Montana – The Peterson family arose at 4 a.m. last Saturday and made the long drive from Thompson Falls to Smith Lake in the Flathead Valley for the Kalispell Sunriser Lions Club 50th annual kids ice fishing derby.
While they may not have claimed a prize for the biggest fish, the smile on 13-year-old Elizabeth Peterson’s face indicated the effort her family was well worth the time.
Peterson, who recently bagged her first buck, a whitetail 3×3, caught a 21-inch northern pike from the icy waters of one of the Flathead’s favorite ice fishing venues.
Rachel Peterson and Jared Peterson, Elizabeth’s mom and dad, have family in the Flathead and were happy to make the trip.
“My brother told us about the derby so we thought it would be a lot of fun,” Rachel said.
Elizabeth’s patience paid off when she hooked and landed the healthy pike.
“She’s had a lot more patience than her brothers had and it’s showed,” Rachel said with a laugh.
The Sunriser derby has been a family favorite in the Flathead since 1970. Every year hundreds attend and Saturday was no different.
A windless day and temperatures in the mid 30s were perfect for fishing.
Warren Illi, one of the derby’s organizers said there were about 200 people fishing, less than normal, but not surprising with the event the day after Christmas.
“We didn’t know if Christmas being yesterday or Covid would impact the turnout, but it was still a good crowd,” Illi said.
Hot food and beverages were available from Lions Club members who kept the gas grill busy.
One tradition remained alive and well as free S’mores were provided by the club, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018.
Former Lions Club member Dr. Chuck Williams, who died in 2013, began the tradition, according to Lions member Mike Wood.
“Chuck was quite the guy, loved hunting, fishing and the outdoors, and we’re honored to continue what he began,” Wood said.
Williams bow-hunted all over North America and was a huge supporter of youth hunters and anglers in the Flathead.
Walleyes Unlimited donated 100 rod and reel combos which were given to the youth anglers. Sportsman and Ski Haus sponsored the event, donated bait, prizes for all winners and Flathead Wildlife also donated to the event.
