Participants at a prior ice fishing derby. (Kenny Moccasin/Facebook)

By Angela Brown

Cash prizes

Murray Lake Ice Fishing Derby fundraiser to help youth

Feb 5, 2023 | 4:08 PM

Outdoor enthusiasts will be gearing up to head to Murray Lake near Cochin for the upcoming Ice Fishing Derby.

The event will be held on March 4, from noon to 4 p.m.

Proceeds will benefit Saulteaux and Moosomin First Nations sports and recreation, with a focus on youth programs.

Saulteaux and Moosomin First Nations are hosting the event. Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Inc. (BATC) Community Development Corporation (CDC) is also a part sponsor.

Saulteaux First Nation Chief Kenny Moccasin is one of the organizers and co-founders of the derby, now in its seventh year.

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“All the money fundraised goes towards the youth. It’s supporting our youth in sports, and promoting healthy lifestyles,” he said.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. on the day of the event. People can also purchase tickets in advance at various participating locations, including Leisure Time Sports Excellence in North Battleford, and directly through the organizers. There is an early bird buy for those who purchase their tickets before March 2.

Holes will be pre-drilled for this catch-and-release fishing derby.

People will be able to grab a bite to eat at one of the canteens set up during the day.

“Hopefully, we have nice weather again,” Moccasin said. “It’s open to anyone to come in and win some awesome cash prizes.”

The top prize is $20,000 for the largest fish caught. There will be 10 cash payout prizes on offer, as well as a $1,000 prize each for the first fish and smallest fish caught.

“It’s mostly pike, and they have burbot,” Moccasin said. “One year we had a burbot that took first place.”

He said people come as far as Regina, and northern Saskatchewan to take part, adding that usually about 500 to 600 fishers participate.

This year the derby will be even bigger, with more opportunities to win.

“Come out. There are some fantastic prizes, cash prizes, to be won,” Moccasin said. “And, it all goes to a good cause.”

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Angela.Brown@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsnow