Fishermen registered for the 32nd annual Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby will have a chance to catch one of three Trophy Fish that could be worth $5,000, $10,000 or $20,000, according to Stacy Crimmins, Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce executive director.
Those who are not lucky enough to nab the Trophy Fish still have a chance to net other prizes including the $2,000 first place prize for catching the largest fish of the two-day event.
The annual derby begins at 7 a.m., Jan. 17 at Saratoga Lake and boasts over $6,000 in guaranteed cash prizes including the $2,000 first place prize.
The second biggest fish will earn $1,000 and the third largest gets $500.
Each hour the biggest fish of the hour wins $100.
The Bounty Fish, which has a pink tag behind the dorsal fin is worth $500 to the lucky angler.
Small Fry fishermen can compete for hourly awards of $20, plus a grand prize of $100 and a merchandise package.
Back by popular demand is the “Best Hut” contest for the most creative, eye-catching, yet still legal fishing huts. The winner gets bragging rights for the year.
New this year is online registration. Fill out the form at saratogachamber.info/fishing derby and pay by credit card. Be sure to print the receipt and bring it to the derby.
Anglers who prefer to register in person, can do so during office hours up to 9 p.m., Jan. 16 at the Chamber office at 210 W. Elm Ave. in Saratoga.
Registration at Saratoga Lake begins at 6 a.m. Jan. 17.
Fishermen can also register at any retail shop that sells fishing licenses in Saratoga and Riverside.
Volunteers at the fishing derby are always looking for a good story. Anglers can stop by the derby tent anytime to tell their story.
Whether the story is about the one that got away or a close call with death, the winning story will be added to the chamber website.
For more information, contact the chamber at 307-326-8855.
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