Ottawa’s largest ice fishing derby hits Petrie Island this weekend

“It’s our usual mid-February thaw, so it may be a little slushy for the next few days, but we’ll get some cold soon and things will be back to normal,” says Oziles’ tackle shop owner Yves Grandmaitre, who expects around 150-200 participants in the CHEO derby.

Ice fishing will cost $35 per hole, with a $10 credit to Oziles’ included to pay for a tip-up station and bait, or anything else if participants have their own fishing rods. The general entrance fee is $5 if not fishing, with other activities such as sleigh rides, hot chocolate and winter games taking place.

A $500 cash prize will be awarded to both the largest pike and pan fish caught at the event, which also includes an evening of door prizes and all-you-can-eat spaghetti at Jonny Canuck’s (with a price tag of $10 for non-ice fishing participants).

Registration begins at 9 a.m. for ice fishing, which runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with all proceeds from the event going to CHEO.

For more information, visit www.cheoderby.com