I have a lot of experience in tournament administration. You have to have a strict rule book. Even if its a charity event you MUST have strict guidelines or people will not return, no matter how well it is promoted. From what I read and researched the event was well planned and managed. But lax enforcement or inadequate foresight into rules and regulations will mar any tournament. I am sure this is not the only board where someone will complain about the rules and these boards are where our sport is promoted.
Its public water so you can't ban gear guys. BUT you can disqualify anyone who is fishing with gear or has gear on their boat or partner boats.
They should have probably done a 2 day event. 1 day fly only and a second OPEN division where any gear goes. Would allow for more anglers, higher interest and less of a gray area. 2 day event also gives flexibility in schedule. When you schedule a 1 day event there is no wiggle room for weather issues. When anglers are traveling from Canada, Colorado and Wisconsin you need 2 days. 1 day for pre-fishing and 2 for the event.
The event wasnt meant to be a super competitive big money event. It was to benefit the fishery (all gear) and promote the sport (Musky Fly Fishing) and the sponsors. But its called the Musky Fly Fishing World Championship and if managed and grown properly it could turn into something pretty special that would benefit the fishery, local guides and community.
