A photo taken from a previous Murray Lake Ice Fishing Derby. (Image Credit: The Saskatchewan Angler/Facebook)

By battlefordsNOW staff

REELING IN SUPPORT

$100K on the ice: Murray Lake fishing derby returns to support youth sports in two First Nations

Mar 1, 2026 | 6:02 AM

Hundreds of anglers are expected to descend on Murray Lake next weekend for a shot at $100,000 in prizes and to help fund youth sports and recreation in two neighbouring First Nations.

The 10th annual Murray Lake Ice Fishing Derby, hosted by Saulteaux First Nation and Moosomin First Nation, returns March 7 with a growing reputation as one of the region’s largest winter fundraisers.

What began years ago as a casual outing among friends has steadily evolved into the major community event. Organizers said the funds raised help cover youth sports and recreation costs – from hockey and soccer to arena operations – ensuring more young people can take part.

“In my community, we 100 per cent pay for kids’ hockey fees, ball fees, soccer fees, all that,” said Chief Kenny Moccasin of Saulteaux First Nation. 

Moosomin First Nation Chief Quinton Swiftwolf said the derby also supports facility and program costs in his community. The derby typically raises between $30,000 and $40,000 annually for each community.

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The event will run from noon to 5 p.m., with registration open between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Organizers say participants will find a fully prepared ice setup awaiting them.

“Holes are pre-drilled,” Moccasin said. “Everything is situated on Murray Lake.”

A photo taken from a previous Murray Lake Ice Fishing Derby. (Image Credit: Saulteaux First Nation/Facebook)

Entry will take place at the Murray Lake boat launch, where vehicles begin lining up before spreading across the frozen surface.

With prize payouts increasing from $80,000 last year to $100,000 this time around, organizers expect turnout to climb as well.

“We expect probably about [up to] 700 fishermen, but with the added prize, a hundred thousand this year, I hope we may pick up an additional hundred or 200 fishermen.”

Top prizes include $30,000 for first place, with cash awards extending through 25th place, as well as hourly 50/50 draws and bonuses for the first and smallest fish caught.

Beyond the prize money, Swiftwolf said the event has become known for its family atmosphere and memorable moments on the ice.

“I think the big part about it is just seeing people out there, and it’s a family thing,” he said. “A 13-year-old winning a truck and an eight-year-old winning $25,000 last year.”

(Image Credit: Kenny Moccasin/Facebook)

“It’s just never too late to come, have a good time and spend a good time and building relationships and networking on the ice,” Swiftwolf said.

Participants are encouraged to come prepared for the weather and bring their fishing gear for a full day on the lake, with the possibility of leaving not only with a catch, but with a prize and a contribution to community programs that continue long after the ice melts.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com