In the spirit of celebration, let’s take a moment to reflect on the roots of this cherished event.
Forty years ago, a group of visionaries, including Danny Mara, Tim Spalding, Richard Brill, Chico Morin, Bob Killips, Skip Bray, Robert Hedberg, Randy Vadnais, Ed Jokippi, Harold Groom, Wayne Ingalls, and other dedicated individuals, embarked on a mission to create an event for kids. What started as a kids fishing tournament has evolved into a cherished family event held annually on the Free Fishing Weekend in February.
The event’s evolution has been fueled by the dedication of numerous volunteers from the Moose Lodge and committed community members. Notable names like Scot Adair, Jim Butcher, Rick Cota, Colin Johnson, Ken Kleeman, Gene Spaulding, Robert Gilson, and the Women of the Moose have played pivotal roles over the years, providing meals and contributing to the event’s success.
“We started this initially as an event for kids, and it’s grown into a family event,” said Al Weymouth, Munising Moose Lodge Administrator. “We couldn’t be more delighted to have this yearly fundraiser turn 40 years old. That’s 40 years of community engagement and local outreach.”
As we celebrate 40 years of the Munising Moose Lodge Fishing Derby, we extend our gratitude to individuals like Bill Stapleton, Chuck Phillipson, Doris Phillipson, CJ Phillipson, Nancy Phillipson, Arron Sears, Russ Nesberg, Don Livermore, Charlie Vartti, and Gary Kivel, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in making this event a success. With their dedication and the continued support of the community, we hope to carry this tradition forward for another 40 years.
Now, let’s dive into the exciting details of the 40th Annual Fishing Derby!
Event Details.
- Saturday, February 17, 2024
Location.
- Au Train Lake at the Boat House, LaValley’s Corner
Time.
- Registration: 6:00 am to 10:00 am only
- Fishing: 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Fish Submission (Hard) Deadline: 3:00 pm
Registration Information.
- Entry Fee: $20
- Children (12 and under): Free with a registered adult
Included.
- Chili and Soup meal
In Celebration of the 40th Annual Event.
This year, we are thrilled to announce an exciting addition to the festivities. In honor of the 40th Annual Event, we are adding $40 to each adult prize, making the competition even more enticing!
Post-Derby Celebration.
Following an exhilarating day on the ice, head back to the Munising Moose Lodge for a scrumptious chili and soup meal. The post-derby festivities will kick off around 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
Prizes.
Kids Division (12 and under):
- $300 Kids Cash Prizes and Trophies
Adult Division:
- $1,080 in Cash Prizes
Categories and Breakdown of Prizes.
Three Exciting Categories: Pike, Perch and Walleye for the Adult Division:
Pike:
- 1st Prize: $150.00 + $40.00
- 2nd Prize: $100.00 + $40.00
- 3rd Prize: $75.00 + $40.00
Perch:
- 1st Prize: $150.00 + $40.00
- 2nd Prize: $100.00 + $40.00
- 3rd Prize: $75.00 + $40.00
Walleye:
- 1st Prize: $150.00 + $40.00
Kids Division (12 and under):
Pike:
- 1st Prize: $75.00
- 2nd Prize: $50.00
- 3rd Prize: $25.00
Perch:
- 1st Prize: $75.00
- 2nd Prize: $50.00
- 3rd Prize: $25.00
Important Notes.
- Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend: Enjoy fishing without a license during this special occasion.
- Meal: A hearty meal will be provided at the Munising Moose Lodge after the derby.
Bring along your fishing gear, invite your friends and family, and immerse yourself in a fantastic day of fishing, camaraderie, and the chance to win exciting prizes at the Munising Moose Lodge’s 40th Annual Fishing Derby. Let’s make this event a reel success!
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