Get ready to wet your line for big prizes at Under The Lock Fishing Derby

Following last year’s record turnout, organizers of the Under The Lock Fishing Derby in Peterborough are expecting another stellar year for the annual angling event.

This year marks the 35th tournament, organized by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), held annually along the Lift Lock canal on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

According to a release, this year’s event will feature the return of several popular elements, promising to make the derby a success.

“Back by popular demand are early bird registration prizes, goody bags, a hot dog lunch for the kids, and sponsored tagged fish with cash prizes for anglers of all ages to win,” said David Ryrie, OFAH youth education manager, in a prepared release.

The youth derby kicks off on April 27 for children 15 and under and includes 500 tagged trout for instant prizes, along with a chance to win one of four grand prizes.

The big fish prize of $1,000 cash will go to whoever catches “Walter,” a rainbow trout estimated to weigh between six and eight pounds. “Walter” has been caught three years in a row by Travis Parker, Justin Desbarbieux and, in record time last year, by Benjamin Bumstead.

The second- and third-place grand prize fish, “Rosie” and “Berty,” are each worth $200 cash plus a free registration to an OFAH day camp. The fourth grand prize fish, aptly named “Kayak,” will take home a sit-on kayak and paddle.

Meanwhile, the all-ages derby is set to run April 28 to May 5 and for the third year will include tagged fish with cash prizes sponsored by local businesses. Sponsorship details can be found on the derby website.

“We still have fish in need of a local sponsor that will both challenge anglers and offset the cost of the stocked trout for the youth derby,” added Ryrie.

Registration is required for all participants — just $15 for the first child, $10 for siblings, and $25 for adults.

Tickets for the derby can be purchased online at ofah.org/underthelock or in person at Peterborough Canadian Tire locations.

CLIFFORD SKARSTEDT METROLAND FILE PHOTO “Walter,” the elusive grand-prize rainbow trout, was hooked by Benjamin Bumstead near the retaining net at the Maria Street swing bridge during the first hour of the 34th annual Under the Lock Fishing Derby in 2023. The derby returns on April 27.