Bay de Noc Takes Spotlight for Next Masters Walleye Circuit Qualifier in Gladstone, MI
Presented by: Lowrance
Ponca City, Oklahoma – May 30, 2025 – The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit (MWC) fifth qualifying event of the 2025 season will be held in Gladstone, Michigan, on the world-class waters of Bay de Noc. The event is scheduled for July 18–19, 2025 and promises intense competition and exciting action as top walleye anglers from across the country converge on this storied fishery.
Located along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, Bay de Noc is widely recognized as one of the Midwest’s premier walleye destinations. Known for its expansive structure, diverse water depths, and consistent production of trophy-sized fish, the bay offers a challenging and rewarding venue for tournament anglers.
Each team will be allowed to weigh five walleyes per day, with a limit of one fish per angler over 23 inches. While Bay de Noc holds plenty of big fish, success in this event will also hinge on targeting “unders” – walleyes measuring just under the 23-inch mark – to build the most competitive weights across both days of fishing. 
“The organizations of the Delta County Commerce Center, the City of Gladstone, and the Island Resort and Casino are proud to sponsor the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit tournament and welcome anglers from across the nation to experience our world-class fishery,” said Vickie Micheau, Executive Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce. “Events like this not only highlight the incredible natural resources we have here in our waterfront community, but also provide a strong economic boost to our local businesses—from hotels and restaurants to bait shops and gas stations. It’s a win for our community on every level.”
“We’ve had the privilege of working with the professional organizers of MWC events for decades, and we deeply value the strong partnership we’ve built over the years. Collaborating with them on this tournament has been both significant and gratifying.”
On tournament days take-offs will begin at 7:00 a.m. (EST) each morning from the North Shore Boat Launch with live weigh-ins to follow each afternoon beginning at 3:00 p.m. at Van Cleve Park. Spectators are encouraged to attend the free, family-friendly event to watch the action unfold in person.
For those unable to attend, live coverage will be available online at www.masterswalleyecircuit.com and through the official MWC Facebook page at facebook.com/MastersWalleyeCircuit.
Registration for this tournament on Bay de Noc out of Gladstone, Michigan closes on Monday, July 7, 2025. Teams that are interested in signing up should visit:
www.masterswalleyecircuit.com/registration
or call
Federation National Office at (580) 765-9031.
As part of the 2025 MWC season, anglers will vie for a coveted spot in the 2026 Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s World Walleye Championship in Devil’s Lake North Dakota. Teams can participate in as many events as they wish, with points earned in at least three qualifiers necessary for an invitation to the World Walleye Championship. MWC’s “Living the Dream” team, using points from four qualifiers throughout the regular season, will earn a sponsorship package valued up to $15,000 which includes a spot to compete in the National Team Championship and up to four paid MWC events.
Each MWC event has a lucrative payout which is based on the number of teams entered into that event. Overall payout is awarded to 20% of the field, providing more inspiration to sign up and join the fun. In addition to a hefty check, the first-place team also earns a $1,000 Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s National Team Championship (NTC) prize package including: paid entry, a travel stipend, team jerseys, and plaques. Additionally, Ranger Cup, Lowrance Recon Trolling Motor valued at $3599, the big-fish pot, option-pot and other sponsor bonuses will add thousands more for distribution among the field.
Under the umbrella of The Walleye Federation (TWF), the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit is North America’s longest running and undisputed leader in team walleye tournaments since 1984 and as an inductee into the freshwater fishing hall of fame, has set the standard for competitive walleye fishing for the past 40+ years. The 2025 schedule includes six qualifiers in six states, plus berths into the 2026 Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s MWC World Walleye Championship on Devils Lake, North Dakota.
Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s are looking forward to their 24th season as title sponsor of the Masters Walleye Circuit. Official sponsors include: Lowrance Electronics, Mercury Marine, and Ranger Boats. Associate sponsors include: The Walleye Federation, T-H Marine, Seakeeper and Salmo Java Coffee.
For more information, contact support@masterswalleyecircuit.com or call (580) 765-9031.
