Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out - 2022 Professional Walleye Tournament
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2022
Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out
Professional Walleye Tournament
0
1
Table of Contents
General Information
Welcome Introduction 4&5
Schedule of Events 6
Tournament Payout Structure 7
Captains Meeting 8
Breakfast of Champions 8
Frequently Asked Questions 10
Awards / Side Bets / Bonus Prizes
Big Fish Friday 12 & 13
Garmin Bonus & New Navionics 15
Calcutta Options & NEW Addition 16 & 17
FeedMore WNY Drawing 18
SBVFD 50 / 50 Drawing 19
Restaurant Promotion Bonus 25
Highlights & Photographs
Tournament TOP 10’s 26 & 27
2022 Photograph Highlights 28 & 29
Major Announcements
Major Announcement #1 30 & 31
Major Announcement #2 33
Major Announcement #3 34 & 35
Rules & Registration / Information
Tournament Rules & Regulations 42 to 46
Team Registration Form (Tear out) 51 & 52
Weigh-in Process / Technology 53
Team Dress Requirements 54
Thank You 55
2
Hello Tournament Teams/Anglers,
I hope all is well and your looking forward to the 2022 Sunset Bay Walleye
Shoot Out. We have been busily building this year’s event , essentially right after
the close of last year. Our team works on the development of the tournament 365
days a year.
My staff and I are extremely excited to provide you with this newly designed
hard cover, updated master tournament book. This format will be the foundation
moving forward. Enclosed, is information on several new sponsors, new bonuses
and other new additions that will provide some exciting opportunities for each
team as well as each individual angler. We’re proud to include the details specific
to three (3) major announcements.
These additions will provide an opportunity for the 2022 Sunset Bay Walleye
Shoot Out to payout over $500,000.00 in cash and prizes.
The partnering sponsors for our event are truly first class and continue to
grow with us every year. Please visit them as often as you can and thank them for
being a part of the Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out. Yor support will continue to
provide them the opportunity to further enhance their participation.
3
I would like to take an opportunity to thank all of our volunteers within all
phases of our event. It truly takes an enormous amount of effort and our
volunteers are tireless in their support and contribution to the tournament being a
success. When you see them in their Tournament Official shirts, please say hello
and thank them for being there.
This tournament book also contains a complete list of rules, registration
form, team waiver and other information to layout your tournament strategy. For
additional information on launches, cottages and information on Sunset Bay,
please visit our website at www.walleyeshootout.com as well as our Facebook
page.
We wish your team a very enjoyable and successful 2022 Sunset Bay
Walleye Shootout.
Should you have any questions or comments on any of the enclosed
information, please feel free to contact me at any time. Thank you again, stay safe
& we look forward to seeing you soon.
Sincerely,
Capt. Don Ruppert
President – Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out
Direct: 716.435.4137 email: donaldjruppert@yahoo.com Website: www.walleyeshootout.com
4
Tournament Schedule
• It is required for at least one team member to
be registered by 7:00pm. The entire team is
Thursday, July 14th, 2022 encouraged to attend.
• Any other part of the day is open for your
Captains Meeting team.
• Team Pucks and Big Fish Zip Tie will be picked
up at the meeting as well along with our newly
expanded welcome buckets.
• All anglers encouraged to attend
• Big Fish Friday will begin at 6:00am and
conclude with cooler drop at 3:30 pm at our
Friday, July 15th , 2022 tent in front of Sunset Bay Beach Club
• Weigh In begins at 4:00 pm
Big Fish Friday • 40 Major Prize Pack Drawings right after
Big Fish Friday Weigh
• Friday evening is open time for your team
• There are No Boat checks
• Shot Gun start at 7:00 am
Saturday, July 16th , 2022 • Pier Head Return at 3:30 pm
• Cooler Drop Closes at 4:30 pm
Main Event • Live Weigh In Show at 5:00 pm
• Trophy Presentation / Stage Pictures
(polygraph interviews & tests will be begin at 7:00pm)
(polygraph interview & tests, completed by 10:30 am)
• Official-final results organized.
• 10:30 am to 12pm (noon) there will be a
Sunday, July 17th, 2022 complimentary- full brunch for the winning
teams @ Cabana Sam’s
• All prize money will be paid in cash during the
Breakfast of Champions breakfast
• Final pictures and videos
5
Payout Structure
MAIN EVENT - Saturday, July 16th, 2022 LARGEST WALLEYE - Saturday. July 16th, 2022
1st Place $25,000.00 1st Place $5,000.00
Championship Rings & Hats
Team placed Main Trophy Custom Take Home Trophy Team placed on Carved Walleye Custom Take Home Trophy
2nd Place $10,000.00 2nd Place $3,000.00
3rd Place $5,000.00 3rd Place $2,000.00
4th Place $3,000.00 4th Place $1,500.00
5th Place $2,000.00 5th Place $1,000.00
6th Place $1,900.00 6th Place $750.00
7th Place $1,800.00 7th Place $500.00
8th Place $1,700.00 8th Place $250.00
9th Place $1,600.00 BIG FISH FRIDAY Friday, July 15th, 2022
10th Place $1,500.00 1st Place CASH + ELITE Machine Bonus
Custom Take Home Trophy
11th Place $1,400.00 2nd Place CASH + ELITE Machine Bonus
12th Place $1,300.00 3rd Place CASH + ELITE Machine Bonus
13th Place $1,200.00 4 CASH
14th Place $1,100.00 5 CASH
15th Place $1,000.00 6 CASH
16th Place $900.00 7 CASH
17th Place $800.00 8 CASH
18th Place $700.00 9 CASH
19th Place $600.00 10 CASH
20th Place $500.00 11 CASH
6
Captains Meeting
The annual Captains meeting for this year’s tournament will be held on
Thursday, July 14th, 2022. This is a mandatory meeting; at least one (1)
member of each team must be registered by 7:00 pm
We do enforce a two (2) hour penalty for teams not present or late.
