Between the opening of bass season on Memorial Day weekend and into September, Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac will host a couple dozen tournaments. Our lakes have a reputation as offering some of the best bass fishing in the state. Tournaments start between 6 and 8 in the morning. The sound of dozens of boats racing to the best fishing spots is a common summer wake up call. Tournaments  usually run until mid- afternoon. The number of boats can range between a dozen and a hundred.  This many visitors is a boon to Cadillac's economy as many stay overnight, eat at our restaurants, shop, buy gas and sporting equipment.

Depending on the tournament, anglers can keep between one and five fish  per boat. All fish are released at the end of the tournament. Virtually all fish survive the release. Points are deducted for fish that die or appear sick. You might enjoy watching a tournament weigh-in 

It is likely you will see boats casting lures under your dock and boats on lifts. That's where the fish are. Although it may be disturbing to see fishermen hovering close to your dock, they can legally do that as long as they don't trespass on your property.  Tournament rules prohibit drinking and you will find fishermen are friendly and courteous. They will usually tell you what techniques and baits are catching fish.