The 36th Annual Clear Lake Spring Walleye Classic: A Tradition Built on Community, Conservation, and Cold-Water Bites

Each spring, as the last of the ice disappears and the wind once again sweeps across the open water, Clear Lake signals the start of something special. For 36 years, anglers from across Iowa and beyond have gathered on these storied waters for the Clear Lake Spring Walleye Classic—a tournament that has grown into far more than a competition. It’s a tradition, a reunion, and a celebration of one of Iowa’s most iconic fisheries.

Clear Lake: Iowa’s Legendary Walleye Factory

Clear Lake is unlike any other body of water in the state. As one of Iowa’s few natural lakes, its shallow basin, expansive flats, and wind-driven current create a unique environment that consistently produces quality walleyes. Early spring, in particular, has earned legendary status. Prespawn fish slide shallow, feeding windows are short but intense, and when the bite turns on, it can turn on in a hurry.

Generations of anglers have learned hard lessons here—about patience, boat control, reading wind, and trusting your instincts. Clear Lake doesn’t give up fish easily, but that challenge is exactly what makes success so rewarding.

The Clear Lake Fishing Club: 36 Years of Stewardship and Sportsmanship

At the heart of the Spring Walleye Classic is the Clear Lake Fishing Club (CLFC)—one of Iowa’s longest-running and most respected fishing organizations. Founded on the principles of sportsmanship, education, and conservation, the club has played a vital role in shaping competitive fishing on Clear Lake and throughout the region.

Over the decades, the CLFC has worked closely with the Iowa DNR, supported local conservation efforts, promoted ethical angling practices, and helped foster a welcoming environment for both seasoned tournament veterans and first-time competitors. Many anglers who now fish professionally—or guide on the lake—cut their teeth in club events just like this one.

The Spring Walleye Classic is a direct reflection of those values: competitive but respectful, challenging but fair, and rooted deeply in the community that surrounds the lake.

The Spring Walleye Classic: More Than a Tournament

Since its inception 36 years ago, the Clear Lake Spring Walleye Classic has become a true rite of spring. Long before social media, forward-facing sonar, or high-horsepower rigs, anglers were lining up at the ramp with paper maps, hand-tied jigs, and a deep understanding of the lake.

What hasn’t changed is the atmosphere. Cold mornings. Coffee steaming in the parking lot. Nervous jokes at takeoff. And the quiet intensity that sets in once lines hit the water.

This tournament has seen it all—bluebird days, sideways snow, roaring winds, and unforgettable weigh-ins. It has crowned champions, humbled favorites, and created stories that are still told at bait shops and boat ramps decades later.

A Tournament for Everyone

One of the defining characteristics of the Clear Lake Spring Walleye Classic is its accessibility. While the competition is serious, the event remains welcoming to anglers of all experience levels. It’s not uncommon to see multi-generation teams, longtime friends fishing together for the first time in years, or newcomers stepping into tournament fishing for the first time.

That inclusive spirit is intentional. The Clear Lake Fishing Club has always believed that tournaments should grow the sport, not gatekeep it—and the Spring Walleye Classic continues to embody that philosophy.

Carrying the Tradition Forward

As fishing technology evolves and techniques change, the heart of the Clear Lake Spring Walleye Classic remains the same. It’s about respecting the resource, honoring the history, and challenging yourself against both the fish and the conditions.

The 36th running of this event isn’t just another number—it’s a milestone that represents decades of dedication from volunteers, club members, sponsors, and anglers who love Clear Lake and everything it stands for.

When boats idle out at sunrise this spring, they’ll be carrying more than rods and tackle. They’ll be carrying 36 years of tradition—and the shared hope that this is the year everything comes together.

Good luck to all competitors. Fish hard. Fish fair. And welcome to spring on Clear Lake.