Big prizes for big bass at 19th annual Portland and District Fishing Derby

Jul 10, 2014

It is the generosity of the sponsors coupled with great fishing on the back lakes surrounding Hartington that attract bass fishers year after year from far and wide to the annual Portland and District Firefighters' Bass Derby. The derby this year attracted close to 100 participants, a little fewer than last year but making for a greater chance for fishers to win big.

Over 50 sponsors from local businesses and individuals donated items and the biggest sponsors of this year's derby included Percy Snider and L.D. Powersports, who donated a 13 foot Smoker Craft bass boat, and Leonard Fuels, who donated a trailer. The second prize was a Mark 4 HDI fish finder and third prize was a Shakespeare electric 38 pound trolling motor. The first place prize for youngsters was a CCM Mountain bike and every child received a prize; many left with brand new fishing rods.

The event included a 50/50 draw. Funds raised from the derby are used to help the firefighters purchase necessary equipment for the hall. Volunteer firefighter Ron Neil announced the winners after the 5pm weigh in and many happy fishers young and old left the fire hall with prizes under their arms. Congratulations to Stan Babcock, whose 4.38 pound catch landed him the boat and trailer and congratulations to all of the winners of the day.