Scotties Marina will host its 11th annual Family Fishing Derby on Saturday, Feb. 20.
Fishermen and fisherwomen can hit the lake as early as they like to try to bag the biggest catch of the day, but they have to be back at the marina in time to weigh in before 4 p.m.
“The last fish to go on the scale is at 4 p.m. sharp, so anybody comes in late, they don’t get to weigh,” says Debbie Imeson, owner of Scotties Marina.
There are usually anywhere from 80 to 110 entries in the derby and the cost to enter is $50. The money goes into a cash pot split between the top three biggest catches.
There are also draw prizes donated by business such as Columbia Power, Columbia Basin Trust, Canadian Tire and Castlegar Realty.
“There’s lots of prize donations. Last year we almost had a prize for just about every entrant,” says Imeson.
There will also be a BBQ with complimentary smokies, coffee and soft drinks.
Tickets are available up until the morning of the derby and can be purchased at Scotties Marina. Participants can moor and launch their boats for free during the event.