Jimmy Jackfish Fishing Derby on Rocky Lake

Second and third place will be going home with a cool $7000 and $3000 as well. Held on Rocky Lake just north of The Pas, this ice fishing event draws competitors from all over the province and neighbouring Saskatchewan.

As its name suggests, this competition is all about who can catch the longest northern pike. The derby averages over 200 fish measured every year with the top three winning pike last season coming in at 30, 29, and 27 inches respectively. Not much else gets caught species wise but there is a ‘Wilma Walleye’ side competition for which ever angler that can hook into a rare razorback. $1090 in cash went to a lucky angler in 2018.

The Jimmy Jackfish is organized by a dedicated group of six individuals on the committee and an army of volunteers who help make this one of the premiere ice derbies in the province. What started in 1997 as a small gathering has evolved into what is today and continues to get bigger and better with over 650 people competing last year.

All proceeds from the derby benefit various local community enhancement projects such as recycling programs and angling initiatives. Funds also go to community groups in the area including The Pas Kinsmen, Rocky Lake East Shore Association, Midwest Karate Club, and the Cranberry Portage Trout Challenge.

Tickets for the event are $80 ($40 second hole) and can be purchased at Pete’s Pro Tackle and Northland Leisure in The Pas and at We Ste General Store near the derby site in Wanless. Tickets can also be purchased online at there website jimmyjackfish.com. All 17 listed prize placings on the poster are guaranteed including the top three cash awards. There are raffle prizes throughout the day including five ice augers donated by Pete’s Pro Tackle, a Kinsmen Club beer garden, and the Midwest Karate Club concession stand.

For more information visit jimmyjackfish.com