Forget what you think you know about fishing tournaments. Kayak fishermen are a different breed. Kayak fishing tournaments are different as well. What is it that makes them different? Are all levels of fishermen really welcome to join in on a kayak fishing tournament? The answer is absolutely yes.

As I said, kayak fishermen are a different breed. I cannot exactly tell you why but kayak fishing seems to draw good people. It truly is a community. People you first meet online then in person at a tournament suddenly become fishing partners and in many cases friends for life. There are several kayak fishing clubs in Tennessee. It is amazing to see the cooperation between these groups without one ounce of competition. Kayak fishing clubs want to see other like-minded groups succeed because they know it is good for the sport overall. Anglers from all groups in Tennessee frequently fish the tournaments hosted by other groups. We like helping each other out.

I have heard several anglers say that they just do not fish tournaments. They have their differing reasons for sure but I suspect the most common reason is that they have either heard stories or had a bad experience at a fishing tournament. I’ve experienced it myself when I used to fish power boat tournaments growing up. Accusations of cheating and anglers covering up their lures so as not to give away any secrets lead to an atmosphere that is off-putting to experienced tournament anglers and certainly to new comers.

To date, I have yet to experience any such negativity at a kayak fishing tournament. The kayak fishing community here in the state of Tennessee simply wouldn’t allow it. All the tournament directors in Tennessee work hard to make the tournaments more about fellowship than competition. Everyone leaves with a smile, the winners just have a little bit bigger smile on their face.

Now is the time. If you have been on the sidelines wondering if kayak fishing tournaments are right for you, come on out and see that the answer is yes. Check out this schedule of kayak fishing tournaments to be held in Tennessee this year. We are looking forward to meeting you and fishing with you. A kayak fishing tournament is really just an excuse for us all to get together, fish and tell stories. We promise that at least some of the stories are true.