The fourth annual Big Jack Classic fishing derby returned to Buffalo Lake over the Family Day long weekend.
The catch & release ice fishing event was limited to Northern Pike, with Burbot & White Sucker deemed inadmissible.
Some anglers reported fewer bites than in previous years, with several noting they hooked more Burbot when they did get action.
The online competition was run through the Angler’s Atlas website & its MyCatch mobile app, where participants submitted photographs for measurement & verification.
In the open division, Ron Harrington captured top spot with a 73-centimetre Northern Pike.
Braedon LeGrandeur placed second at 72 centimetres, while Joel Carlson also measured 72 centimetres to claim third.
In the junior division, Austyn McGuire won with a 70.5-centimetre Northern Pike.
Jaxson Carlson followed at 70 centimetres, & Leia Lapierre recorded a 67-centimetre fish for third in the unofficial results.
Lisa Roper was also on-site again this year to meet with anglers on the lake over the two day event.
Roper hosts Lisa Roper Outdoors on the World Fishing Network & Sportsman Channel Canada covering all things fishing related.
The derby, launched in 2023 by the Stettler Regional Board of Trade, was formally handed over this year to the Buffalo Lake Big Jack Classic Association.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
