It was a bunch of hardy souls who participated in the 2011 Jackfish Lake Ice Fishing Derby.
The 15th annual event took place between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Feb.19 at Delorme's Beach, Jackfish Lake on what was described as the coldest day of the year, with temperatures hovering around -30 C.
Still, there was the usual heavy turnout of 2,300 fishermen hoping to be the lucky winner of the grand prize. The event is a major fundraiser for the Battlefords North Stars, and North Stars players were on hand to sell 50/50 tickets.
Prizes were awarded for first, second and third place.
First place went to Scott Kosar, who caught a 5.55 lb burbot to win top prize in the event. He wins a Princecraft Pro 164SS with 90HP Mercury four stroke motor and trailer.
Second place went to Terry Huxley, who caught a 5.45 lb pike. He wins a Princecraft 14-foot Yukon boat with four stroke motor and trailer.
Third place went to Debbie Wohlberg, who caught a 5.25 lb burbot. She wins a 12-foot boat with four stroke motor and trailer.
The $11,500 50/50 prize went to Stuart Toews. Nathan Exkel won the junior category while Spencer Sack finished second.
Other prizes included a 50-inch Panasonic TV, a Yamaha generator, and a Minnkota 55PD trolling motor.
In all, over $200,000 in prizes were up for grabs, but no one was able to win the bonus for biggest fish caught that weighed over 7.5 lbs. That would have netted a bonus of $100,000 cash plus a $50,000 shopping spree at Battleford Furniture.
