The 33rd annual Hawg Ice fishing Derby will take place February 5th and 6th at Pathfinder Reservoir. With recent cold weather finally making the ice safe enough for fishing, organizers expect the event to draw over 800 competitors who will be looking to cash in on prizes and have fun pulling some lunkers through the ice. 

Tali Wagner (12), whose family owns Wagner’s Outdoors Outfitter, explained “It’s a fun experience. Being able to see large groups of folks get out on the ice and fish is incredible.” The tournament is a great way to put fishing skills to use and compete for big prizes. “Nowadays people don’t get out enough and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors,” Wagner explained. 

There are lots of different prizes, from small fish, to most fish, to biggest fish, and the family-friendly atmosphere is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. It is a way to get out there and even win some expensive gear. “I love to see younger kids get out and fish,” Tali claims. 

Tickets are $40 for anyone over the age of 14, and youth tickets are $20. Tickets have to be purchased at the site. Thanks to many sponsors there will be cash prizes for the winners, and door prizes will be raffled off at the end of the tournament. Door prices will be similar to last year, ranging from cheap hooks, up to tip ups and more. Cash prizes will be donated by sponsors including Wagner’s, Rocky Mountain Discount Sports, Salons General Store, and Smith’s RV.