallow Water Targets:

Early morning shoreline cruisers
Shallow flats adjacent to deep water
Boat docks and marina structures
Weed edges (limited vegetation)

Deep Water Summer Patterns:

Main lake points dropping to 25+ feet
Suspended fish over deep basins
Vertical structure in 20-40 foot range

Boat Access and Shore Fishing Options

Boat Launch Information

Dutch Charlie Boat Ramp Details:

Type: Four-lane concrete ramp
Capacity: Suitable for boats up to 25+ feet
Parking: Large trailer parking area
Fees: Included with State Parks pass
Hours: 24/7 access during tournament
Facilities: Nearby restrooms, fish cleaning station, marina

Mandatory Boat Inspection:
All watercraft must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species before launching. This includes:

Clean, drain, and dry inspection
Inspection station at boat ramp
Zero tolerance for zebra mussels, quagga mussels, other invasive species
Inspection typically takes 5-10 minutes
No additional fee for inspection

Shore Fishing Access Points

Productive Bank Fishing Locations:

Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Area:

Dam area accessible from shoreline
Rocky banks with deep water access
Limited casting room but good fish holding structure

Dallas Creek Area:

River inlet fishing opportunities
More accessible shoreline
Good early season concentration area

Dutch Charlie Shoreline:

Areas near boat ramp and marina
Fishing pier available (check seasonal availability)
Easier walking access

Bank Fishing Tips:

Arrive early for prime spots during busy weekends
Longer rods (7’+ spinning) help reach deeper water
Focus on dawn and dusk when bass move shallow
Bring portable chair and tackle storage

Safety Considerations and Best Practices

Weather and Environmental Factors

Summer Weather Challenges:

High Elevation: 6,800 feet above sea level
UV Exposure: Intense sun at altitude; 50+ SPF sunscreen essential
Afternoon Thunderstorms: Common in July-August; monitor weather closely
Temperature Swings: Cool mornings (50s-60s°F) to hot afternoons (80s-90s°F)
Lightning Risk: Leave water immediately when storms approach

Safety Equipment Checklist:

USCG-approved life jackets for all passengers
First aid kit with altitude sickness remedies
Fire extinguisher (required on boats)
Throwable flotation device
Weather radio or smartphone with alerts
Emergency whistle or horn
Adequate drinking water (1 gallon per person per day)

For comprehensive safety information, review these essential fishing safety guidelines.

Wildlife and Environmental Awareness

Bear Safety:

Black bears inhabit the area
Secure all food and fish waste properly
Never leave unattended coolers
Report bear sightings to park rangers

Aquatic Hazards:

Cold water temperatures even in summer
Sudden depth changes near dam
Submerged rocks and structure
Boat traffic in high-use areas

Tournament Strategy and Competition Tips

Maximizing Your Catch Numbers

Volume Fishing Approach:

Daily Catch Targets:

Beginner/Casual: 10-20 fish per full day
Intermediate: 30-50 fish per full day
Advanced/Competitive: 75-100+ fish per full day
Weekend Warrior: 50-100 fish total over 2-3 days

Efficiency Strategies:

Pattern Recognition: Once you find productive areas and techniques, maximize time there
Quick Processing: Efficient fish handling saves valuable fishing time
Pre-Tournament Scouting: Legal scouting before July 4 helps identify concentrations
Multiple Technique Rotation: Don’t commit to single method if it’s not producing
Time Management: Fish prime hours intensively; rest during slow midday periods

Solo vs. Team Approaches

Individual Competition Advantages:

Keep all fish for your personal count
Maximum flexibility in schedule and strategy
Lower costs (boat gas, lodging sharing not required)

Team/Partner Benefits:

Share boat and fuel expenses
Rotate fishing and boat operation duties
Cover more water with coordinated search patterns
Mutual motivation and safety backup

Note: Tournament rules specify individual winners, but nothing prevents friendly collaboration for learning and efficiency.

