Besides “big fish” prizes and cash for tagged fish caught, every young angler went home with a gift bag
By Brett Kelly, IDFG Fisheries Biologist, Salmon Region
Over 70 young anglers braved the winter weather at the 32nd Annual Kids’ Ice Fishing Derby held at Hyde Pond on Saturday, February 1.
While most participants were from Lemhi and Custer counties, kids from all across southeastern Idaho participated. Although the wind tested their patience, the kids were persistent and caught numerous fish and had a great time on the sledding hill.
The fishing derby featured a “biggest fish” contest that was divided into four age categories: 5 years and under, 6 to 9 yrs, 10 to 12 yrs, and 13 to 16 yrs. Big fish winners were 5-year-old Cora Oldham, 10-year-old Heston Huntsman, and 14-year-old Taenum Brundy.
The overall big fish caught during the derby was a 2.4 pound rainbow trout caught by London Wells in the 6 to 9-year-old category. Each winner received a rod and reel combo and a box of ice fishing jigs donated by Idaho Fish and Game.
There were also 13 tagged fish swimming around in the pond. Any kid who caught a tagged fish during the fishing derby won a $25 cash prize donated by local businesses, organizations, and private citizens. This year, three lucky kids caught a tagged fish during the derby. Besides the grand prizes and cash for tagged fish, every child went home with a gift bag donated by Idaho Fish and Game and the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
The derby is sponsored each year by the Salmon-Challis National Forest and Salmon Region-Idaho Department of Fish & Game. Additional support was provided by Lemhi County Road and Bridge and Pep’s Septic. Special thanks to all generous tag sponsors: Chad Fealko & Family, Zachary Salada, Greg and Windy Schoby, Trout Unlimited-River of No Return Chapter, Robert Rose, Lizzie Jossie, Karryl Krieger, Peter Christenson, and Manavi Thakkar.
We look forward to seeing you June 14, 2025, for the 30th Annual Kids Free Fishing Day Derby held at Kid’s Creek Pond in Salmon. The continued success of these fishing derbies depends upon generous sponsors, local businesses, and an engaged community who make the time to take kids fishing.