The Interlake Tourism Association (ITA) and the RM of Gimli have teamed up to get people hooked on Lake Winnipeg and the great outdoors with an ice-fishing photo contest.
The RM and its recreation department is inviting people to pick up a Gimli-branded fishing lure at a local sponsor in Gimli or Winnipeg Beach in exchange for a perishable food item, which will go to the Evergreen Basic Needs food bank.
With their lures in hand, anglers can head out to Gimli’s ice-fishing village where they can take a snap of their catch and lucky lure, tag #rmgimlimb and earn a chance to win a prize.
The ITA provided funding to the RM for 250 Gimli-branded fishing lures.
“The RM is grateful for the ITA grant, which provided the incentive to launch this initiative,” said Gimli CAO D.J. Sigmundson.
The idea for the photo contest and the branded lures originated with staff at the recreation and leisure department, he said. And generous community sponsors are donating prizes.
Gimli Home Hardware donated two $15 gift certificates, one $20 gift certificate and two ice-fishing rods then “doubled their sponsorship after the initial items were claimed quickly.” Carlos Cucina (Gimli) donated two $25 gift certificates and a T-shirt. The Lakeview Resort Gimli donated two $25 gift certificates. Bruce’s Marine (Gimli) donated one $50 gift certificate. Winnipeg Beach’s Park Place Meat & Grocery donated two $25 gift certificates. And Interlake Brewery donated two $25 gift certificates.
Interlake Tourism Association manager Dee King said the Interlake, and Gimli in particular, offers year-round experiences.
The fishing photo contest is a great example of how tourism can be community-driven and bring locals and visitors together.
“What makes this project special to Interlake Tourism and our Tourism Development Grant is that it tells the story of Gimli through the people who actually live, work and spend time here. It’s a natural way for residents and visitors to share authentic experiences and showcase what makes the area unique,” said King. “I really see this as capturing the spirit of Gimli. Tourism works best when it is collaborative, and this brings together local businesses, anglers, families and visitors to collectively share real moments rather than staged promotion.”
People can head out on the ice after they pick up a lure, spend time with their friends and family and share those experiences online.
“To me, that creates a full circle where you are supporting local businesses, connecting with a welcoming ice fishing community and helping tell the broader story of the region,” said King. “Tourism is about atmosphere as much as attractions. I always emphasize that you are not just telling people what exists somewhere — you’re showing the vibe, the fun and the energy of a place.”
The Gimli fishing photo contest runs until April 5.
Visit Gimli Rec on Facebook for more information about the contest and the fishing village or call the recreation centre at 1-204-642-6670.