Multi-Day Tournament Planning

Week-by-Week Strategy:

Week 1 (July 4-10):

Scout various locations and patterns
Test different lure types and presentations
Establish baseline catch rates
Identify 3-5 high-percentage locations

Week 2-3 (July 11-24):

Focus on most productive patterns discovered
Increase fishing time during peak periods
Monitor weather patterns for optimal conditions
Make mid-tournament fish submissions

Week 4 (July 25-31):

Maximize fishing days as tournament progresses
Refine techniques that have proven most successful
Consider adapting to late-summer patterns

Final Week (August 1-9):

Fish intensively if competing for top prizes
Ensure all fish submitted before 6:00 PM deadline
Don’t wait until final day for major submissions

Accommodations and Lodging Options

On-Site Camping

Ridgway State Park Campgrounds:

Campground	Site Types	Amenities	Approximate Cost
Pa-Co-Chu-Puk	Full hookup, electric, tent	Showers, restrooms, dump station	$36-42/night + park fee
Dutch Charlie	Full hookup, electric	Modern facilities, near boat ramp	$36-42/night + park fee
Dallas Creek	Walk-in tent sites	Primitive, river access	$28-32/night + park fee
Elk Ridge	Electric sites	Standard amenities	$32-38/night + park fee

Camping Advantages:

Immediate water access for early morning fishing
Secure fish storage in camp
Cost-effective for extended tournament participation
Family-friendly atmosphere

Reservation Requirements:

Book well in advance (3-6 months recommended)
Peak summer season fills quickly
Online booking at cpwshop.com
Some first-come, first-served sites available

Nearby Towns and Hotels

Ridgway (4 miles north):

Multiple hotels, motels, and vacation rentals
Restaurants, grocery stores, tackle shops
Closest amenities to park

Montrose (20 miles north):

Full range of accommodations (budget to luxury)
Walmart, sporting goods stores for tackle resupply
Medical facilities and services
CPW office for tournament information

Ouray (14 miles south):

Historic town with scenic charm
Higher-end accommodations
Limited but quality dining options
Popular tourist destination (book early)

Processing Your Catch: Meat vs. Heads

Fish Utilization Options

Complete Carcass Donation:

Simplest submission method
CPW uses fish for research purposes
Some fish become raptor food at rehabilitation centers
Contributes to scientific understanding of population

Head-Only Submission (Meat Retention):

Keep edible portions for consumption
Must prepare meat according to Colorado regulations
Heads must include enough structure for verification
Bring cooler with ice for meat storage

Smallmouth Bass as Table Fare

Culinary Qualities:

Taste: Mild, sweet flavor similar to walleye
Texture: Firm, white, flaky meat
Preparation: Excellent fried, baked, or grilled
Yield: Roughly 30-40% meat-to-weight ratio

Preparation Recommendations:

Fillet immediately or keep on ice
Remove skin for best flavor (reduces muddy taste)
Smaller fish (10-14 inches) often taste best
Try beer-battered deep frying for classic preparation

Recipe Suggestion:
Pan-fried smallmouth with lemon butter: Coat fillets in seasoned flour, pan-fry in butter until golden (3-4 minutes per side), finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley.

Conservation Impact and Scientific Purpose

Why Smallmouth Bass Are Problematic in Colorado

Native Species Threats:

Smallmouth bass were illegally introduced to Ridgway Reservoir sometime after its 1987 completion. These aggressive predators pose multiple threats:

Direct Predation:

Consume native fish eggs and juveniles
Outcompete native species for food resources
Can eat fish up to 1/3 their own body length
Much more aggressive than native trout species

Reproductive Advantage:

Spawn multiple times per season in Colorado’s warm reservoirs
High survival rates for young bass
Rapid population growth without natural predators
Can establish self-sustaining populations in rivers

Downstream Escape Risk:
The Uncompahgre River flows from Ridgway Reservoir and supports several native and endangered fish species. If smallmouth bass populations escape into the river system, they could:

Spread to connected river systems (Green and Yampa Rivers)
Threaten Colorado pikeminnow (endangered)
Impact razorback sucker populations
Destabilize entire native fish communities

Tournament Effectiveness Data

Historical Removal Numbers:

Tournament Year	Total Bass Removed	Number of Anglers	Top Angler Catch
2022 (Record Year)	5,500	85+	3,036 (Chase Nicholson)
2023	2,800+	62	1,450+
2025 (10th Edition)	1,498	79	Not disclosed

Population Management Success:

Significant reductions in smallmouth density
Decreased average size (indicating pressure on population)
Reduced downstream escape incidents
Improved native fish recruitment in monitored areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to register before the tournament starts?

A: No, registration occurs when you submit your first fish at the tournament drop box. However, you’ll need a valid fishing license and State Parks pass before fishing begins.

Q: Can I fish from a float tube or kayak?

A: Yes, any watercraft is acceptable. All boats must pass aquatic nuisance species inspection before launching, regardless of type.

Q: What happens if I catch the most fish but didn’t register until late in the tournament?

