More than 200 anglers bundled up and headed onto Shoal Lake on March 14 for the annual Ernie Welburn Memorial Family Fishing Fun Day, hosted by the Woodlands & District Wildlife Association.
Despite temperatures dipping to –12 C, calm conditions and a lack of wind made for a near-perfect day on the ice. A total of 228 participants registered for the event — the largest turnout in its history — including 81 youth anglers eager to test their skills.
To help young fishers get started, the first 40 children to register received either a stocked tackle tray or an ice fishing rod.
Ice fishing tents and shacks dotted the frozen lake as anglers drilled holes both inside shelters and out in the open while waiting for a bite. Between fishing attempts, children took advantage of the snowy surroundings, playing on nearby hills and enjoying rides on snowmobiles.
Volunteers with the Woodlands & District Wildlife Association also served a free hot dog lunch, adding to the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere of the day.
Organizers thanked the many volunteers and supporters who helped make the event possible, including those who assisted with snow clearing, provided access across private property and contributed donations.
Several anglers also landed impressive catches during the event.
In the youth division, Oakley Adams caught the largest perch measuring 13 3/8 inches — a master angler catch — while Chase Richaud landed the biggest northern pike at 26 3/4 inches.
In the adult division, Grady Gerrard reeled in the largest perch at 13 7/16 inches, also qualifying as a master angler catch, and Mel Meisner recorded the largest pike at 22 inches. Carter Fleury caught the smallest fish — a 6 1/4 inch perch.
The event is held in memory of Ernie Welburn, who played a key role in establishing the angling division within the Woodlands & District Wildlife Association and was a driving force behind the club’s youth programming.
Welburn passed away in 2018, and organizers say the annual fishing day continues to honour his passion for fishing, the outdoors, family and community by bringing people together on the ice each year.
