Legally hooking for money

For the 36th year, the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce (SPVCC) invites everyone to compete in the Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby. Taking place on Jan. 19 and 20, participants will have the opportunity to win the $2,000 first prize by catching the largest fish during the two-day derby. There are also over $6,000 in cash prizes and up to $35,000 in additional prize money available, according to a press release from the SPVCC. Those catching the second and third largest fish during the derby will win $1,000 and $500, respectively.

While the biggest fish may bring in some cash, catching the specially tagged Trophy Trout will bring in even more money as any one of three could be worth $5,000, $10,000 or $20,000.

Rocky Jones, of Arvada, Colo., was the lucky winner during the 2018 Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby catching a Trophy Trout worth $12,500.

Along with the three Trophy Trout, there will also be plenty of Bounty Fish to keep an eye out for. The first of these fish caught and verified, identified by the pink tag behind the dorsal fin, will be worth $500. Hourly cash prizes of $100 will be also be awarded for the largest fish measured that hour. Those under 14, in the small fry division, can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of $200 or hourly awards of $20. Hourly door prizes will also be given.

Additionally, if the Rainbow Trout aren’t biting, participants can catch a few sucker fish in an attempt to win the Sucker Skirmish. Introduced last year, those who catch the “Biggest Sucka” can win up to $500, as can those who catch the most sucker fish during the derby.

Another competition returning this year is that of “Best Hut,” in which those who have the most creative, eye-catching hut, while still being legal, can win bragging rights for a whole year.

During the derby, fishermen are also encouraged to stop at the Derby Tent and share their “Best Fishing Story.”

Derby hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday and concessions will be available all weekend. Registration for the 36th Annual Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby is $35 for adults and $10 for the small fry division. Online registration is available by visiting http://www.saratogachamber.info/fishingderby. Those who register online will not have to check in at derby headquarters. Those wishing to register in person can do so by visiting the SPVCC office at 210 W. Elm St. in Saratoga during office hours and on the night of Jan. 18 until 8 p.m. Participants can also register at the lake Saturday morning, beginning at 6 a.m.

For more information, call 307-326-8855, email [email protected] or visit www.saratogachamber.info/fishingderby.