Fishermen compete at walleye tourney

On June 17 and 18, Boysen Reservoir was home to the 2017 Wyoming Walleye Stampede, bringing competitors in nearly 70 two-person teams from around Wyoming and other states to cast their lines and snag the biggest fish they can, and win some cash while they're at it. Boysen is only a small part of the Stampede event, which also sees tournaments at Glendo Reservoir and Pathfinder Reservoir. Among those competing at the Boysen event was Bill Mathews.

Mathews and his nephew Todd took first at the tournament in 2015, catching a total 37.5 pounds of fish in two days. The placing reeled in a $10,000 check for them, and Bill noted it was the first tournament he'd competed in for several years; it was Todd's asking that convinced him to sign up.

This year he wasn't as fortunate, taking 42nd with 5.65 pounds at the tournament on a team with his wife, Julie, his number one fishing buddy. But, Mathews said, one of the big reasons he enjoys fishing for walleye is the challenge of catching them consistently. He further explained the conditions need to be just right in terms of water level and temperature for walleye to come around.

Mathews added it can be easy to catch walleye when they're biting, but when they aren't it can simply be a matter of a person trying everything he or she has to catch one. At this year's tournament, he noted, the condition of the water was also a factor. It being muddied means the fish can't really see or smell the bait until it's practically in front of them.

Having fished in the area since he was a child, Mathews said he caught the walleye bug about 20 years ago, and the only lures he uses are jigs. He also releases the larger fish he catches, as those are typically the older females that spawn plenty of eggs and he wants to help ensure a thriving population.

As for the tournaments, Mathews said the money from them is nice - the $10,000 he got a couple years back helped pay for an air conditioner is his shop - but he also enjoys the excitement of winning and, of course, the bragging rights. He further added winning a competition makes him want to go back.

Though they took a low spot at the Wyoming Walleye Stampede, the Bill and Julie did take eighth place with 27.12 pounds at the Boysen competition of the Wyoming Walleye Circuit, May 6 and 7, and Julie brought home the Wonder Woman award for being the top placing female in fish weight.

As for those looking to compete in such tournaments, Mathews said they should be prepared to fish in any conditions, as the set dates are when they will happen. There is no changing the date due to adverse weather such as high winds or rain. Also, do some research on where you'll be fishing. Mathews said when it comes to walleye, they like structure and drop off areas where they can ambush their prey, so knowing where those spots are and setting up around them can help.

Mathews also said to be prepared to go up against some real expert fishermen, many who spend their time travelling and competing all over the country.