. Doors close at 7:00 pm (sharp)
Location: Sunset Bay Beach Club
1028 South Shore Drive
Irving, New York 14081
All anglers are welcome and encourage to attend; it’s a great event to
meet with other anglers; prepare for and enjoy the upcoming main event
weekend. Registration opens at 5:00 pm.
Breakfast of Champions
We are excited to continue this tradition and look forward to the
additional prizes and payouts that will be awarded this year. I am also excited to
announce that all teams and anglers are welcome to attend. The annual
breakfast buffet opens at 10:30am and continues till 12:30 pm. It is held at
Cabana Sam’s.
(It is not required for anglers to be present to win bonus prizes or receive payouts)
7
A M E R I C A ' S # 1 C H O I C E F O R
O U T B O A R D F I S H I N G B O A T S !
John Zimdahl – Sales Manager / j.zimdahl@collinsmarine.com / 716.875.6000
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FAQ How many anglers can we register per team? Each team can register from 2-6 anglers per team. Each angler is required to have a proper fishing license for the state of New York What is the registration cut off date? For teams returning that have fished the previous year, the registration cut-off date is May 1st, 2022 without jeopardizing the teams position. Is there a waiting list for new teams? No, with the overall length of the original waiting list, in fairness to all; our annual expansion spots are offered on a first registration basis. For new teams wishing to fish the event, we encourage teams to register as soon as possible. Where can I register? Checks and Money Orders / Mailed to: P.O. Box 359, Hamburg, New York 14075 Receipts will be sent upon entry processing along with official team number Where can I find the registration forms / paperwork? All forms required are included within this tournament book as well as on our tournament website: www.walleyeshootout.com What are the boundaries of the tournament? Our tournament provides an even playing field for the entire fleet; our official tournament waters are the New York waters of Lake Erie and the Upper Niagara River. Is Live-Bait allowed in the tournament? Yes, both live bait and artificial presentations are tournament legal. Is it better to have more anglers to use more rods? We enforce a maximum rod rule of nine (9) rods per team/boat regardless of how many anglers are aboard. Are polygraph tests used? Yes, we utilize pre-polygraph interviews and formal polygraph testing for both Big Fish Friday and Main Event portions of the tournament venue. 9
Come visit Anchor Marines NEW dedicated LUND Boat Show room at their headquarters on Grand Island. 10
Big Fish Friday
Our annual Big Fish Friday continues to grow every year; we are proud
to again have LOWES of Hamburg being the title sponsor for this portion
of the event.
Big Fish Friday (BFF) will be held on Friday, July 15th , 2022
• Boats can depart from any marina or port the morning of Big Fish Friday but must
return to the Cattaraugus Creek, Sunset Bay - New York by water only.
• You can depart your marina or port at any time; however, lines cannot be in the
water until 6:00 am.
• Your cooler must be in the Official “Cooler Line” by 3:30 pm Sharp! Located at the
Sunset Bay Beach Club Tournament K100 Tent front sand lot. (same location as the
Main Event), Tent and Signage will be clearly visible.
• Tournament officials and volunteers will transport your coolers from drop off location
to the weigh-in stage located on the beach.
• Only one (1) fish shall be presented in the cooler, no other walleyes or species
allowed in cooler. It is not up to tournament cooler handlers to identify properly
submitted coolers.
• Walleyes must be at least 26” to qualify for Big Fish Friday
• No loose ice or water baths allowed in cooler, bagged or block ice is acceptable.
• A maximum of up to nine (9) rods can be used at any time.
• New York Waters of Lake Erie and upper Niagara River are legal fishing waters.
• All New York State laws apply.
• All Fish weighed for Big Fish Friday will be gill clipped. For a fish that is to be
mounted, the fish will remain in the possession of tournament officials until
conclusion of the main event Saturday and then returned.
• No Fish caught on Friday can be utilized for Saturday
• No fish can be altered in any manner to increase its weight
• All BFF cash & prizes will be paid at the Breakfast of Champions, Sunday morning.
• The weigh in show will start at 4:00 pm (@ the main stage); at least one (1) member
of the team must be present to weigh in your fish. Coolers left unattended will be
forfeited and not weighed. Team pucks do not need to be presented/returned for Big
Fish Friday; these are for Saturday’s main event.
11NEW Addition to BFF
In addition to the payout structure of the Big Fish Friday segment of our
tournament. We are pleased to announce the additional prizes packages being
added to the awards presentation.
On behalf of Elite Machine & Design Inc., in addition to their
contirbution and participation of the Feed WNY donation, they are providing
an incredible prize package for the top three (3) positions of this year’s Big
Fish Friday.
In addition to the main cash payout of this section, the additional prizes
will be awarded.
1ST PLACE = $750.00 CASH BONUS
2ND PLACE = 4 Elite Rod Holder Package
3RD PLACE = 2 Elite Rod Holder Package
Please visit Elite Machine & Design Inc. or call Todd Wojciechowski and his
staff directly at 716.481.7431. or at www.elitemachinedesign.com Thank You !
