Fishing derby was another success

The rowing club dock was a popular spot on the morning of the derby, with people standing elbow to elbow, hoping to catch something. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Lake Lisgar was lined with anglers trying to catch the largest fish as part of the annual fishing derby on July 4.

Rosemary Dean, who organizes the free family event with her family, said there were 352 participants this year, which was down from past years.

“It’s all about the families,” she said. “It’s all about the kids. Whether one comes or 500, it’s all about the kids.”

The derby has had more than 500 people in some past years.

Dean was thankful the weather was good, noting there were only two or three light showers that didn’t last long.

“We were all prepared for it, not knowing what the weather was going to be,” she said.

Besides the prizes for the largest fish, which were broken down into species, there were grab bags for all and random participation prizes. Dean said the kayak winner was especially excited and heard he was practicing in his swimming pool the next day.

The largest bass caught on the day was a 20-inch largemouth. There is also a category for most unusual catch, which has included shopping carts and real estate signs in the past. Dean reported there were no exceptionally unusual catches this year.

“We had lots of turtles,” she said. “Not that we encourage people catching them, but there were lots of turtles.”

The derby is strictly catch-and-release, where everything that comes out goes back in.

“Bring it in, get it measured as quick as you can, and get it back in the lake,” Dean said of the goal.

She did note that no carp were caught.

“We haven’t had a carp in several years out of that lake,” she said, suggesting that category may be changed.

The event always coincides with Ontario's free family fishing week, when no license is required. This year followed that pattern.

Outside of the fishing, Dean gave a nod of thanks to the Rapid Relief Team for helping with the food, Suppa Swirl for the free ice cream for participants, and the Lions Club for promoting the event and assisting on derby day.

“Without support from our donors we wouldn’t be able to do it as a 100 per cent free event,” she said.

With the derby complete, planning is already underway for next year.

“When one year stops, we’re already starting to get things in place for the next year,” Dean said.