There was a massive turnout for the 33rd annual Big Lake Fishing Derby during the weekend.
Beautiful, sunny skies and calm waters greeted more than 220 participants from the north, south and central Cariboo.
“Many families came out to enjoy some fun fishing,” Big Lake Community Association vice-president Marianne Woods said.
“A highlight this year was the Candy Barge operated by Adam and Jessika Woods loaded with supplies … fishing lures, line, bate … also hamburgers and hot dogs barbecued on board, cold refreshments and candy.”
A beer garden also proved to be popular where many participants could sit down to relax while sharing fishing stories.
During the derby a progressive auction with more than 55 donated items to bid on was held.
More than 150 people also danced the night away at the Big Lake Community Hall with live music by Akimbo of Quesnel.
“A huge thanks to everyone who came out to the derby and dance and to all the volunteers in the community that helped throughout the weekend,” Marianne said. “Also, a huge thanks to our sponsors. Without them we would not be able to offer the cash prizes and giveaway prizes throughout the weekend. All the proceeds from the derby will go toward building a new caretaker’s residence.”
The following are the winners from the derby:
Adult Largest Rainbow Trout
1.) Haleigh Roi ($1,000) - 1.52 pounds
2.) Doug Mercer ($500) - 1.46 pounds
3.) Dan Storoschuk ($250) - 1.38 pounds
Youth Largest Rainbow Trout
1.) Jarret Roi ($300) - 1.18 pounds
2.) Jada Schuetze ($150) - 1.1 pounds
3.) Colby Ostrom (won a fishing rod) - 1.04 pounds
Largest Kokanee
1.) Jarret Roi ($100) - 1.34 pounds
Progressive 50/50 - Joe Pyrczak
Dance 50/50 - Diane Langstrom
Winner of the Quad Raffle (2016 Honda TRX420 Rancher, valued at $10,857) - Mitchell Watt