1213
Garmin Bonus
GARMIN continues to lead the way in marine electronics and our
partnership with them continues to grow. Back again for the 2022 tournament, the
team with the highest total box weight of the main event with a fixed mounted
sonar or gps on their boat, will receive a cash bonus of
$500.00 Cash
NEW Navionics Bonus
FULL COASTAL COVERAGE AND MORE THAN 24,700 LAKES
Navionics provides detailed marine charts and lake maps for most chart-
plotter brands. Plus, daily updates are available with a one-year subscription. Learn
more at navionics.com. The top three (3) teams of the MAIN Event will receive a
state of the Navionics Chart/Mapping Package.
14Calcutta’s
We will again be offering our four (4) primary Calcutta options for each
team to consider. All Calcutta’s are optional and not required. You can fish 1, 2 , 3,
4 or none of the side bets listed. Completely optional for each team to decide.
1.) $250.00 Captains Choice Calcutta
2.) $100.00 Main Calcutta
3.) $50.00 Rookies Calcutta
4.) $100.00 Big Eye Calcutta
➢ #1 through #3 are Big Box Calcutta’s (total weight)
➢ #4 Largest Walleye Calcutta is for single largest fish (individual weight)
Art Wind & Jim Kuwik will again be collecting the Calcutta’s at the Captains meeting
All Calcutta’s pay 1st (50%), 2nd (30%) & 3rd (20%)
Calcutta’s can be paid at time of registration or at the Captains meeting
All Calcutta’s are paid in 100% Cash (US Funds)
1516
Feed More WNY Donation
We are proud to again be supporting the FeedMore WNY organization
by providing a raffle for several incredible prizes at this year’s Captains
meeting.
Each angler can bring a non-perishable donation to benefit those less
fortunate. Each angler will receive a ticket for our 2nd annual food drive prizes.
Mr. Todd Wojciechowski of Elite Machine Inc. is again providing another
spectacular prize for this great cause. Todd and his staff have joined us in
recent years in a significant way, providing even more growth and value to our
event. Please thank him for his support and visit Elite Machine to see some
incredible fishing equipment designs.
The Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out is also proud to support the
following organizations. Being able to give back to local communities drives us
to grow our event every year.
17Sunset Bay Fire Dept 50/50
Every year the men and women of the Sunset Bay Volunteer Fire
Department welcomes our anglers and stand at the ready to ensure that is
everyone is safe and has an enjoyable tournament. We can’t thank them enough
as they have been with us since our inception. We are excited to offer a 50/50
on behalf of the fire department. This too will be at the Captains meeting;
please support them by purchasing tickets!
18Town of Hanover Boat Launch / 1053 West Erie Street / Irving / NY 14081 – 716.934.2273
Hanover Town Boat Launch
• Four (4) extremely well organized boat launches (quick in and out layout)
• The most efficient parking (boat/trailers) system within Sunset Bay
• “State of the Art” fish cleaning facility, best on the south shore of Lake Erie
• Well kept / clean restrooms
• Convenient vending machine and Ice availability
• Picnic tables and extremely well maintained grounds
• Knowledgable staff and assistance
• Closest facility as you enter into Sunset Bay – Easy access
Hidden Harbor Marina / 916 Exchange Street / Irving / NY 14081 – 716.934.4315
We are pleased to announce the expansion and assistance provided by Hidden Harbor Marina.
Located mid-stream on the Catt. They provide many valuable, friendly services.
They are the only marina on the Cattarugus Creek that offer fuel and full attendant service
• Great Launch Ramp / Parking
• Seasonal Slips
• Transient Slips & Dry Dockage
• Marine Store & Supplies
• Mechanical Services
• Safe and Secure Facility
19Casino Location - 11099 Route 5, Irving, New York 14081 / 1-800-421-2464 20
John Zimdahl – Sales Manager / j.zimdahl@collinsmarine.com / 716.875.6000 21
720 Fairmount Ave., Jamestown, NY 14701 / 716.296.0512 22
Titled Sponsors 23
Restaurant Promotion Bonus
Once your team is registered and assigned an official team number; visit
each of the participating restaurants and sign the Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out
tournament book to qualify for your chance at up to
$20,000.00
24Tournament Top 10’s
2021(Nw – No weight / lost to weather) 2020
No. Captain Team Name Wt. No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Kim Skoczylas Eye Candy Nw 1 Joe Jemiolo Boston Tangler 30.31
