FOND DU LAC, Wis. (WFRV) – After two days of high-stakes fishing on Lake Winnebago and stiff competition from more than 550 anglers, one team emerged as the clear champions of the 47th annual Mercury National Walleye Tournament.
According to a press release from Mercury, this year’s top prize went to a pair of local anglers, Wayne Gregor of Rosendale and Dale Boeck of Oshkosh, who reeled in a 10-walleye haul weighing 28 pounds, 13 ounces to secure the win.
Mercury Marine VP Global Supply Chain Karly Yuds congratulates Mercury National Walleye Tournament 2025 winners Wayne Gregor and Dale Boeck.
These traditions not only showcase the best of Fond du Lac and our shared passion for the outdoors, but also provide a meaningful boost to the local economy by supporting small businesses, tourism and community organizations.
Mercury President John Buelow
Held on June 7th and 8th as part of Fond du Lac’s Walleye Weekend festival, the tournament awarded the winning team a LUND 1875 Impact XS fishing boat, outfitted with a Mercury 150hp Pro XS outboard, a 9.9hp ProKicker, a Lowrance Ghost trolling motor and a giant check of $55,000.
The press release highlights that since its launch in 1978, the Mercury National event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Winnebago walleye conservation and other fishery efforts. In recent years, the broader Walleye Weekend has delivered over $1.2 million in net profits to local nonprofits.
Drawing over 50,000 attendees annually, Walleye Weekend offers a full state of live music, food vendors, kids’ activities, and fishing excitement. Mercury Marine remains at the heart of the event, not only as the title sponsor but also through the volunteer efforts of dozens of its employees.
As the 2025 winners celebrate their victory, the tournament continues to reinforce its dual legacy, a premier fishing competition and a powerful force for the community good in Fond du Lac and the Fox Valley.