Southern Alberta Walleye Trail (SAWT)
Founded in 1996, the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail (SAWT) is a passionate and vibrant community centered around the sport of walleye fishing. Built on the principles of connection, competition, and conservation, SAWT has grown into a family-oriented association that welcomes anglers of all experience levels—from beginners to seasoned professionals. The organization creates a unique atmosphere where friends, spouses, parents, children, and even grandparents team up, emphasizing camaraderie, inclusivity, and a shared love for the outdoors.
Connect, Compete, Conserve is more than just a motto at SAWT; it defines their way of life. Their tournaments, designed as catch-and-release, photo-based competitions, align with Alberta’s strict fishing regulations. This conservation-first approach ensures that their passion for fishing directly supports the health and sustainability of local fisheries. Anglers participating in SAWT tournaments are not only competing but also playing a vital role in preserving aquatic ecosystems for future generations.
SAWT hosts a series of highly anticipated tournaments across Southern Alberta’s iconic lakes such as Lake Newell, Scope Lake, Travers Reservoir, Clear Lake, Forty Mile, and Murray Lake. Participants come from across the Canadian Prairies and the United States, creating a competitive yet friendly environment where sportsmanship is as important as skill. In 2025, the organization is implementing new advancements, including app-based tournament management and the allowance of forward-facing sonar, demonstrating SAWT’s commitment to innovation while listening to its community through regular surveys and feedback mechanisms.
One of the organization’s proudest achievements is fostering youth involvement. SAWT organizes dedicated tournaments for young anglers under 18, nurturing the next generation of conservation-minded sportsmen and women. These events offer invaluable learning experiences, competition, and opportunities to build lasting friendships within the angling community.
Volunteers play a crucial role in SAWT’s success. From the Executive Team to community helpers, countless individuals contribute to organizing, running, and improving the tournaments each year. The organization is always open to welcoming new volunteers who are passionate about fishing, community, and conservation.
Sponsorships are another key pillar of SAWT’s community impact. Through strong partnerships with local businesses and generous supporters, SAWT not only funds its tournaments but also strengthens the fabric of the communities it touches. Sponsors are celebrated participants in the excitement, recognized for their valuable contributions that help make each season possible.
Above all, the Southern Alberta Walleye Trail is about creating unforgettable fishing experiences while fostering a strong, conservation-driven community. SAWT invites all anglers to join their growing family, promising not just great tournaments, but a lifetime of memories built around the love of walleye fishing.
For more information or to get involved, visit https://sawt.ca.
2025 – May 17 & 18 – Walleye Tournament (SAWT)