The Bill Dance Mississippi River Monsters catfish tournament will make its return to Vicksburg this summer and tourney officials say it is already off to a strong start.

Executive Director George Young Jr. said there are 50 teams already committed and open registration for the tournament will begin April 1.

This year’s tournament is scheduled to be held July 28-29 and Young said the evolution of the event will continue in 2024 with the addition of the Mega Bucs Pro Series, sponsored by SeaArk Boats.

“Paying up to 10 places plus a huge Big Fish cash prize, the Mississippi River Monsters Mega Bucs Tournament Event will prove to be like no other event yet experienced in the world of trophy catfish tournament competition,” the event’s website explains. “With a purse totaling $200,000 and a first-place cash prize of $100,000, tournament catfishing is about to make a giant step forward.”

In February, Young spoke to The Vicksburg Post during a stay at the Mulberry in preparation for this year’s event. Young said the River City has proven to be an ideal location for the tournament in many ways – from the deep spots in the Mississippi River perfect for catfish, to the vibrant settings of downtown Vicksburg that make for an inviting stay for the many teams and family members involved in the event.

Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Laura Beth Strickand said the 50 teams already registered for this year’s tournament are coming over from the 2023 event, adding she thinks 2024’s changes will lead to an even bigger success.

“It’s (the tournament) been moved up a week this year,” Strickand said, “So that should be a good week and since it’s moved back into the summer they think people will be able to bring their families and it won’t be just the fishermen.”

For more information on how to become involved in this year’s tournament, visit mississippirivermonsters.com.