“We are very grateful that the top professional bass anglers in the country love the Saginaw Bay and our Bay City community.” said Tim Shelton, Director of Sports Tourism for Go Great Lakes Bay. “The anglers raved about the Saginaw Bay fishery in 2023 and wanted to return as soon as possible."
Bay City’s connection to professional bass fishing deepens this summer as the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour returns to the Saginaw Bay for the final stop of its 2025 season. From August 7 to 10, the top 66 anglers in the country will compete for the season title, an event watched by fishing fans nationwide and streamed across MLF platforms.
The championship brings national attention to Bay City, shining a spotlight on the community and the excitement building around it as the final stop of the season and the place where a new champion will be crowned.
A free public Watch Party is set for August 9 and 10 in Downtown Bay City’s Wenonah Park. Fans can expect big screen coverage of the action, live music, giveaways, autograph opportunities, and special appearances by the pro anglers themselves.
“We really want to enhance the opportunities for fans to enjoy the tournament and engage with the anglers,” said Magen Samyn, President & CEO of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. “This watch party will create a fun atmosphere for the whole community.”
When the Bass Pro Tour visited in 2023, it sparked strong interest in both the Saginaw Bay fishery and the Bay City community. The success of that event made a lasting impact and helped pave the way for this year’s championship return.
“This tournament showcases the best of Bay City,” Shelton added. “It puts our community on the national stage while bringing people together in a way that supports local business, tourism, and pride in the place we call home.”
“Bringing the championship back to Saginaw Bay is a reflection of what we’ve built here as a destination,” said Mike Kelly, Great Lakes Director, The Conservation Fund. “This tournament brings together sport, conservation, and community in a way that makes a real impact.”
Wenonah Park will transform into a gathering place for fans, families, and fishing enthusiasts to celebrate one of the biggest moments in the sport. Designed with fans in mind, the experience includes live tournament coverage on big screens, angler interviews, casting contests, giveaways, and live music that will create a festival-like atmosphere along the riverfront. Each afternoon, the first 100 attendees will receive free food and the first 50 kids will take home a rod and reel, with some experiencing the thrill of fishing for the very first time.
The Watch Party, taking place on August 9 & 10, offers a unique way for the community to experience a nationally televised sport up close, while Bay City takes the spotlight as the backdrop to one of the season’s most anticipated moments.
“This event creates an opportunity for businesses and organizations to get involved in something that brings visitors, energy, and attention to our community. Sponsorships help expand programming, enhance the experience for fans, and show the strength of local support on a national stage. It’s a chance to be part of a positive, visible moment that connects our downtown with a broader audience,” said Magen Samyn, President & CEO of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
To explore partnership opportunities, contact the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce at (989) 893-4567 or Lily West at lily@baycityarea.com.
