The idea of ??organizing a major fishing tournament in the territory of James Bay was launched in 1999 by Mr. Richard Laplante.Businessman in the town of Chapais, Mr. Laplante is the founding chairman of Walleye James Bay.
Chapais, small municipality of about two thousand inhabitants located southeast of the territory of James Bay, is hosting the event. The main site around which most activities is located 10 kilometers from Chapais, near the banks of Lake Opemisca.
The Walleye James Bay is a non-profit organization legally incorporated. The organization receives from its founding support of many partners. Hydro-Quebec supports the organization as a main partner. As major sponsors of the 13th edition, the festival team is supported by: Ville de Chapais, the Municipality of James Bay, Princecraft, Mercury, Molson Coors Light, Opinaca Mines Ltd., Quebec Fishing, Hunting and Fishing Action, Tourism Bougoumou, Creeco, Regional Conference of the James Bay and Grand Council of the Crees / Cree Regional Authority.
Each year, nearly a thousand people participating in this mega tournament provincial fishing. Since its inception, the awards and scholarships increased from $50 000 to $135 000. The success of the festival takes to the road via a promotional strategy targeted to anglers and outdoor. Branding of the event is broadcast by several major mass media whose Réseau des sports (RDS), the magazine Sentier Chasse-Pêche, the popular Quebec Fishing website and via the spokesman of the event Norman Byrns, professional fisherman renowned Quebec.
Over the years, the Bay Walleye James became unquestionably a product of significant appeal to the James Bay region while it is the largest fishing tournament in Quebec. In addition, the festival has developed a professional tourism expertise, thanks to the involvement of over 150 volunteers, all eager to contribute to the economic and tourism in their region. The organization's mission is to prepare a major tourist event in order to participate in the development and promotion of the James Bay region, we can say that the festival is a success across the board.
The 13th annual Walleye James Bay will be held from June 21 to June 30 2012. More than 135,000 dollars in cash and prizes will be distributed among the winners of the tournament in the amateur category and class professionals. It is chaired by Mr. Patrice Devin the festival team, employees and volunteers, will ensure the coordination and implementation of the 13th annual Walleye James Bay. Everyone is welcome and just tease the gold of the James Bay!