Sheboygan, WI (WFRV)- When people think surfing, California and ocean water may come to mind.

But surfers can actually hang ten right here in the dairy state as well. Today the Dairyland Surf Classic was held at North Side beach on Lake Michigan in Sheboygan.

Organizers say it's one of the largest gatherings of freshwater surfers in the North America. The waves weren't big enough yet to hold a surfing contest, but they did hold paddling competitions.

The surfing season is actually just getting started here. 

"It's a great time you meet all your surfing friends, you see throughout the wintertime. It's actually the kickoff party for the winter surfing season," said Joel Olson, organizer of the Dairyland Surf Classic.  

"Over the next several months the waves get bigger as the winds start rolling through, you can get 15 to 20 foot waves out here."

The event has been going on labor day weekend since 1987.  It continues through Monday.