2 Mike Miller DB Marine 1 Nw 2 Ron Duliba Dances with Fish 26.18
3 Brian Davis Black Cloud Nw 3 Denny Kenny One Less 25.31
4 Roger Vorhees Dragin Lures Nw 4 Brain Davis Black Cloud 23.88
5 David Erker Just One More Nw 5 Jim Brauer Bend a Rod 23.63
6 Dennis Young Your Eyes Only Nw 6 Greg Marzec G-Men 23.06
7 Michael Gordo Gordys Dream Nw 7 Mike Miller American Deck 22.50
8 Ahren Niedzwicki Nudz-Eyes Nw 8 Dan Benedicts Money Eyes 22.48
9 Ashton Laird Lime Lake Nw 9 Juan Delarosa Magic Juan 22.14
10 Nick Schmitt Under Dog Nw 10 Ron Kucinski Got Glizdas 21.28
2019 2018
No. Captain Team Name Wt. No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Mark Lewendowski Reel mania 46.08 1 Jeff Bognar Mid River / NSG 43.87
2 Paul Earl Krazy Eyes 45.93 2 Brandon Moody Green Reaper 40.76
3 Jeff Henderson Fishin Technician 45.65 3 Ron Duliba Dance w Fishes 40.13
4 Randy Jaroszewski Ice Breaker 45.54 4 Tom Miranda Pole Dancer 39.73
5 Tom Slawatycki Fish Knotzee 45.14 5 Al Peterson OK1 More 39.69
6 Matt Boumeester Lord of the Fins 45.14 6 Nick Schmidt Under Dog 39.47
7 Bob Rustowicz Forever Fishin 42.99 7 Shawn Barrett Pearl Jack 38.11
8 John Lignos Current Obsession 42.56 8 Mike Fletcher Dialed In 37.61
9 Dan Debenedictis Money Eyes 42.52 9 Tom Means Willow Creeker 35.79
10 Corey Evans Envious 42.22 10 Pete Smith Reely Jerkin It 35.70
2017
No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Craig Sleeman Midnight Express 42.90
2 Bob Henton Connor Logging 40.80
3 Paul Earl Fish Weiser 39.95
4 Mike Fletcher Yaleye Fish Lures 39.78
5 Randy Jaroszewski Ice Breaker 36.59
6 Bob Rustowicz Forever Fishing 34.81
7 Rob Oram Eye Con 34.61
8 Bud Marsh Kra-Mar Fishing 34.52
9 Chuck Simpson Gypsy Diver 34.23
10 Jim Skoczylas Fish Killer 34.04
252016 2015
No. Captain Team Name Wt. No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Randy Jaroszewski Ice Breaker 46.03 1 Jeff Jarzynski The Pirate 47.85
2 Gary Marcinkowski Meals on Reels 42.90 2 Craig Sleeman Midnight Express 46.08
3 Jim Steel Dream Catcher 42.73 3 Dan Bognar One More 45.21
4 Chuck Stone Trolling Stones 40.40 4 Mike Fletcher Dialed In 44.99
5 Damian Kuzmin Bay Rat Lures 39.98 5 Mark Lewendowski Reel Mania 44.68
6 Joe Jemiolo Boston Tangler 38.77 6 Jim Steel Dream Catcher 44.37
7 Mark Lewendowski Reel Mania 38.52 7 Scott Addison Fishtician 43.96
8 Don Skellie Knee Deep 38.29 8 Don Skellie Knee Deep 43.76
9 John Ferdinand Whats Up Doc’ 38.24 9 Yvan Charrois Get It Wet 43.05
10 Ron Duliba Dances with Fishes 37.46 10 Jeff Bognar Mid River 42.42
2014 2013
No. Captain Team Name Wt. No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Larry Johnson Ranger621 47.72 1 Jeff Jarzynski The Pirate 49.83
2 Craig Sleeman Midnight Express 46.51 2 Scott Addison Fishtoician 49.72
3 Unavailable Mac Attack 45.73 3 Jeff Bognar Bad JuJu 49.66
4 David Malloy Erie Tracker 45.68 4 Bob Rustowicz Forever Fishin 47.69
5 Chuck Stone Trolling Stones 43.71 5 Paul Earl Fish Weiser 47.29
6 Al Peterson OK 1 More 42.88 6 Pete Alex Vision Quest 46.96
7 Tom Leaman Lunder 42.20 7 Al Raro South Towner 46.77
8 Unavailable Spoon Fed 41.96 8 Greg Marzec G-Men 45.59
9 Scott Addison Fishtician 41.29 9 Ralph Edes Rock n Reel 44.99
10 Tom Means Willow Creeker 41.02 10 Jim Dolly Jr. Strictly Fishin 44.40
2012 2004
No. Captain Team Name Wt. No. Captain Team Name Wt.
1 Jeff Bognar Mid River / NSG 32.61 1 Tim Fedeson The Fireman 10.63
CURRENT TOURNAMENT RECORDS :
➢ Heaviest Box – Jeff Jarzynski / The Pirate - 49.83 lbs (2013)
➢ Largest Walleye (Main Event) – Corey Evans – 11.16 lbs
➢ Most Championship Wins – Jeff Bognar / Mid River Marine & NSG
(2) (2012/2018)
(Mid River Marine / Nicks Sporting Goods Team are currently an active team)
2627
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Major Announcement #1
The Friday Nite Prize Pack Give-Away is a hugely popular part of the
tournament venue. We are excited to announce this incredible addition to the
40 prize packs being provided by our great partners. This is all included in your
tournament entry.
As always, please visit all of our sponsors often and thank them for
supporting the Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out.
Introducing the:
2022 Motor Madness Give-Away
The grand finale, three (3) prize packs will be :
PRIZE #38 – Anchor Marine and Mercury Marine will be providing 8.0
HP Four stroke trolling motor.
29PRIZE #39 – Lime Lake Marine and Suzuki Outboard Motors are
proud to provide a 9.9 HP Four stroke trolling motor.
