Green Bay will transform into a global angling hub this weekend as it hosts the 2025 Street Fishing World Championship. Anglers from across the globe will gather to showcase their skills in this unique form of urban fishing, where enthusiasts cast their lines from city shorelines, offering a rare opportunity for spectators to witness world-class fishing up close.
“Anyone who wants to come along and see us can literally walk straight up to us,” expressed Lee Young, a coach and competitor for the U.S. team from Green Bay. “As long as they’re at a respectful distance so we don’t hook an ear or a nose, they can be part of the action.”
This year, the competition along the Fox River will see participation from 10 countries. Victory will be awarded to the team with the longest cumulative length of fish caught.
Wisconsin: A Thriving Hub for Street Fishing
Street fishing is experiencing rapid growth as a competitive sport globally, according to Young, who also leads USAngling’s street fishing division. The restrictions of the pandemic, which limited long-distance travel, have contributed to the sport’s rise in popularity as people turned to local waters for recreation.
Wisconsin, with its abundant lakes and rivers, especially in urban settings, has become a prime location for street fishing. The sport’s accessibility, eliminating the need for boats or cars, makes it appealing to many residents.
Long-time anglers at Lake Monona in Madison attest to the area’s rich fishing culture. “I grew up fishing this area with my Uncle Ed, right under here for crappies,” shared James Bartels from Blanchardville. Leng Yang from Madison added, “I pretty much grew up with my dad teaching me how to fish (here),” emphasizing the sport’s role in fostering patience and skill.
The strong street fishing community in Wisconsin also serves as a fertile ground for recruiting talent for the USA Street Fishing Team.
The Art of Competition: Strategy and Teamwork
In competitive street fishing, artificial bait is used, and teams compete in pairs to net, measure, and release fish. Proper handling is crucial to avoid penalties, making teamwork and understanding between partners essential.
“You really have to get to know each other and be able to just react and relate without having to spend time on words,” Young explained. The dynamic between partners is vital for success in the competition.
Chris Ledvina, a teammate and coach, highlighted the tactical aspect of the sport. During pre-competition sessions, teams engage in strategic games to test their baits without revealing their techniques. “It’s smoke and mirrors,” Ledvina noted. “If you’re watching us, you aren’t going to know if we’re really fishing or if we’re just playing with you guys.”
Ledvina, who has fished since childhood in Shawano, appreciates the unique challenges street fishing presents. “You can kind of get off the beaten track, get away from people and find your own little niche,” he said, valuing the sport for its emphasis on skill over technology.
For newcomers interested in street fishing, both Ledvina and Young advise starting simple and seeking local advice. “I always tell people to go to your local bait shop and talk to them,” Ledvina suggested. Young added, “Don’t try and buy all the rigs and gear you need. Try a couple of things that locals have told you will work for your location and learn from that.”
