Summary Report of Results of Bass and Walleye Fishing Contests Held in Washington in 2015

A total of 163 bass fishing contests sponsored by 45 bass clubs or other organizations were held in 2015.  The bass contests were held on 48 different bodies of water with the majority of the contests being held on the Columbia River system.  A total of 17,110 bass were caught (Largemouth and Smallmouth bass).  The average weight per bass was 2.13 pounds.  The largest Largemouth Bass caught was 8.00 pounds and the largest Smallmouth Bass caught was 6.70 pounds.  The overall catch rate was 0.27 fish per hour and 99% of the bass caught were reported as having been released alive.  The total value of prizes awarded was estimated at $324,812.

A total of seven Walleye fishing contests were held in 2015 and were sponsored by seven Walleye clubs or other organizations.  The contests were held on six different bodies of water.  A total of 2,895 Walleye were caught.  The average weight per Walleye was 2.47 pounds.  The largest Walleye caught was 13.24 pounds.  The overall catch rate was 0.32 fish per hour and 96% of the Walleye caught were reported as having been released alive.  The total value of prizes awarded was estimated at $109,715