More than 100 anglers took part in the seventh annual ice fishing derby hosted by the Township of Laurentian Valley last month.
The event was held Feb. 21 on Lemke Lake and drew 102 participants for an afternoon of fishing and community activities.
Mitchel King won the prize for longest fish, while Matthew Pilon placed second and Ryker Pilon finished third.
Mitchell and Grace King posing with their winning fish.
Town officials thanked volunteers and community members who helped organize the event, including outdoor recreation supporter Rick Klatt and volunteers from LV 50+ Fit & Feisty.
Organizers also acknowledged members of the Molson family for preparing trails and helping get the lake ready for the derby.
Local businesses and organizations donated prizes and supported the event, including Reiche Law, Valley Dumpster Inc., Century 21 sales representative Brandon Beaulieu, financial adviser Tommy Serran of Frank Carroll Financial, Town & Country Men’s Shop, Mike’s Hardware, The Farmstead Weddings & Events, Priceless Maintenance, Dinesen Tackle and The Pickle Vixens.
Food and refreshments for participants were also provided with help from Wholesale Club and Valley Buns Bakery & Deli, while hot chocolate and coffee were served by volunteers from LV 50+ Fit & Feisty.
Additional support for the event’s hot dog luncheon came from local agents with Royal LePage Edmonds & Associates Realty.
Town officials say the annual derby relies on the support of volunteers, sponsors and residents, and they plan to host the event again in 2027.
(Steve Berard)