The third annual Ice Fishing Derby is running at Irrigation Lake Feb. 8, as part of the Family Day WinterFest event.
Over 85 people came out to the derby last year, and organizers Calvin and Brenda Glaim said they expect a big turnout this year too.
“There’s going to be a lot of people there… We’re getting phone calls every day about it,” Calvin said.
“It’s going to be awesome.”
Calvin said it’s a great family event, with hot drinks, barbecued hamburgers, bonfires and hot dogs, and lots of great door prizes.
They also have 50/50 tickets and first, second and third prizes for the adult winners and for the kid winners, he said.
“It’s nice to see all the people out there… all of them little kids are just so happy playing around,” Calvin said.
Tickets are $20 at the lake and kids under 12 are free, and all the derby proceeds go to the B.C. Ambulance Services in Houston.
Brenda said the derby is put on in memory of Dan Ashcroft, an avid fisherman who lived in Houston before his death in Dec. 2009.
Asked about the mild weather, Calvin said they always check the ice thickness to make sure it’s safe, and he doesn’t expect the weather to be a problem.
Bring your fishing licence and “come out and catch the big one!” said Brenda.
They extend thanks to all the generous Houston and Smithers sponsors.
