I've had some bad experiences with fishing contests.

1st year I went I didn't know how to fish, but caught the biggest Walleye, only one I caught too.

The pay-off was swept under the rug.

2nd trip I caught the only smallie.

Same guy complained to the trip leader that smallies shouldn't count that year. So nada again.

No more fish contest for me. I had suspected it wasn't a very honest contest, i.e. "1st liar doesn't stand a chance". On a later trip I witnessed my fishing partner trying to add length to his catch. Of course I spoke up and told the truth. He wasn't happy. Seems he felt it was every body's right to fug the numbers.

I don't trip with these guys now for various reasons. Not that all fisherman are like this group, but I read this and thought I'd share. Glad I don't trip with these guys anymore.
Hope everyone enjoys a friendly contest.