About SBOBT
36 Years of Tradition, Conservation & Community.
Our History
For 36 years, the Sturgeon Bay Open Bass Tournament has been a proud Door County tradition. Built by passionate anglers committed to both competitive excellence and environmental stewardship, SBOBT is a nonprofit that has evolved into one of the Midwest's premier bass tournaments, drawing hundreds of competitors each spring and fall.
Giving Back
Since day one, SBOBT has been rooted in giving back—supporting the future of fishing and the preservation of Wisconsin's vital natural resources. Over the past three decades, the tournament has contributed more than $500,000 to fund youth education, community grants, and projects that protect the waters and strengthen the communities we cherish.
- Wisconsin Hunter Safety Program
- Forestry, Fishery & Wildlife Scholarship
- Wisconsin DNR Smallmouth Bass Research
- Underwater camera purchase for fishery study
- Youth fishing and Kids Fishing Day program sponsorship
- "Free the Fighter" signs at county launch sites
Total Donations: Over $500,000
SBOBT board members
Questions about the tournament? Reach out to our board members directly.
Wendy Heim
JJ Malvitz