FISHING LAKE — Avid and die-hard fishermen from across the province travelled to the north shore of Fishing Lake with hopes of catching the largest fish and the top prize. The Fishing Lake Fish On Derby was held Feb. 15, with a total of 615 participants registering.
Arnold Bigsky of Lestock won the $15,000 top prize for the biggest fish, a northern pike weighing 14 lbs., 0 ozs. Second place was claimed by Wayne Trach of Canora with a northern pike weighing 8 lbs., 15 ozs. Chanelle Walters of Melfort claimed third prize with her entry weighing 5 lbs., 15 ozs. Parker Moroz of Wadena won fourth place for his entry weighing 3 lbs., 9 ozs., and Lonnie Yufrym of Danbury won fifth spot for his fish weighing 3 lbs. All of the top five fish were northern pike.
Sheldon Moore of Saskatoon caught the only perch, weighing 13.06 ozs. It was the second time in the history of the derby that a perch has been caught.
Fishermen came from across the province and neighbouring provinces to try their luck at catching the big one. The lake was roped off in a one-kilometre area, and the ice thickness was 24 inches, allowing individuals to travel safely on the ice.
It was reported that the fish were brought in to be weighed just minutes apart. The criteria required the fish to be alive to be registered and then released back into the lake.
Many raffle prizes were drawn during the event.
“The weather was perfect for ice fishing. We couldn't believe how many people came out and supported the event. It was amazing to have so many. Our volunteers and sponsors are all to be commended for helping us make it such a great success,” stated Carmen Sowa, representative.
