LAKE GEORGE, Colo. – Eleven Mile State Park will host the annual Cabela’s Colorado Classic Pro-Am Ice Fishing Tournament produced by the 11 Mile Marina, starting with the Grand Slam Jan. 10, followed by the South Park Ice Masters Traveling Trophy Feb. 7 and ending with the Marina March Madness March 7, 2015. The Cabela’s Colorado Classic has grown to be one of Colorado’s premier ice fishing contests with thousands of dollars in cash and prizes won and given away.

This year the promoters are excited to announce a new Pro-Am format. The contest basically remains the same as in years past, but adds a new Pro Division. Over the last few years the large cash prizes have attracted professional, expert and everyday anglers alike. In an effort to ensure fairness for the everyday amateur angler and protect their ability and chance to win big money, while providing expert and professional fishermen an opportunity to win big cash prizes as well, the 11 Mile Marina along with contest sponsors came up with a plan to add a Pro Division to the tournament. Tournament Director Larry Falk said, “We hope this new approach to even the playing field for the everyday angler will attract new participants who have been hesitant to sign up in the past because they felt their chances to win big prizes were diminished by competing directly against the pros.” In addition to Cabela’s, which is now in its second year as Presenting Sponsor, the contest boasts a line-up of Participating Sponsors unlike any ice fishing event in the State with sponsors like Colorado’s own Eagle Claw, national leaders like Berkley, Shakespeare and many more. With the addition of new Participating Sponsors like Big Rock Sports, one of the nation’s largest distributors of hunting and fishing gear, Acme Tackle, the makers of the famous Kastmaster lure, Beaver Dam Tip Ups, and the new format, everyone has a better chance to win cash and door prizes.

All tournament contests are team events and each team consists of two anglers, one of whom must be at least 18 years old.  Each event stands alone as a separate contest.  If a team competes in all three events, there is a point system that yields additional prize money. Entry fees are $80 per contest per team or $190 for all three events.  A valid daily or annual Colorado State Park pass is required for all vehicles entering the park.  A valid Colorado fishing license is also required for all participants. For more information on the tournament, go to www.11milesports.com or call 719-748-0317.

For Eleven Mile State Park information, call the office at 719-748-3401 or visit cpw.state.co.us Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, more than 300 state wildlife areas, all of Colorado’s wildlife, and a variety of outdoor recreation. For more information go to cpw.state.co.us For more news about Colorado Parks and Wildlife go to: http://cpw.state.co.us For more information about Colorado Parks and Wildlife go to: http://cpw.state.co.us