Win Big Money in Saratoga’s Fun Filled Ice Fishing Derby

While this event isn't taking place in Laramie, if you are into fishing it could be worth the drive over to Saratoga to participate in their Ice Fishing Derby. The 29th annual event is put on by the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce on  January 21^st and 22^nd. The two day fishing derby will be your opportunity to compete for the $2000.00 first prize won by catching the largest fish during the event. Go prove your skills at Saratoga Lake in Saratoga, Wyoming while competing for over $6000.00 in cash prizes.  Hourly cash awards of $100.00 will be awarded for the largest fish measured that hour.  The big prize money is $2000 for first place, $1000 for second and $500 for third. Kids (under age 14) can enter the contest for a chance to win the grand prize of a $200.00 savings bond and a merchandise package, as well as hourly awards of $20.00.  Fantastic door prizes will also be given each hour. You will also want to keep your eyes open for the bounty fish, a fish with a pink tag behind the dorsal fin—the first bounty fish to be caught during the derby is worth $500!  

Back by popular demand, a “Best Hut” contest for the most creative, eye-catching and yet still legal hut will win braggin’ rights for a year!  Fishermen are encouraged to stop at the Derby Tent to share their “Best Fishing Story”.  Whether it’s about the one that got away, or a close call with death, the winning story will be added to the chamber's website! 

Derby hours are 7 am to 5 pm Saturday and 7 am to 2 pm Sunday.  Registration is $30 for adult anglers and $10 for kids. Food and beverage concessions are available at the lake all weekend as well.  You can register at the Saratoga / Platte Valley Chamber office at 210 West Elm Street in Saratoga during office hours and on Friday night January 20^th until 8 p.m., or at the lake Saturday morning starting at 6 am.  You can also register atlocal retail stores in Saratoga and Riverside that sell fishing licenses.  For more information, please call 307-326-8855 or go to www.saratogachamber.info