Walleye continue to be a great catch for Dunkirk and the Lake Erie region. Last week, the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club held an exciting and eventful Walleye Derby.

This week, the stakes are even higher.

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s National Walleye Tour, presented by Progressive, is making its return Thursday and Friday bringing elite anglers, national attention, and a boost to the local economy.

This two-day tournament will feature elite competition in one of the country’s most productive walleye fisheries. Anglers will launch at 7 each morning from the Chadwick Bay Marina with weigh-ins beginning at 3:15 p.m. The public is invited to bring chairs and tune in for all the action.

The marina boat launch will be closed to public on Thursday and Friday from 5 to 7 a.m. and also from 2 to 4 p.m. to help with tournament traffic. The Dunkirk Pier will also be closed to vehicle traffic on those two days.

“All of the 74 anglers and 74 co-anglers are excited to spend a few summer days in Dunkirk,” Tournament Director, Jeff Kelm said.

And, as noted recently in articles by our Outdoors writer Forrest Fisher, the action has been excellent. Last weekend’s events were no exception.

Dunkirk is living up to its reputation for reeling in walleyes. It is an event that makes sense — and deserves accolades — in the region.