Teulon Game and Fish hosted its annual Family Fishing Derby Day on Saturday, June 7, at Norris Lake, where participants of all ages braved high winds and approaching storm clouds for a day of outdoor fun and environmental education.
Despite the weather, spirits remained high as families gathered at the newly improved provincial park. This year’s derby drew 65 prize entries, including 35 youth participants who each received a free tackle box. As a catch-and-release event, every participant who caught a fish received a ticket, automatically entering them in the prize draw. The youngest angler to take part was just three years old.
“We just want to try and make it so that you don’t need to catch a fish, as long as you’re there supporting the outdoor experience,” said Debbie Coverdale of Teulon Game and Fish.
Selkirk–Interlake–Eastman MP James Bezan and Lakeside MLA Trevor King were on hand to speak about the value of having a public park like Norris Lake in the region. Both were also briefed on recent Game and Fish initiatives, including extensive garbage cleanup efforts, structural upgrades to the washroom facilities, and the installation of a new dock, 10 new picnic tables, and fire pits donated anonymously. Parks Canada also contributed lumber and supplies.
The derby officially opened at 10 a.m., welcoming families eager to see the refreshed grounds and enjoy a no-cost fishing experience—no boat or license required.
“We’re very thankful for all the families that showed up to brave the weather and participate, and for all the people that donated prizes and tackle,” said Coverdale. “I just hope that, for anybody that came out, the day sparked something in these little boys and girls—a lifelong love for the outdoors and the opportunities that Manitoba has. I’ve been fishing my whole life, and now just to continue that and see the responsibility these kids are learning—it helps keep lakes like this available for everyone.”
Each child in attendance was able to select a prize from the table—choices included kites, birdhouses, and frisbees—and food and beverages were provided throughout the event.
Proceeds from the derby will go back into the club’s programming, with the exception of a $500 donation presented by Game and Fish vice-president Doug Coverdale to Bezan and King in support of local wildfire initiatives.
Top honours went to Jace Gretchen, who won the youth category by catching multiple fish and collecting the most tickets. In the adult category, Pat Burdett took home first place.
Looking ahead, Teulon Game and Fish hopes to revive its Junior Rifle Program, which teaches youth safe gun handling practices at the Gunton Memorial Hall. The group is also exploring partnerships with regional sports and activity committees to offer programming such as archery and other outdoor skills.
