The biting winds didn’t stop the die-hard ice fishers of the region from gathering on Lenore Lake last Saturday, January 18 for the 15th Annual Lake Lenore Lions Fish Derby. The Derby was deemed a success by organizers who reported 371 sport fishers of all ages registering. The Derby has gained a stellar reputation bringing in anglers from the home region but also netting some from as far away as Alberta.
“The support from entrants is greatly appreciated,” says a post-event statement provided by the Lake Lenore Lions. “The great list of sponsors the Lions have is a key factor in the numbers as the Lions gave way 30 significant prize packages thanks to the sponsor support.”
As for the winners, the biggest fish, a 3.71 lb pike, caught by Chris Johannsen from Raymore, netted him $6,674.80. Second place for a 3.35 lb pike went to Glen Gerwing and fishing buddy Ryan Yeager from Lake Lenore. They received $3,337.40.
Third place went to Jeff Tholaksen from St. Brieux for a pike that weighed 3.09 lbs. He won $2002.44. Fourth place went to Jerod Pask from Melfort. His 3.05 lb pike was worth $1334.96.
Jacoby Carr from Humboldt earned $500 for a 3.0 lb walleye from prize sponsor Horizon Fertilizers. The Lakeview Insurance $250 prize for the largest perch was won by Richard Gies. His name was drawn from all entries as no perch were caught.
Thirty great prizes were drawn from all entries. They had a value of $150-$900 and consisted of ice augers, a fish flasher, a fishing camera, fishing tents, a mini fridge, several sleds full of fishing accessories, other fishing packages, a Bradley Smoker, Big Buddy Heaters, fishing rods, winter clothing, and gift cards ranging from $200 to $350 in value. Other smaller prizes were handed out as fish were brought in.
Among the biggest winners of the day was Trey Poitras from Edenwold who won the 50-50 draw, which netted him $4850.00.
The Derby is the biggest annual fundraiser for the Lake Lenore Lions Club and this year it again raised close to $20,000. Lions’ donations go for community and school needs, upkeep of local facilities, district needs such as the Humboldt Hospital, provincial needs such as STARS, national needs such as disaster relief and Dog Guides, and even international needs. Plans for this year’s earnings include helping with Recreation Center upgrades, ball diamond upgrades, and possibly community hall renovations. The Lions give a big shout out to their many community helpers, all those who participated by fishing, and our valued sponsors who make this event possible.
“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” comes from the Lake Lenore Lions.
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With content courtesy of Beryl Bauer