November fishing tournaments at Lake of the Ozarks give anglers a reason to keep the boat ready as the holiday season approaches. The 2026 schedule includes a mid-month trail finale and two Thanksgiving-weekend events, offering different options for a dedicated fishing trip.
If you travel with an RV, pair your tournament planning with a stay at The Riviera RV Resort in Sunrise Beach. Our year-round operation lets you plan beyond summer, with your own kitchen and familiar living space waiting after a day on the water.
Three tournament dates to know
SHOW ME Tournaments lists Just Fish Team Trail Tournament #7 for Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at PB2. The organizer describes it as the final regular-season event and currently lists a membership-fee waiver for that event. Review registration details and the full rules directly with SHOW ME before entering.
The same organizer lists its fourth annual Black Friday Derby for Friday, November 27, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robin’s Resort. Note the location: it is different from the PB2 events. Confirm the precise check-in, launch and weigh-in instructions for this derby.
Midwest Fishing Tournaments lists Marie’s Memorial Bass Challenge for Saturday, November 28, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Takeoff and weigh-in are at Grand Glaize State Park, also known as PB2, at 711 Public Beach Road in Osage Beach. The current listing shows a $300 entry fee per boat. Visit the organizer’s page for registration procedures, eligibility and deadlines.
Plan the stay around tournament logistics
Choose your event before choosing your daily schedule. Build in time for registration, equipment checks, any permitted practice fishing and the drive to the launch. Read the organizer’s restrictions before assuming you can fish a practice day or use a particular area.
Ask the resort about your RV’s site fit and any separate needs for a boat and trailer. Do not assume a campsite reservation includes a boat slip or trailer space. Our boating and storage information is a starting point for those questions.
If you plan to keep your boat in the water, confirm slip availability and requirements independently of your RV reservation. You should also arrange a suitable launch location in advance; a slip reservation does not establish where you will launch or satisfy tournament check-in instructions.
Treat fall fishing patterns as a starting point
The Lake of the Ozarks visitor bureau’s fall fishing guide describes changing baitfish locations and a range of productive depths and presentations through autumn. The useful takeaway for trip planning is flexibility: a pattern that worked on your last visit may need adjustment after changing weather or water conditions.
Start with current reports and observe conditions when you arrive. Locate baitfish, note water clarity and temperature, and adapt your presentation rather than expecting one lure or depth to work everywhere. If you are new to the lake, consider a licensed local guide for an orientation on a non-tournament day, subject to the event’s rules.
Review current Missouri fishing regulations and permit requirements. Tournament rules may impose additional restrictions beyond the general fishing rules.
Make room for the rest of your crew
A fishing trip can work for traveling companions who have other interests. November 20 begins Laurie’s Enchanted Village of Lights season, and the November 28 lighted parade offers an evening activity that weekend. Avoid promising to attend immediately after weigh-in; leave time for loading, travel and a meal.
Our Sunrise Beach camping guide offers broader trip ideas, while RV site information helps you plan your accommodations.
Tournament stay FAQs
Are all three events at PB2?
No. The November 14 and November 28 events list PB2. The November 27 Black Friday Derby lists Robin’s Resort.
Is entry included with a Riviera reservation?
No. Register with the tournament organizer separately and arrange lodging directly with The Riviera.
Can I arrange a Thanksgiving-weekend arrival?
Contact the office in advance to confirm availability and arrival procedures around holiday office closures.
Contact The Riviera with your dates, RV dimensions and boating questions so you can plan the stay before focusing on tournament day.
