Contributed by Deb Kirk
Big Lake Ice Fishing Derby 2017
February 18-19, 2017
For more details, contact the Big Lake Chamber of Commerce at (907) 892-6109 or biglake@mtaonline.net.
The Big Lake Chamber of Commerce kicks off its 7th Annual Ice Fishing on February 18th and 19th with two days of fun and prizes for all ages. The family-friendly event promotes the sport of ice fishing in the Mat-Su Borough community and encourage families to participate in a healthy outdoor event.
Last year’s derby had more than 300 anglers and organizers. This year, we are expecting an even bigger crowd. Why? Because we’ve added a little more excitement! This year’s event is scheduled to happen surrounding the energy of the Iron Dog restart and promises tons of fun to make it a memorable weekend for all.
In addition to the angling and the Iron Dog restart, the 2016 festivities include the Big Lake Trails (BLT) Family Fun Run! There will be checkpoints set up on the lake from 11:30 am until 4 pm on Saturday. Don’t have a snow-machine for the fun run? No worries! Make the checkpoints the best way you can on your four-wheelers or your feet! Just make them! And get back to the main-event tent to get your cards entered by the 4pm deadline for the BLT awards at 4:30pm on Saturday the 18th to win cash and prizes from BLT!
The Big Lake Derbies are designed for anglers of all ages. Cash prizes are awarded to 1st through 3rd place winners in the adult categories, Trout, Dolly and Women’s. Trophies are awarded to youth 1st through 3rd place in both Dolly and Trout categories. There are two youth age divisions: 10 to 15 and 9 and under.
The Big Lake Chamber does have a limited amount of gear available for those who may need to borrow a pole and plenty of manpower to drill ice holes for anyone!
There’s more! The Big Lake Chamber, thanks to Arctic Cat, has added a tagged-fish element to the traditional derby and raffle event. The prizes are going to be fantastic! Arctic Cat has sponsored a high dollar prize package. All you have to do is catch the tagged fish.
This year’s raffle prizes will be as big as ever, with tons of prizes be rolling in between now and the derby. There are lots of chances to win big and this every kid entered wins a prize!
Remember you don’t have to fish to win and you don’t have to win the top prize to have fun! Arctic Cat will be out there with us offering demo rides (weather permitting). 2017 Big Lake Ice Fishing Derby promises to be the best yet!
Get your tickets now! They are available at Arctic Cat Dealerships (Anchorage and Big Lake), Hilda’s Barber Shop (Wasilla and Eagle River) or at the Big Lake Chamber office. Tickets will be available the day of the derby but why risk it? Get them now!
It is never too late to get involved. The Chamber encourages those interested in being part of the event to check in with Deb Kirk at 892-6109.