A: Registration timing doesn’t matter for placement. All fish submitted with proper documentation during the tournament period count equally toward your total.

Q: Are there youth categories or family divisions?

A: The tournament features open competition without age divisions. However, youth 15 and under fish free without a license, making it very family-friendly.

Q: Can I turn in fish multiple times throughout the tournament?

A: Absolutely. You can make unlimited submissions at any time during tournament hours. Many competitors make weekly submissions.

Q: What should I do if I’m unsure whether I’ve caught a smallmouth bass?

A: When in doubt, take photos and consult with staff at the park visitor center or CPW Montrose office before submission. Only smallmouth bass qualify.

Q: Is there a minimum size requirement for submitted fish?

A: No minimum size exists. All smallmouth bass regardless of length qualify for tournament submission.

Q: Can out-of-state anglers participate?

A: Yes, non-residents are welcome and eligible for all prizes. You’ll need a non-resident Colorado fishing license (approximately $110 annually or $36 for 1-day).

Q: What if I catch a tagged fish worth $1,000?

A: Submit it exactly like any other fish. The tag will be noticed during processing, and you’ll be contacted about your prize.

Q: Are there any restrictions on fishing methods or techniques?

A: Standard Colorado fishing regulations apply. Rod-and-reel only (no nets or traps), single angler participation, legal lures and bait permitted.

Resources and Additional Information

Official Information Sources

Colorado Parks and Wildlife:

Website: cpw.state.co.us
Phone: (970) 626-5822 (Ridgway State Park)
Montrose CPW Office: (970) 252-6000
Tournament Updates: Check CPW event page for 2026 details

Fishing Regulations:

Annual regulations brochure available at cpw.state.co.us
License purchases: cpwshop.com or call 1-800-244-5613
Regulation updates posted before each season

Weather and Conditions:

NOAA Weather: weather.gov (enter Ridgway, CO)
Colorado Avalanche Information Center: avalanche.state.co.us (mountain weather)
Lake level information: Available at park visitor center

Local Fishing Resources

Tackle and Bait Shops:

Blue Heron Marina (on-site at park)
Montrose sporting goods stores
Ridgway local outdoor shops

Fishing Guides and Services:

Several local guides offer Ridgway Reservoir trips
Consider pre-tournament scouting trip with experienced guide
Guide services can provide pattern insights and location knowledge

Online Communities:

Colorado Fishing Facebook groups
FishExplorer.com Colorado forums
CPW fishing reports (updated periodically)

Making the Most of Your Tournament Experience

Beyond the Competition

Family Activities at Ridgway:
While you’re fishing the tournament, family members can enjoy:

Swimming at designated beach area
Hiking on multiple park trails
Wildlife viewing (eagles, ospreys, deer, elk)
Visiting nearby Ouray Hot Springs
Exploring historic Ridgway downtown
Scenic photography opportunities

Multi-Day Vacation Integration:
The tournament’s flexible structure allows combining serious competition with family vacation:

Fish intensively 2-3 days while family explores area
Take rest days for family activities
Return for final tournament weekend push
Enjoy southwestern Colorado’s recreational opportunities

Tournament Etiquette and Community

Respecting Fellow Anglers:

Maintain appropriate spacing from other boats
Share general location information (not exact spots)
Assist boaters in distress or emergency situations
Keep tournament freezer area clean and organized
Respect campground quiet hours

Leave No Trace Principles:

Pack out all trash and fishing line
Properly dispose of fish waste at cleaning station
Don’t disturb wildlife or nesting birds
Stay on designated trails and access points
Leave locations better than you found them

Conclusion: A Tournament with Purpose

The Ridgway Smallmouth Bass Fishing Tournament 2026 represents far more than typical competitive angling—it’s a critical conservation program where your participation directly protects Colorado’s native aquatic ecosystems. Whether you’re competing for the $10,000 top prize or simply enjoying a weekend of fishing while contributing to invasive species management, every bass removed makes a measurable difference.

The tournament’s generous prize structure, flexible schedule, and spectacular setting in the San Juan Mountains combine to create an unmatched fishing experience. From seasoned tournament professionals to families introducing children to competitive fishing, Ridgway offers something for everyone willing to help protect Colorado’s aquatic heritage.

Mark your calendar for July 4-August 9, 2026, and prepare to be part of Colorado’s most impactful fishing competition. Your next cast could land the tournament-winning fish while simultaneously protecting endangered species found nowhere else on Earth.

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