A top prize of $10,000 awaits the angler who catches a 40-inch pike tagged for the 14th annual ice fishing derby on Walled Lake.
In addition to cash payouts, merchandise raffles and door prizes, the event takes place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 11, 2023.
The organizer Tony Hopeck expects this year’s turnout to be higher than last year’s, which drew 670 competitors and several hundred observers.
There are usually 300 or more ice shanties out on the lake during the event, and it looks like a little village,” Hopeck said.
On Walled Lake Drive, just east of Pontiac Trail, the Beach Tiki Bar & Boil restaurant is hosting the tournament.
“It’s known as the ‘home of the $10,000 tagged fish’ – we have the highest payouts in the industry,” Hopeck said.
This year, the top prize is guaranteed by the Greenhouse marijuana store in Walled Lake. Owner Jerry Millen decided to put the money up after a problem last year with an insurance policy that didn’t pay out the payout. Hopeck said the winner still won $10,000 due to a last-minute “Plan B.”
As a precaution, organizers decided to pass on the insurance policy for this year’s big prize, so Millen stepped in.
It’s important to do good things for the community, and Walled Lake is our home,” Millen said. “It gives me great pleasure to give back to the community that has shown us so much support.”
Winners of the $10,000 prize must be at least 18 years old.
Additionally, Greenhouse will run a $5 raffle during the tournament, with a $1,000 prize pack up for grabs.
Prizes for other derbies include:
For the 1st place pike, $1,000 will be awarded
A prize of $750 will be awarded for the second place pike
A $500 prize will be awarded to the third place pike
For panfish, perch, crappie, and rock bass, there will be a $500 “side pot” payout
Hopeck describes the raffle packages as “state-of-the-art, cutting-edge” merchandise in addition to the cash.
Early registration for the event started Feb. 2 at The Bait Shop, located at 2574 Airport Road in Waterford Township. Anglers must have a valid fishing license and pay $35 registration, or $5 for kids 15 and younger. On derby day, register at The Beach Tiki Bar & Boil, 142 E. Walled Lake Drive in Walled Lake. Registration will also be available online at www.mifishingderbys.com from Feb. 9 through 10 a.m.
A portion of the tournament proceeds will be donated to the Walled Lake Civic Fund for the city’s fireworks display in 2023.
Sources: Theoaklandexpress
