Riverton anglers are already gearing up for one of the community’s most anticipated winter traditions, as preparations are underway for the 2026 Riverton Ice Fishing Derby, set for Feb. 16. The derby draws participants from across the Interlake each year, filling the ice with anglers of all ages hoping to hook a prize fish — and enjoy a day outdoors with family and friends.
Early bird tickets are now on sale and must be purchased by Dec. 22. Everyone who buys early will be entered into a draw for $600, generously donated by the Riverton Ladies Djórfung Aid. Tickets are $45 for adults and $25 for youth 17 and under.
Early bird tickets are available at:
• Riverton-Bifrost Parks and Recreation Commission – Kyra Toderan
• Riverton & District Friendship Centre
• Riverton Minor Hockey – Ross Copper & Shane Sigurdson
• Wayne Furgala
• Riverton Co-op – Darlene Yaremus
• Canco Gas Station
• Gimli Home Hardware
While fishing is central to the excitement, organizers emphasize the derby’s broader purpose. According to Kyra Toderan, recreation and community development coordinator, the event is designed not only to bring people together, but to give back.
“The Riverton Ice Fishing Derby is a non-profit, community-driven event that raises funds for local organizations and public facilities,” she said. “Our purpose is to provide an affordable, family-oriented experience while strengthening the community through financial support.”
Proceeds from the 2026 derby will be distributed as follows:
• 40% – Riverton Minor Hockey
• 20% – Djórfung Ladies Aid (Pergola floor project)
• 20% – Riverton Transportation & Heritage Centre
• 20% – Riverton & District Friendship Centre
Toderan said events like this only happen through community involvement.
“Every ticket sale keeps programs affordable and supports services people rely on,” she said. “It also showcases Riverton as a welcoming, vibrant community while supporting local business and bringing visitors to town.”
The 2025 derby, Riverton’s first annual event, exceeded all expectations:
– 230 adult tickets
– 87 youth tickets
– $17,000+ in prizes
– $16,000 profit donated back to the community, split between Riverton Minor Hockey and the Riverton Transportation & Heritage Centre
Because of that momentum, organizers expect 2026 to be bigger, more efficient and even more community-centred, with pre-drilled holes, warming trailers and food on-site again.
From sunrise preparations to the final prize draws, derby day is described as electric.
The morning begins with a pancake breakfast, followed by a rush of families and seasoned anglers heading onto Lake Winnipeg. Youth run between holes, volunteers circulate with coffee, and the sound of fish stories fills the air. As the final draws begin at Riverton Hall, the crowd buzzes with anticipation — a celebration as much about community as it is about fishing.
Prize packages for 2026 will be announced closer to the event, but anglers can expect another strong lineup of cash categories and donated prizes, similar to last year’s $17,000 prize pool.
What participants need to know:
• Fishing takes place within a marked derby zone
• Manitoba angling regulations apply
• Start and end times must be followed
• Rules provided with ticket purchase
• Pre-drilled holes provided
• Bring your own gear — no rentals available
• Warming trailers and food available on-site
“The derby is for everyone,” said Toderan. “You don’t need to be a pro — just someone who enjoys a good community day. Whether you fish, volunteer or just join for breakfast and prizes, you’re part of what makes this special.”
For more information, contact rivertonicefishingderby@gmail.com or visit the Riverton Ice Fishing Derby Facebook page.
