The weather at Ootsa Lake for the 30 annual Ootsa Lake fishing derby, hosted by the Tweedsmuir Recreation Committee, was phenomenal, and the visitors and locals who entered the derby were wonderful.

Supporters who were involved through volunteer time and outstanding prize donation were greatly appreciated with over 80 prizes given away.

We had 148 entrants, from as far as Fort Nelson and Saskatchewan, who attended with their friends and families to enjoy the Southside at its best.

Our first prize winner of $1,500, with a 9 pound 1-1/2 oz. fish was Bonnie Swaile.

Second prize winning $500, with an 8 pound 2-1/2 oz. fish was Sam Moroski.

Third prize taking home the much coveted electric down rigger with a 7 pound 13 oz. fish, was Danny Harrison.

Fourth prize winning $300, with a 7 pound 10-1/2 oz. fish, was Isaac Petkau.

Fifth prize, a Barbeque, was won by Bill Symes with a 7 pound 6-1/2 oz. fish.

Mark your 2014 calendar now for the next Labor Day weekend Ootsa Lake Fishing Derby. There are still some big ones out there to be caught.