Anglers reel in fun at seventh annual ice fishing derby

Despite a deep layer of slush over 11-inches of ice, participants reeled in a weekend of fun at the seventh annual Fishing Derby at Merland Park.

Maria Cervenakova

Jennifer and Kevin Lavers host the event – known for its many ice games that kick off with shirtless anglers trying for five minutes to catch the first fresh fish and choice of a prize. Joining the men in competition was one woman, Maria Cervenakova, wearing a camisole. She has been attending the event with her husband Alex for the past five years.

Pike, pickerel perch and great prizes were reeled in by participants from all over Ontario, Quebec and even some from the U.S. who paid $250 for two nights accommodation, dinners and cold hard fun. There were about 50 weekend guests and another 25 who participated in Saturday’s games.

Proceeds from the Ice Fishing Derby go to the local Kiwanis Club. More than $7,000 has been raised for the club’s Terrific Kids program.

Kiwanis volunteers lend a hand over the weekend and help organize the on-ice games, open to the public for a $20 entry fee for an afternoon of fishing fun.