PRIZE #40 – Our GRAND FINALE drawing for this
year is from Yamaha Outboards and Collins Marine. They will be providing a
15HP Four stroke trolling motor
30Camping World & Outdoors have been a major sponosr for many years. They are again back supporting our tournament in even a larger capacity. As with previous years, Gander RV has displayed several great models of their recreational vehicles. This year they will have a new ‘toy-hauler’ on diplay, which combines the great ammentities of an RV, coupled with the ability to carry your offroad vehicles, jet skis and even small boats. Stop and see their great gear. 31
Major Announcement # 2
New Calcutta Option
A request for several seasons from many teams within the fleet, is to offer a High
Dollar Calcutta option in addition to the great Calcutta’s already provided. For the 2022
tournament we are proud to answer this request. As with all Calcutta’s, this is an optional
opportunity and is not required. These are extra value opportunities provided for each team
to consider. This Calcutta option is open to all and is on a first filled/paid basis; it is in
memory and honor of Billy Baumgartner. Registration is currently open.
INTRODUCING
the Bill “ BIG WAVE” Baumgartner Calcutta
“Forever remembering you as a life-long friend & family member, your tireless contribution and
support of our tournament will be remembered by all and the generations ahead will hear your name
ring” .
$1,000.00 Buy In Per Team
20 teams maximum
As with all of our Calcutta’s, we will pay out Top 3 Places
1st Place = $10,000.00 Plus Crystal Trophy
2nd Place = $ 6,000.00
3rd Place = $ 4,000.00
32Major Announcement # 3
NEW - In Tournament Series
This is a major announcement that is very exciting for both the tournament
anglers as well as our partnering sponsors at AlumaCraft Boats and Lime Lake
Marine.
For the first time in professional walleye fishing, we are providing at no
additional charge; an In-Tournament Series which consists of the Big Fish Friday,
Main Event Saturday and the Largest Walleye of the Main Event. This too, is at no
charge and included in your entry of Big Fish Friday and the Main Event.
The scoring is simple and straight forward. These three (3) weights are
collectively added together. Heaviest total weight of the three, wins the series. An
example of the scoring is below:
Team: Lucky Duck Sportfishing Weight
Big Fish Friday Weight 7.97 lbs
Main Event Box Weight 31.91 lbs
Largest Walleye of Main Event Box 9.13 lbs.
Total Weight 49.01 lbs
33(above picture does not represent final model, options and equipment)
Thanks to AlumaCraft Boats and Lime Lake Marine the team with the
winning (heaviest) combined weight of the In-Series will win a brand new
AlumaCraft Boat and Trailer package.
3435
High Quality Boat & Vehicle Graphics and Wraps 716.877.7446
4480 Camp Road, Hamburg, New York 14075 / 716.649.7626
6960 West Ridge Road, Fairview, PA 16415 / 1.800.922.1219
3637
5360 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg, New York 14075 38
The Tackle Box
We are extremely proud to have partnered with some of the premier lure
and bait companies in the industry. Please visit the following groups for all your
tackle & equipment needs.
39The Boat Box
Properly outfitting your boat for game day is one of the most critical
components of your success. Utilizing quality, state of the art equipment
increases your confidence and overall performance. We are proud to be aligned
with the best equipment manufacturers in professional walleye fishing. Please
visit our partners often.
4041
Tournament Rules & Regs
It is the responsibility of each team Captain and crew to understand and abide by all tournament
rules. Please note the updated rules as they are noted in RED lettering.
1.) Tournament hours will be from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, Saturday July 16. 2022
(Foul weather date will be Sunday, July 17th)
• There will be a shot-gun start from Sunset Bay, 300 yards west of the pier head. There will be a
starting location device or boat (to be announced at the Captains meeting). The shot-gun start will be
at 7:00 am sharp. If you depart prior to our official shot gun start at 7:00 am, you will be immediately
disqualified.
2.) The official fishing tournament boundary waters for the tournament are New York State waters of Lake Erie
and Upper Niagara River only.
3.) Each boat will utilize a maximum of up to nine (9) rod/reels per boat. Boats must have a minimum of two (2)
to a maximum (6) anglers per boat.
4.) All walleye entered must be caught by hook, line, rod and reel on legal angling tackle.
5.) All walleyes must be a minimum length of 22”. Any fish presented under 22” in length will be removed from
the box weight. The remaining legal fish will be weighed as the total box weight. There will be a .500 lb (one
half pound) penalty assessed per fish that is under the legal measurement of 22”. This is automatically
adjusted within the advanced scale system utilized for our weigh- in.
6.) Two Team number signs will be provided (port and starboard); it is the team Captains responsibility to
clearly post them visible to other tournament officials and tournament boats.
7.) Each Team can present up to six (6) walleyes in their box. The largest being identified with the provided ZIP-
TIE. The only species allowed in the box are walleyes.
• Any more than six walleyes or any other species in the box will immediately disqualify the box and
the team for the event. The fish will be presented in a cooler with bagged or blocked ice only. No
loose ice or water baths allowed.
8.) The Team “Puck” and “Zip-Tie” will be issued at the Captains meeting. There are no boat checks the
morning of the main event. Simply organize your morning and proceed to the pier heads for a 7:00 shot gun
start. The puck must be returned to tournament officials when you drop your fish cooler at our drop off
station. Coolers will not be accepted without the team puck returned. Teams not weighing fish are still
required to return the puck to tournament officials.
9.) Tournament boats cannot make contact with each other at any point or time once your boat departs from
its dock/launch to start the day. No boat is allowed to float or pass equipment, fish, bait, ice, coolers, food
or drink between them; at any point throughout the day beginning at 5:30am. This includes leaving the
Cattaraugus Creek, on the lake during travel or fishing, or returning back up the Cattaraugus Creek. Any
noted or witnessed contact between boats will result in an immediate disqualification for any/all boats
involved.
