The Rainy River in northern Minnesota has long been known as one of the best walleye fisheries in North America. Each fall, anglers from near and far gather along its banks to enjoy the incredible autumn bite — and one event that has become a true fall tradition for walleye anglers is the Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament, hosted by Border View Lodge.
On Saturday, October 11th, Border View Lodge hosted the 15th Annual Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament, drawing 75 teams to compete for the title of Chili Bowl Champions right in the heart of walleye country.
A Celebration of Fishing, Friendship, and Fall Tradition
This annual tournament has grown from humble beginnings into one of the most anticipated fall events on the Rainy River. Anglers of all experience levels — from seasoned pros to local weekend fishermen — come together for a day of camaraderie, fun, and some friendly competition on the water.
Teams of two anglers each set out to find and measure their best five walleyes throughout the day. What makes the Chili Bowl so special is that it embraces both modern technology and conservation. The tournament uses the popular Fish Donkey app, which has become a favorite among competitive anglers. Participants take a photo of each fish on a ruler or “bump board” for an official measurement, followed by a second “hero” shot — then the fish is quickly released back into the water.
This catch-photo-release format keeps things simple and fair while being exceptionally conservation-minded, ensuring every walleye caught during the tournament goes right back into the Rainy River to fight another day.
Big Fish and Big Smiles
This year’s tournament did not disappoint. The team of Chris Philen and Tony Boyd took home the top honors with an incredible total weight of 35.70 pounds for their five walleyes — averaging over seven pounds per fish! Congratulations to Chris and Tony for an outstanding day on the water and for joining the ranks of past Chili Bowl champions.
As part of the event’s lighthearted tradition, the winning team celebrates by eating chili out of the famous Chili Bowl trophy, a quirky and beloved ritual that captures the fun, community spirit of the event.
From Humble Beginnings to a Premier Fall Event
When the Chili Bowl first began 15 years ago, it was a much more relaxed, local-style tournament. In the early days, teams were only allowed to weigh walleyes under the protected slot of 19.5 inches, and the format involved bringing fish to the scales right at Border View Lodge. It wasn’t unusual to see pontoon boats full of friends anchored along a river edge, jigging up walleyes while enjoying the crisp fall air — and maybe even taking a mid-day break to enjoy a bowl of hot chili right at the lodge.
Over time, the event has evolved, much like the sport of fishing has evolved. The switch to a catch-and-release format through the Fish Donkey app brought new excitement and opportunity, as anglers can now register and release walleyes within the protected slot range of 19.5 to 28 inches. In the past, a fish in the slot, or a walleye over 28 inches, wouldn’t count.
The modern format ensures accurate measurements, quick verification, and excellent fish care — a win-win for both anglers and the fishery.
A Prime Rib Finish
While chili remains a fun theme, the menu has certainly been elevated over the years. Today, participants are treated to a delicious prime rib dinner at Border View Lodge following the tournament. The dinner provides the perfect ending to a full day on the water — a time to swap stories, celebrate the winners, and share laughs over a hearty meal.
The Border View Lodge team truly rolls out the red carpet for anglers. From the well-organized event logistics to the warm hospitality, every detail reflects their commitment to making the Chili Bowl a highlight of the fall season. Many anglers return year after year, and the positive buzz from participants shows just how special this event has become.
Over time, the event evolved along with technology. The switch to a catch-and-release format through the Fish Donkey app brought new excitement and opportunity, as anglers can now register and release walleyes within the protected slot range of 19.5 to 28 inches. The modern format ensures accurate measurements, quick verification, and excellent fish care — a win-win for both anglers and the
As part of the event’s lighthearted tradition, the winning team celebrates by eating chili out of the famous Chili Bowl trophy, a quirky and beloved ritual that captures the fun, community spirit of the event.
Looking Ahead to 2026
If this year’s tournament is any indication, the Chili Bowl’s popularity will only continue to grow. Registration is already open for the 2026 Chili Bowl, and spots are expected to fill quickly. The entry fee is $300 per team, which includes not only tournament participation but also the prime rib dinner and lots of giveaways provided by the generous sponsors and hosts.
For anglers looking for a fun, friendly, and exciting fall fishing event — surrounded by the beauty of northern Minnesota and the thrill of the Rainy River walleye run — the Chili Bowl is the perfect choice.
So grab your favorite fishing partner, charge your smartphone for those Fish Donkey hero shots, and get ready for another memorable year at the Chili Bowl Walleye Tournament at Border View Lodge — where fishing, friendship, and fall tradition come together on the Rainy River.
What is the fall run of walleyes on the Rainy River?
Each fall, as the days begin to get shorter and the water starts to cool, emerald shiners, a favorite of Lake of the Woods walleyes, begin to enter the Rainy River in good numbers. Naturally, walleyes from Lake of the Woods are close behind. This annual fall tradition sets up an incredible walleye bite on the Rainy River.
When does the fall run of walleyes begin?
Only Mother Nature knows for sure, but typically it begins in mid September and continues through the fall until ice up.
What do anglers use to catch fall walleyes?
The go to presentation for fall walleyes is a jig and minnow, and for many anglers, a jig and frozen emerald shiner.
There are some anglers who will cover water by trolling crankbaits on the river which is also a very effective technique.
Can you still catch walleyes on the lake?
Absolutely, in fact walleyes school up in the fall across the south shore and amongst the many islands of the NW Angle of Lake of the Woods. As winter is approaching, walleyes are putting on the feedbag, often setting up some of the best fishing of the entire year.
