Anglers from across the region will hit the waters of Lake Michigan this summer for the second annual South Shore Bass Open, taking place August 2–3 at the Hammond Marina. Presented by Horseshoe Casino Hammond, this exciting new tournament will have teams fishing the Indiana and Illinois stretches of Lake Michigan and its tributaries in pursuit of trophy smallmouth and largemouth bass.
“We’re thrilled to host the South Shore Bass Open alongside Hammond firefighter Dennis Banik,” said Jimmy Nelson, Director of Sports for the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority. “This event not only highlights Lake Michigan’s world-class fishing but also brings families and communities together for a fun, competitive weekend outdoors. We can’t wait to welcome anglers and spectators alike.”
Tournament entry fee is $400 per team until May 31, 2025, and $450 per team from June 1 - July 28, 2025. CalSag and Big Lake Bass Members get an additional $50 off per team entry.
The tournament kicks off on Friday, August 1 with a mandatory pre-tournament meeting and a hospitality reception at Horseshoe Casino Hammond. On Saturday morning, teams will launch from Hammond Marina to begin their two-day quest, with live weigh-ins on both Saturday and Sunday.
Top prize is $10,000, awarded to the team with the best total two-day catch (five fish per day). Additional prizes will be given for the largest bass caught each day and the heaviest overall five-fish limit.
Tournament organizer Dennis Banik shared his excitement: “We’re proud to bring this event back for a second year with support from Horseshoe Casino, the South Shore CVA, and the Hammond Marina. During the tournament, teams and spectators can enjoy more than just fishing—food and drink vendors, a live DJ, kids’ games, boat displays, vendor booths, and more will be available throughout the weekend. Bring the whole family for a great time on the lakeshore and watch some of the Midwest’s best anglers bring in their catches.”
For more information and full event details, visit: southshorebass.com. Questions? Contact Tournament Organizer Dennis Banik at 219-512-2924 or southshorebassopen@gmail.com.
Pennsylvania Attorney General's Cold Case Section, Erie investigators announce arrest of Brazil, IN man in 2002 rape, murder
Indy driver hospitalized after car - deer crash
Impaired driver taken to hospital then jail after crash
Gov. Braun announces plan for new, larger campground at McCormick’s Creek State Park
Governor Braun proclaims Indiana Rail Safety Week September 21-27
State unemployment rate remains below national average
Indiana weekly gas price update
Riverton Parke looks to continue momentum
Parke County Community Foundation awards funds for Ritz renovations
USDA announces 2026 and 2027 enrollment for key price and revenue safety net programs, first base acre increase in two decades
Gov. Braun continues to deliver on promise to keep local governments whole during gas tax holiday
Indiana state forests to offer open houses
Benefit ride for Alisha Reynolds on October 24
Former Roachdale Town Marshal sentenced to probation
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance announces 2027 summer internship program