4210.) There is a NO-stop fishing time, however, your boat must return past the pier head check point NO LATER
than 3:30 PM Sharp! Tournament officials will be documenting each team/boat time of return at the pier
heads.
11.) All fees (example: slip fees, launch fees, lodging fees etc.) are the responsibility of each team
12.) All boats must depart and return with their days catch under their own power with full team. Jumping boats
or transferring coolers is not allowed.
13.) The tournament is considered a NO-COMMUNICATION event for the MAIN EVENT only. This means no
communication can be conducted with anyone to enhance your fishing opportunity. The no communication
rule begins at 5:30 am and concludes at 3:30 pm on the day the main event is held.
14.) Each team presenting a cooler on stage for weigh-in must be in matching team T-shirts or team jerseys.
Team jerseys are strongly recommended. Should team T-shirts or Jerseys not be worn by teams presenting
their cooler; a generic shirt will be provided by tournament officials and required for temporary use while
weighing in fish. This is required for both Big Fish Friday and Main Event Saturday
• No Ripped, bloody t-shirts, tank-tops or cut off sweat pants etc. are allowed.
• No smoking is allowed on stage.
• Any use of profanity, unsportsmanlike conduct, or vulgarity will result in immediate disqualification.
• No alcohol is allowed on stage during weigh in show. It is a stipulation of sponsorship and television
contracts.
15.) Polygraph Testing
Polygraph testing can be utilized and implemented for winning teams within the tournament. All teams
landing within the any payout structure can be interviewed and/or polygraphed.
The Captain of each team MUST be able to take the interview and or polygraph test the evening the main
event is concluded.
16.) Any abuse, verbal or otherwise, directed towards the tournament committee members, its volunteers or
supporting staff will result in immediate disqualification. NO Exceptions
17.) Any/All, New York State and Federal income taxes forthcoming of payouts and prizes received from the
Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out are the sole responsibility of the recipient team and teammates. Sunset Bay
tournament personnel, sponsors and volunteers are not liable or responsible for any taxes due for any
groups, persons or teams receiving income from our event.
18.) All Cash payouts are based on a fully registered and paid fleet of 200 boats.
19.) The Sunset Bay Walleye Shootout allows its scores to be utilized for various series formats. Our
rules/regulations are specific to the Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out only. The Sunset Bay Walleye Shootout is
not liable or accountable for any/all decisions made within final judgments of any series or other events.
20.) Once fish coolers are dropped off and in the possession of tournament officials, they will be sealed and
labeled. Tournament coolers cannot be re-opened by the team from this point on. Coolers will be opened by
fish handlers at the weigh in only. If a team attempts to access any cooler at anytime they will be
immediately disqualified.
4321.) Teams cannot use recreational fireworks, pyrotechnics, at boat launches, during boat departure, at the shot
gun start or on any of the tournament grounds at any time.
22.) Ties/Tie Breakers – In the event we have a tie for either Big Fish Friday or Main Event Saturday, the
following payouts will apply.
Big Fish Friday: Should there be an exact tie for the individual fish weight, within the payout structure (1st
through 11th ) the payout amounts will be combined and equally split. For ties outside the payout
structure (for general record), the placement will be determined by first team weighed in.
Main Event Saturday: Should there be an exact tie for the overall big box weight; the tie breaker will go to
the team with the largest individual fish in their box. Should that fish be an identical tie, the places will be
combined and split.
Should there be an exact tie for largest walleye portion of the main event, within the payout structure (1 st
through 8th) the total box weight will determine the winner.
23.) All culling must be completed prior to fish being dropped off to the cooler drop of station in front of the
beach club.
24.) Any fish found being altered in any manner to increase the fish’s weight is unacceptable and will result in
immediate disqualification.
25.) Fish handling is to be considered a cold box/cold well tournament. Bagged or contained ice is permissible in
any quantity. No water baths (warm or cold water), ice lodging, injection of any materials (ground bait,
whole bait, water, lead, sand or other foreign materials) are allowed. This is to also include no external
modifications; such as but not limited to - rubber banding of the fish’s mouth, plugging of the anus, weight
clipping of the gills, fizzing (releasing air) or injecting air, towel wrapping, vacuum sealing of the fish. This
also includes clubbing or orgy-dorfing of the fish. Nothing is to impede the natural digression of the fish.
Simply place the caught fish to be kept into fish-well or cooler and cover with contained ice.
26.) Competitors cannot go ashore once they have departed dock or launch. All boats must leave the
Cattaraugus creek by water and return by water. To touch land anywhere else will result in disqualification.
27.) Any disqualification, no shows, being late or other means of non-participation from the tournament will not
result in a refund.
28.) Any abuse or misuse of the facilities/property of the Sunset Bay Marina, Cabana Sam’s, Sunset Bay Beach
Club, Cottage Rentals, Hanover Launch Ramp, Snow Marina, Hidden Harbor Marina, Private docks and/or its
staff will result in immediate disqualification.
29.) Protest /Challenge Submittals: In the event a team wishes to enter a protest to formally challenge a
competitor conflict, a formal document will be available for submittal. This form, in addition to a charge of
$200.00 will be presented to Tournament Officials. Should the challenge be decided in favor to the protest
submitting team, the $200.00 fee will be refunded to the challenging team. Should the challenge be invalid,
the $200.00 fee will be forfeited.
