News Photo by Leslianne Johns Caleb and Lex Beers show off their catches during the 2025 Michigan Spearfishing Tournament held on Saturday, July 12 in Alpena.

ALPENA — Against the scenic backdrop of northern Lake Huron, the 2025 Michigan Spearfishing Tournament brought dozens of divers to Alpena for a day of challenge, community, and conservation. The competition, held on Saturday, July 12, featured free-diving anglers from across the state and beyond, drawing attention not only for its competitive edge but also for its cultural inclusivity and environmental awareness.

The event followed a “freedive only” format, requiring participants to dive without the use of breathing apparatuses. Divers competed in two-person teams — accompanied by boat captains who remained topside — and targeted species such as lake trout, walleye, and northern pike. The day began early, with a 6:30 a.m. start and a strict 3 p.m. deadline to return to the fish cleaning station. Awards were given out for top team and individual performances, the largest fish by weight, and even for the most underwater trash collected — highlighting the event’s dual focus on sport and stewardship.

Michigan Natural Resources Commissioner John Walters emphasized Alpena’s appeal as a host city.

“It’s somewhat centrally located and sits at the northern end of northern Lake Huron,” Walters said. “We’re lucky to have fishermen coming from all over the state — and even from across the country — for this event.”

Walters also stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between outdoor recreation and conservation.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Jonathan Durtka weighs fish during the 2025 Michigan Spearfishing Tournament in Alpena.

“I don’t spear fish personally, but I support those who do,” he said. “We’re working to ensure that this sport continues — not just for fun, but in a way that’s sustainable.”

He noted that regulations are being considered to allow the current spearfishing season to continue and possibly expand.

For first-time competitor Megan Horodko, the experience was both empowering and challenging.

“This is actually my first competition in any kind of hunting or angling event,” Horodko shared. “There are only about four women participating this year, but the community has been incredibly supportive. I was thrilled to get my first fish today!”

When asked about the toughest part of the sport, Horodko pointed to the physical and mental demands of diving itself.

Courtesy Photo Megan Horodko, Riley Smith, Jonathan Durtka, Brian Pilarski, and Lilly McKenzie gather for a photo during the 2025 Michigan Spearfishing Tournament in Alpena.

“People often think you just see a fish, dive down, and shoot,” she said. “But there’s so much more — knowing how deep you can go, how long you can safely hold your breath, and staying calm under pressure.”

She encouraged others, especially women, to get involved.

“Don’t be afraid,” she said. “Reach out — whether it’s me, John Durtka, Brian Pilarski, or Riley Smith. We’ll help however we can. Gear can be loaned out, and everyone here wants to see this community grow.”

With impressive performances across the board, this year’s winners showcased both skill and dedication:

~ First Place Team: Westside Bandits – Seth Anderson and Cole Buller – 244.5 points

~ Second Place Team: Fish Ticklers – Noah Vanderbink and Alex Goodall – 211.4 points

~ Third Place Team: Blue Fly – Dustin Zimmerman and Mark Durocher – 205 points

In the individual category:

~ First Place: Cole Buller – 159.2 points

~ Second Place: Chris O’Neil – 126.4 points

~ Third Place: Dustin Zimmerman – 109 points

The Big Game Winner went again to Cole Buller with a massive 15.2-pound fish.

The tournament was presented by the Michigan Spearfishing Association. Tournament sponsors included Hammerhead Spearfishing, SpearAmerica, Captain Hooks, Soslo Spearfishing, Great Lakes Divers of Alpena, and the Alpena Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Commissioner Walters summed up the broader value of events like this: “There’s a natural balance between harvest and conservation. But above all, it’s about camaraderie — people coming together, sharing their passion, and respecting nature.”

As the tournament wrapped up, the future looks bright not just for spearfishing in Alpena, but for outdoor sporting culture in Michigan as a whole — one dive at a time.