Tournaments & Derbies

From fishing competitions, derbies and special events, Niagara Falls USA is the place to be to enjoy this popular outdoor angling adventure, and the chance to hook a big payday!

Each year, New York State offers free fishing days/weekends, allowing anyone to fish the fresh waters of New York State, and no fishing license is required. It's a great opportunity to try fishing for the first time, or a chance for the whole family to participate. Below is a list of upcoming free fishing days/weekends:

  • February 14-15, 2026 (President's Day Weekend)
  • June 27-28, 2026
  • September 26, 2026 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
  • November 11, 2026 (Veterans Day)

Upcoming Niagara Falls USA Fishing Competitions, Derbies And Events

Lake Ontario Counties (LOC) Fall Trout and Salmon Derby
August 21-September 7, 2026
Help anglers celebrate the return of the mighty king salmon on Lake Ontario! Over $63,500 in cash and prizes, including a $20,000 Grand Prize for the largest salmon caught during this 18-day event. Sign up in local tackle shops or call (888) REEL-2-IN. You can also visit the LOC Derby website for more information and to register.

Reelin' for a Cure (One-Day, Ladies-Only Event)
August 21, 2026
This 11th annual ladies-only event will once again be held out of Wilson and Olcott. It’s a great way to celebrate life and pay tribute to cancer survivors. Learn more and sign up on the tournament's website or call Stephanie at (716) 481-6388.

38th Annual NYPA Wildlife Festival
September 26, 2026 (Tentative)
Held in conjunction with National Hunting and Fishing Day weekend, this event is co-sponsored by the Niagara County Federation of Conservation Clubs and held on the grounds of the Power Authority’s Visitor Center in Lewiston. Doors are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.

Greater Niagara Fishing Expo
February 25-28, 2027
With hundreds of hours of fishing education available for attendees to choose from and over 170 booths of fishing-related exhibitors, the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo is the largest fishing show in New York State and among the largest in the Great Lakes.

LOTSA Salmon School at the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo
February 26-27, 2027
This highly acclaimed school has become the premier Salmon School anywhere in the Great Lakes. What started as a local event now attracts many experienced salmon anglers from around the Great Lakes and Canada. This school is hosted during the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo, February 25-28, 2027, at the Niagara Falls Convention Center in downtown Niagara Falls, NY.