• A protest must be submitted in writing no later than 30 minutes after final box has been weighed.
4430.) The tournament is deemed OFFICIALLY Closed at noon (12 pm) on Sunday, July 17th , 2022
Upon closing of the tournament, any evidence, accusations, protests or arguments made from
one team against other will be considered invalid and WILL NOT be used in altering or changing
the tournament standings, scores, placement or winnings.
WEATHER CALL
In the event we have unfavorable weather conditions for the tournament, the following processes will be
used for both Big Fish Friday and Main Event Saturday.
Big Fish Friday
a.) If there is a Small-Craft Warning posted prior to opening fishing hours (6:00 am) for Big Fish Friday, the
Big Fish portion of the event will be cancelled. The monies/prizes will be carried over to Saturday utilizing
the largest walleye of the day for the weight of Big Fish Friday. This will be only for teams entered into this
portion of the event.
b.) If weather is rough or unfavorable conditions are present, but no Small-Craft Warning has been posted,
Big Fish Friday will be considered OPEN and fishable. It is the team Captains responsibility to make the
judgment/decision if he feels his team/vessel can safely fish the conditions
c.) In the event, a Small-Craft Warning is posted once fishing hours have started (past 6:00am), fishing will be
considered OPEN and fishable. It is the team Captains responsibility to make the judgment/decision if he
feels his team/vessel can safely fish the conditions.
Saturday Main Event
a.) If there is a Small-Craft Warning posted prior to opening fishing hours (7:00am) for the Main Event
Saturday, the day will be considered officially cancelled and the fleet will prepare for Sunday as the make
up blow day.
b.) If weather is rough or unfavorable conditions are present, but no Small-Craft Warning has been posted,
Big Fish Friday will be considered OPEN and fishable. It is the team Captains responsibility to make the
judgment/decision if he feels his team/vessel can safely fish the conditions
c.) In the event, a Small-Craft Warning is posted once fishing hours have started (past 7:00am), fishing will be
considered OPEN and fishable. It is the team Captains responsibility to make the judgment/decision if he
feels his team/vessel can safely fish the conditions.
Sunday (Make Up - Blow Day)
• Should Sunday be utilized as the tournament main event, the tournament times will move to 6:00 am
shot gun start to 2:30 pm return time; this is to help expedite Sunday weigh-in and payouts. All other
rules and processes will remain the same as Saturday. Payouts will be completed upon conclusion of
all polygraphs.
45Should Friday, Saturday and Sunday be a blow day and the weekend is considered a total weather loss;
deemed unfishable, the payouts will be organized and paid in the following manner:
• Big Fish Friday – Places 11th through 1st will be done by a lottery draw; first 11 team poker chips
drawn will be the winners. They will be drawn from 11th place to 1st place
• Largest Walleye Main Event - Places 8th through 1st will be done by a lottery draw; first 8 team chips
drawn will be the winners. They will be drawn from 8th place to 1st place.
• Calcutta’s – Places 3rd through 1st will be drawn by lottery draw; first 3 team poker chips drawn will
be the winners. They will be drawn from 3rd place to 1st place.
• Main Event – Places 20th through 1st will be done by a lottery draw. They will be drawn from 20th to
1st place.
• The $1,000 Big Wave Calcutta entrants (20 teams) will be refunded. You must be entered into the
main event to participate in the calcuttas.
If required, all drawings will be done at 12:30 pm on Sunday, July 17 th at the Sunset Bay Beach Club.
The Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out maintains zero tolerance of cheating, intent to cheat or
misconduct within our or any other sanctioned event throughout the USA or Canada. The Sunset Bay
Walleye Shootout can prohibit participation of any captain or angler found negligent in following
tournament rules, ours or others.
The fishing territories, angling hours, weigh in format, payouts structures, and all rules of the
tournament are presented to be clear and understood by ALL team Captains and all team members; and
provide an even playing field for each team. By signing the tournament waiver, you understand and
agree with all tournament rules. The tournament officials have the final decision in any/all matters.
