Methinks you are overthinking this. Anglers shouldn't have to have a decoder ring just to participate in a fishing contest. Forget the novice vs expert thing. We all know that rookies often catch the biggest and most. And we also know that no matter how much we think we know, the fish can humble us "experts" at times.
Keep the categories as simple as possible...such as trout (all species), panfish (perch, crappies, bluegill, white bass) & "others"...including bass, wipers, walleyes, cats etc. And make the contest a simple May through September...or October.
That will make it easier for folks to enter and participate...and for the admins to keep it on track.
Howsomever, the idea of having monthly recognition or awards has merit.
Keep the categories as simple as possible...such as trout (all species), panfish (perch, crappies, bluegill, white bass) & "others"...including bass, wipers, walleyes, cats etc. And make the contest a simple May through September...or October.
That will make it easier for folks to enter and participate...and for the admins to keep it on track.
Howsomever, the idea of having monthly recognition or awards has merit.