The hooks are baited and the lake is stocked, but Mother Nature has other plans for the Family Fishing Derby. The Fourth Annual fundraising event was set to take place next weekend on Sunday, January 15, but unfortunately, due to the unexpected recent mild temperatures, the event is postponed and rescheduled for February 12. For safety concerns, colder weather and more snow are needed to ensure the ice can withstand all of the activities planned. However, luckily for participants, the date change allows for an an extra month to purchase tickets.
Look forward to the main ice fishing competition, in which the first prize winner will walk away with a 16ft Jon Fishing Boat and Trailer generously donated by FAB-RITE Services. There will also be door prizes, a silent auction, and 50/50 draw. Kids get excited for milk jug bowling, snow paint, tug-o-war, hat-trick games, and toboggan races. Enjoy a sleigh ride with the Fort Steele Clydesdales, or a sled ride with Adrenaline Dog Sled Tours. In addition, there will be contests for the Best Dressed Dog, and the Best Dressed Toboggan. Indulge with chili, hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee, and treats all available by donation. A unique aspect of the event, for the third consecutive year, a draw will be made for a Disneyland vacation. All children facing cancer are eligible, and thanks to Dacota Freight, one lucky winner and their family will receive a much deserved vacation at the place where dreams come true.
Thanks to overwhelming community support, last year was a tremendous success attracting close to 2,000 participants and raising $21,000. There is hope for the same outcome this year, and any donations would be greatly appreciated. For those who are able to help, please contact familyfishingderby@gmail.com. All of the proceeds stay local as emergency aid, with partial proceeds supporting child cancer programs with B.C. Friends of Children and the Canadian Cancer Society. Tickets are only $10 for adults, and $5 for children and seniors. Tickets are available in Cranbrook at Barber’s on Ninth and Mountain Man Outdoors; in Kimberley at Black Bear Books & Video; in Fernie at Extra Foods; and at the Fort Steele Resort & RV Park. Join in the fun, and show your support for local children on the new date of Sunday, February 12 from 10a.m. to 3p.m at Horseshoe Lake. A Kootenay-wide event focused on celebrating family fun while helping children in need, the family fishing derby really is “all about the kids.”