Skip to content

Anglers casting for pinks and prizes

NANAIMO: Anglers can hook great prizes during fishing derby Saturday and Sunday in Maffeo Sutton Park.
4596nanaimoKayakweb
Chris Hillier

Anglers looking to hook a pink salmon can also snag great prizes this weekend during the second annual Kayak Fishing Derby in Maffeo Sutton Park.

The derby, hosted by Alberni Outpost, runs Saturday and Sunday (Sept. 1-2) and features fly fishing demonstrations, a discussion on keeping up proper nutrition when on the water and in the sun, a kayak expo and various outdoor adventure vendors.

Saturday the event runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday it runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Beverly Hampson, spokeswoman for Alberni Outpost, said the fishing derby is great for families to come out and enjoy some fun during the long weekend before kids head back to school.

“It’s set to be a really fun weekend,” said Hampson.

The entry fee is $35 and includes a salmon barbecue lunch prepared by the Nanaimo and Area Land Trust.

Proceeds from the event go to the Nanaimo River Fish Hatchery in Cassidy.

People can pre-purchase their entry tickets at the Alberni Outpost location in Country Club Centre and at Gone Fishing, located at 600-2980 North Island Highway.

Anglers must be in possession of a valid fishing licence which they must purchase separately.

The derby is for pink salmon only and fishermen are advised to avoid Chinook salmon. Participants must use crafts such as kayaks, canoes, rowboats, float tubes and paddle boards. Motor powered crafts aren’t allowed nor is fishing from the shoreline.

For more information entry forms and the official derby guidelines, please go to www.albernioutpost.com.