Alameda Fish Derby saw almost 290 participants register for their 15th annual event held on June 25 at Moose Creek Regional Park. With $5,000 in guaranteed prize money given out for the heaviest northern pike, the fishermen and women had some serious fishing to do during the derby.
The day started early in the morning with people launching their boats as early as 6 a.m, following a stomach-filling pancake breakfast. Fishermen and women spent most of the day on the lake, returning only around 4 p.m. to get cleaned up for the 6 p.m. supper held at the Alameda Rink or to take part in the beer gardens.
People of all ages participated in the event with prizes provided to youth and adults. The early bird draw saw Colby Ricard win the Ipad donated by Mayco Well Servicing, and the two youth bikes donated by Moose Mountain Wildlife Federation won by Xavier Gervais and Joseph Faber.
The barbecue beef supper started at 5 p.m. and was thoroughly enjoyed by many. People were seen meandering through the prize tables, identifying where to enter their name for a chance to win. Following the delicious meal, was the announcement of prize winners.
The adult derby winners were announced with Lyle Odgers taking first place with his 13.38 pound fish, winning him $2,000 in prize money. Theresa Jahn came in second place with an 11.9 pound fish and $1,000 in cash. The third and fourth place winners, winning $500 each, were Alan Nicholas (10.5 lbs) and Kevin Beaudoin (10.4 lbs). Those placing fifth through eighth were given $250 in prize money and included Doris Morrow (9.58 lbs), Jim Howard (9.12 lbs), Cory Murray (9.08 lbs) and Richard Hogg (8.36 lbs).
The youth competition identified a first and second place winner. Nate Smart took first place with a 6.5 pound fish, winning himself $200 in cash money. Morgan Haygarth caught a 5.86 pound fish meaning a second place finish and $100 in prize money.
All in all, the event was a success. Money raised from the auction goes to Alameda Community Rec Board, the organization responsible for all of the recreational facilities in Alameda.
