Duck Lake derby fishermen rewarded

March certainly came in like a lion for the anglers who were on the ice for the Duck Lake fishing derby last weekend. The derby, which was postponed and rescheduled, was a fundraiser for the Babb-St. Mary Volunteer Fire Department on Saturday and Sunday.

Stinging snow was brutal, especially for the fishermen who did not have an ice house or shelter. The fishermen persisted, appearing oblivious to the conditions (as any fishermen will tell you is the right thing to do) and were rewarded by the weather improving by afternoon and Sunday turning out to be a crisp but gorgeous day with some sunshine.

Money brought is vital to provide funds for equipment and expenses to keep the volunteer fire department operating, according to a news release. The derby also provides an opportunity for all of the surrounding communities to come together to enjoy the sport of fishing, to participate in the competition of catching the longest fish for prize money, and to enjoy the social activities of visiting with each other, enjoying concession food, and sharing entertaining "fish" stories.

In the Adult category, the first-place prize went to Richard Roberts of Lethbridge, Alberta for his fish that measured 21 7/8 inches. That was just longer than the fish caught by second place Ben Timlick of Browning. Third went to Rod Taylor of Browning (20 5/8") and there was a four-way tie for fourth place shared by Doug Crail and Jenny Kimmett of Cut Bank, Will Thrasher of Polson, and Andrew Hougen of Foremost, Alberta.

In the Children's category, the first-place prize was awarded to Tiara Santos for her fish that measured just over 18 inches. Jasmine Spotted Bear of Babb was second (17 3/8"), BJ Rollins of Kalispell third (15 3/4") and Wyatt Crawford of Columbia Falls fourth (11+"). The prize money for the children's event along with a prize for each child that registered to fish were from a donation made by Carra Higgins and the Two Sisters Cafe (in Memory of Don Higgins).

Many showed their support of the fire department by donating prizes or cash, time and supplies to make the event a success. These donations allowed tickets to be drawn throughout both days to award prizes to the participants. Pat Thomas of the Blackfeet Tribal Council personally donated $100 to show his support of the event.

Saturday's 50/50 drawing winner was Jerry Hasil of Lethbridge, Alberta; he received $350.50. On Sunday, Stan Walchuk of Ronan won $384.00 in the drawing. Walchuk generously donated his winnings to the Babb-St. Mary Volunteer Fire Department to help with the fundraiser.