Out on the frigid ice of Farm Lake, skidoo tracks zigzagged through the snow to a variety of huts and tents, as the Raymond Johnston Community Centre in Otter Lake hosted the fifth annual fishing derby in support of the local recreation association on Saturday.
Recreation association president Shane Presley said that they had 180 registrations for the event, which was a big success.
“They’ve been out on the ice since quarter to six this morning,” he said during the breakfast that was served at the hall. “They’re Otter Lake diehards, and right now [9:30 a.m.] we’ve had five or six fish brought in already.”
In addition to the outdoor activities, which included some lessons in cross-country skiing, there was a Texas hold ‘em tournament as well as a DJ in the evening.
Presley said that the proceeds would be going towards the RA’s activities for youth in the area.
One long-term project that they are looking at is the construction of a domed roof over the outdoor rink.
“This is put on by the RA, we do this every year, all the proceeds go back to the kids of Otter Lake,” he said. “We try to do everything for the kids.”
Fishing derby winners were Robbie Lafleur (15 and one quarter inch), with Devon Lafleur and Paul Arbour tied for second (15 inch). Devon Lafleur also caught the third place fish.
