Plattsburgh Rotary Hosts 40th Annual Fishing Classic

Fundraiser event on Lake Champlain draws anglers from across Northeast

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:50am

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A dynamic, textured painting in bright neon colors depicting the energetic motion and action of a fishing tournament on a lake, conveying the celebratory spirit of the community event.The annual Rotary Fishing Classic on Lake Champlain brings together anglers from across the region in a celebration of the lake's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.Plattsburgh Today

The Rotary Club of Plattsburgh is hosting the 40th annual Rotary Fishing Classic on Lake Champlain from June 5-7. The event is the oldest fishing tournament on the lake and serves as a major fundraiser for the local Rotary chapter, attracting anglers from the Northeastern U.S. and Canada.

Why it matters

The Rotary Fishing Classic has become a beloved annual tradition in Plattsburgh, bringing together the community and raising funds for the Rotary Club's charitable initiatives. As one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the region, the event highlights the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Champlain.

The details

The 40th annual Rotary Fishing Classic will take place over three days from June 5-7 on Lake Champlain. The tournament is the oldest fishing event on the lake and is hosted by the Rotary Club of Plattsburgh as a major fundraiser for the organization's community programs and initiatives.

  • The Rotary Fishing Classic has been an annual event since 1986.
  • This year's tournament will be held from June 5-7, 2026.

The players

Rotary Club of Plattsburgh

A local chapter of the international Rotary service organization, hosting the annual fishing tournament as a major fundraiser.

Lake Champlain

The large freshwater lake that borders New York, Vermont, and Quebec, providing a scenic backdrop and prime fishing grounds for the tournament.

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What they’re saying

“The Rotary Fishing Classic has become a beloved tradition that brings the community together while also raising crucial funds for our charitable work.”

— Sarah Johnson, President, Rotary Club of Plattsburgh

What’s next

Registration for the 40th annual Rotary Fishing Classic will open on the Rotary Club of Plattsburgh's website in early May.

The takeaway

The long-running Rotary Fishing Classic on Lake Champlain exemplifies how community organizations can leverage local natural resources and traditions to support their charitable missions and bring people together.