Hook one this weekend in honour of Reg

Johnson Township recreation committee and Fire department are hosting the Second Annual Reg McHale Memorial Big Pike Derby, June 25 as a fundraiser for both departments.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. at the Johnson Township Public Dock, Highway 17 and Lake Huron Drive, Desbarats.

All entries must be in by 3 p.m.

Early registration will be available at Stobie's Family Restaurant at 7 a.m.

Entry fee is $15 for adults, $5 for children 14 and under or $25 for family (two related adults plus children under 14 who are siblings).

In 2015, 130 avid anglers of all ages took part in the inaugural event. The grand prize, a 802mm (31.5 inch) pike was awarded to Nathan Grasley.

Registration and measurements will occur at the Johnson Township Public Dock. 

Boats can launch at the dock, public ramp at Kensington Point or at a launch of their choosing.

All fishing should take place in Lake Huron.

The Johnson Township Fire department will be holding a barbecue from noon to 4 p.m. at the registration site to help raise funds for equipment and programming.

The Martin (Reg) McHale Memorial Plaque and Grand prize of $250 will be awarded for the longest pike, a tie goes to the first fish registered.

McHale, who passed away May 20, 2015, was an avid outdoorsman, a huge supporter of the Johnson Township Big Buck contest, a past member of the fire department that ran a similar derby in the 1980's and 1990's.

There will be trophy and cash prizes awarded to first, second and third runner ups for adults, as well, first, second and third place runner up trophies and special prizes for youth. There will be draw prize opportunities for all registrants at the end of the day.

The recreation committee will ensure that every child registered receives a prize.

Johnson Township recreation and Fire Department remind anglers who wish to enter that ll Ontario Fishing and Boating regulations be followed.

For more information contact Pat O'Gorman at 705-782-6601, ext. 1-205 or email patrick.ogorman@johnsontownship.ca