PIERRE, S.D. - Fishing tournament organizers in South Dakota need to make sure that they have filled out the proper Game, Fish and Parks Department paperwork when planning their events.

Applications for fishing tournaments and special events must be filed with GFP no later than 30 days before the events are held.

“During that 30 days, the Department can collect the necessary signatures and take care of any special requirements,” said Dana Ertz, GFP special events permits coordinator. “Some events will require a proof of insurance or a special waiver.”  

Ertz added that it is important to use the current 2010 application because it is date-sensitive.

The 2010 application includes important information for tournament organizers, such as the dates during the year when fishing tournaments are not allowed to be held, as well as dates when salmon and walleye catch-and-release tournaments are restricted.

Completing the event paperwork as soon as possible helps all of the parties involved avoid problems. “This advance notice allows us to make sure there isn’t another event already planned at the same time, at the same location,” Ertz explained.