We have reviewed our processes, rules and regulations as well as the qualifying criteria for the championship. We need to recognize that a 1st Place Finish in our highly competitive tournament events is a monumental accomplishment.

Effective 2022, the following changes will be in effect:

1. Fishing Regulation Fish Limit

Anglers will be able to keep an eight (8) fish limit during any sanctioned NOWT event and only the best six (6 ) fish will be weighed at the station. These changes will allow for better resource management for our lakes and rivers.

2. Wildcard Spots in the NOWT Championship Tournament

The NOWT is excited to announce a new way that teams can qualify for the Northern Ontario Walleye Trail Championship Tournament. In addition to the 25 spots reserved for AOY leaders, the NOWT executive has decided to offer up to six additional wildcard spots for the championship. These wildcard spots will be awarded to a team that places first in one of the 6 sanctioned NOWT events each season. The qualification requirements are outlined below.

Qualification Process

  • First Place in one of the six sanctioned NOWT events for the season.
  • Must fish a minimum of three sanctioned NOWT events in the season.
  • Only one championship entry will be awarded to the winning team.
  • If both anglers fish at least 3 sanctioned events in the season, they must either fish together as a team or only one of the anglers can fish the championship under the awarded spot with another unqualified angler.
  • If only one of the two members of the team competes in three sanctioned events, the championship entry will be awarded only to the qualified angler. The qualified angler can then choose his or her partner according to NOWT championship rules.
  • If an angler qualifies for the championship both by winning a sanctioned event as well as earning enough points from the previous year’s AOY race to secure a top 25 spot, the angler will be required use the top 25 spot. The spot held for the winner of the sanctioned event will be eliminated.

We would encourage every angler to refer to our webpage and Facebook page for updates as they become available. For further information, please email NOWTBoard@gmail.com

Shane Turcotte
NOWT Board President