Ice fishing fever hits Aylmer as community gears up for 4th annual derby
Jude Osmond
The ice fishing derby is back in Aylmer for a 4th straight year, February 28 at the marina near the boat launch. As in past years, Aydelu is partnering with the fishing group called 819 Fishing Tactics.
The event is on a first-come, first-served basis, with an entry fee of $30 for adults and $15 for kids under 12.
Registration starts at 7 am on the day of, and the event ends at 3 pm.
Past derbies have been a lot of fun and have brought people together; last year, the derby sold out by 8:30 am, with around 290 people attending.
This is a charity event, with the proceeds going to a charity of their choice.
The prizes in the derby are distributed very evenly, with most participants who sign up receiving one.
Kids and adults receive prizes at the end of the day. Prizes last year included: a smoker, an ice auger, a salmon charter, etc.
819 Fishing Tactics is partnering with the Aylmer Rod and Gun Club to host an event for kids during the derby called 819 Kids Learn How to Fish.
After the event, everyone is invited to a dinner at the Aydelu Centre at 5 pm.
