Derby and banquet raise money for local charities

The first annual Noxon Reservoir Walleye Derby kicked off Saturday as anglers gathered at the Flatiron boat ramp outside Thompson Falls to attempt to catch the elusive fish. Twelve two-person teams launched their boats and fished from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. before gathering at the Lakeside Motel in Trout Creek for the accompanying banquet fundraiser.

The events were organized by the Noxon Warm Water Fisheries Association, a group formed to promote the responsible management of fisheries in Montana. Noxon Reservoir has recently been the site of controversy over Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks proposed effort to suppress the population of the walleye in the reservoir.

NWWFA President Paul Rossignol stood over the railing at the Flatiron boat dock and waved an orange flag to signal the start of the derby. The twelve teams fanned over the reservoir, sending lures flying into the water and waited for the notoriously elusive walleye to strike.

According to Rossignol, a few did. “We caught five walleye. The biggest was almost six pounds. Not huge but a good sized walleye.”

All fish caught were immediately weighed and measured and then released.

The turnout for the fundraising banquet was much higher than for the actual derby. About 180 people showed up to the Lakeside Motel for the charity event. The event raised $500 for the Sanders County Sheriff’s Relief Fund that helps families in need during the holidays. The banquet also raised $100 for a Kids Fishing Day to be held at a later date in Trout Creek.

As attendees enjoyed the banquet feast that included a whole roast pig cooked over an open fire behind the motel, items up for auction were put on display around the hall. Fishing rods and reels, a rifle, and a guided fishing trip were all up for grabs to the highest bidder.

Displayed behind the auctioneer were the results of the morning’s derby. First place went to Stan Fisher and Barry Cole. Coming in at second place was the team of Bob Hickey and Jason Mundel and third went to Doug and Kelly Jacobi.

Rossignol said the day was a huge accomplishment for the community.

“Everybody had a great time. It was a complete success.”

According to Rossignol, the day’s events were intended to promote walleye fishing in the area and specifically on Noxon Reservoir. A proposal to suppress the walleye population on the reservoir is currently under examination by Montana FWP after weeks of public scrutiny and comment.

To date, no decision has been made regarding the proposal that asserts that the walleye is an invasive, illegally introduced species that threatens other native fisheries.