BONNYVILLE - On Saturday, more than 60 ice-fishers took to Angling Lake to compete in the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs second annual Ice Fishing Derby.
Starting at 9 a.m. sharp, 64 participants dropped their line and hooks until 3 p.m. to catch, measure and release what they hoped would be the largest pike pulled from the lake.
Roughly 10 kids participated in this year's newly added youth category, said Michelle Pollock, the office manager for the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs.
Although the temperature dipped below -20C throughout the day, participants still enjoyed their time on the frozen lake. Many participants came equipped with hot beverages, treats and heaters.
"I may not have caught the prize, but at least we are raising money for the Pontiacs," said Trevor Boisvert, who took part in the tournament with his son Mike Boisvert.
The Ice Fishing Derby was organized to help raise money for the local Jr. A hockey club, which has seen a decline in game-day attendance and has struggled to host other fundraising events since the start of the pandemic.
Tournament winners
Big Fish Category
1. Corey Blackmore 29 inches
2. Kelvin Desjarlais 29 inches
3. Eleasha Lehr 28.75 inches
Stringer of three Category
1. Kyle Thomson 85.50 inches
2. Corey Blackmore 85 inches
3. Kelvin Desjarlais 84 inches
Youth Division – Big Fish Category
1. Taylor Salzl 28.25 inches
2. Spencer Lobe 28 inches
3. Nicholas Locke 27.25 inches
Youth Division – Stringer of three Category
1. Spencer Lobe 81.25 inches
2. Nicholas Locke 78.75 inches
3. Hunter Cardinal 78.75 inches