4950 Southwestern Blvd. Hamburg, NY 14075 / 716.646.3860
46Irving location: 675 Main Rd., Irving, NY 14081
2003 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga, NY 14225 / 716.608.4770
4748
2022 Opening Dates
Break Wall Café – May 5th Cabana Sam’s – May 12th
Sunset Deli – May 19th Sunset Bay Beach Club – May 27th
Cabana Sam’s
Cooler Drop Location
49Registration Form(s)
The following page is the official registration form. It is a perforated tare-
out version for your convenience
TEAM REGISTRATION FORM
BOAT INFORMATION: BOAT NUMBER:_________
Team Name :
Boat Information: (Make/Model/Length/Hp) -
ANGLER INFORMATION: (2-6 anglers per team)
Team Captain:_______________________________ Tournament Entry Fees Amount Enclosed
Address:____________________________________ Main Event Saturday $500.00
City:________________State:_______ Zip ________ The following are all optional parts of
Email:_____________________Cell:_____________ the tournament. Big Fish Friday is due
at the time of main event registration
Big Fish Friday $100.00
Teammate:_______________________________ The following four (4) Calcutta options
Address:____________________________________ can be paid at the time of main
City:________________State:_______ Zip ________ registration or they can be paid at the
Captains meeting
Email:_____________________Cell:_____________
Calcutta Options
1.) Captains Choice $250.00
Teammate:_______________________________ 2.) Main $100.00
Address:____________________________________ 3.) Rookie $50.00
City:________________State:_______ Zip ________ 4.) Big Eye $100.00
Email:_____________________Cell:_____________ BIG WAVE Calcutta (1st 20 teams) $1,000.00
Total Enclosed = $
Teammate:_______________________________
Address:____________________________________ For Current Teams
City:________________State:_______ Zip ________ Main Entry is due by May 1st, 2022 to secure
Email:_____________________Cell:_____________ your teams position
Teammate:_______________________________ For Expansion/New Teams
Address:____________________________________ Position secured on first registration received
City:________________State:_______ Zip ________
Email:_____________________Cell:_____________ Registrations are to be paid in US Funds to:
Donald J. Ruppert
Registrations should be mailed to: P.O. Box 359, Hamburg, NY 14075
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office use only: Date Received ________________ Check Number/Cash _______________Receipt Number______________
50TOURNAMENT WAIVER
Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out- All Team Participants
In consideration of acceptance of this entry, to participate in the 2022 Sunset Bay Walleye Shootout (Saturday, July
16th, 2022) and/or the Big Fish Friday portion (July 15th, 2022), to also include the Captains meeting (Thursday, July 14th, 2022)
and the Breakfast of Champions, Sunday, July 17th, 2022). I, for myself, my heirs, my teammates, executors, administrators and
associates waive, and release absolutely and unconditionally any and all claims I may become entitled to for injury or damage,
and release all organizing groups, and any other organizers, sponsors, and their active members, servants, agents or employees,
from any claims, demands, damages, actions or causes of actions arising out of any loss, injury or damage to my property incurred
while attending at or participating in this tournament, notwithstanding any such loss, injury, or damages which may arise by
reason of negligence of any other organizers, sponsors and their respective members, servants, agents, or employees.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, I further release any recourse which I may now or hereafter have
resulting from any decisions of the Sunset Bay Walleye Shoot Out and/or organizers, sponsors, and their respective members,
servants, agents, or employees.
I CONFIRM I HAVE READ THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE AND UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENTS, INTENTIONS AND
EFFECT ON MY LEGAL AND EQUITABLE RIGHTS, AND AM SIGNING IT VOLUTARILY.
Name: ___________________________________ Name: ___________________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address: _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
Signature: _______________________________ Signature: _______________________________
(Signature of parent/guardian if applicable) (Signature of parent/guardian if applicable)
Name: ___________________________________ Name: ___________________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address: _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________
Signature: _______________________________ Signature: _______________________________
(Signature of parent/guardian if applicable) (Signature of parent/guardian if applicable)
Name:__________________________ Name:__________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address: _________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________________
_________________________________ _________________________________________
Signature: _______________________________ Signature: _______________________________
(Signature of parent/guardian if applicable) (Signature of parent/guardian if applicable)
➢ In addition to signing the above waiver, I also declare that I am fully aware of the 2022 event rules and regulations and
enforceable penalties, should they not be followed.
➢ In addition to signing the above waiver, I also declare that I and all participating members of my team/group receiving payment,
prizes and/or income are responsible for any/all required state and federal taxes (if required). Sunset Bay Tournament
Officials/Personnel are not accountable for any taxes of any kind due from recipient groups.
➢ In addition, by signing this waiver, we release (give permission) that any/all video/photographs collected by professional and
amateurs filming/photography groups can be utilized by the Sunset Bay Walleye Shootout committee as we see fit.
• Final waiver must be in tournament official’s possession by Wednesday, July 13 th 2022 at 5:00pm
51Weigh-In Process
Our live-interactive weigh-in show is extremely exciting for both the
teams/anglers and audience alike with our HOT-SEAT format.
The weigh-in show is open to the public at no charge to come watch and
enjoy. The weigh-in show begins at 5:00 Pm for both Big Fish Friday
(July15th) and Main Event Saturday (July 16th)
We are proud to utilize true, state of the art technology developed
specifically for professional fishing events. Pro Tournament Scales provide
unmatched accuracy, accounting detail and overall efficiency required to deliver
a 1st class event.
This year we are excited to include our NEW 4’ x 8’ Labatt’s Live
Leader Board, providing exciting; live standings of the Top 10 teams as we
weigh in for both Big Fish Friday and the Main Event Saturday.
52Tournament Apparel /Dress
IMPORTANT REMINDER
For all participating teams to weigh-in for both Big Fish Friday or Main
Event Saturday, all team members must be in matching team T shirts or jerseys.
There are many sources to obtain your gear; we highly recommend
Email MXPFISHING@GMAIL.COM or call/text 585.305.0746
2075 Interchange Rd., Erie, PA 16505 / 814.806.1997
53In great appreciation – Thank You
Jim “Silver” Kuwik Art “AW” Wind Scotty Wind Capt Don Ruppert
Myself, my crew and all of our volunteers, would like to extend a Big
Thank You, to the teams/anglers for supporting and fishing the Sunset Bay
Walleye Shoot Out every season.
It’s your professionalism, competitive spirit and sportsmanship that drives
us to continue to set new standards in professional walleye fishing and put in
the extensive efforts required to deliver a world-class event.
Stay safe and good luck to each and every team in this years tournament;
we look forward to seeing everyone soon.
Best Regards,
Capt. & Crew
54. Rodney's On The Lake, 4179 Lake Shore Road, Hamburg, NY 14075 .
www.tourchautauqua.com
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