Win big bucks at the Derby

The fish are plentiful and nearby this season, which means this year’s Salmon Classic fishing derby is really for everyone.

“The fishing right now is the hottest it’s been in years,” said organizer and co-sponsor Whitney McElroy of McElroy Media. “People are limiting out. The

excitement is real.”

While in previous years fishers have complained the good fishing was too far for their smaller boats and younger families, this year someone landed a 23-pounder right outside the marina entrance, McElroy said. “You don’t have to travel far at all. People in small boats really need to come out for this derby.”

This is the third year McElroy and the Point Roberts Marina Resort have sponsored the derby. The August 29 event starts at 6 a.m. and weigh-in is at the fuel dock before 4 p.m.  Fishing is in U.S. waters only. The goal is to bring back the biggest salmon and claim your share of the prize dollars. The first-place fish will win $1,000, with $500 for second and $250 for third place.

Participants are also eligible for a bounty of other prizes provided by event sponsors, including Bass Pro Shops, Stillwater Sports, Mario’s Kitchen, the Cottages at Seabright Farm, Gibbs Delta, Berry’s Bait and Tackle, Steveston Marine and

Islander Reels.

Tickets are available at Nielson’s Building Center, the marina office or the fuel dock for $60. For kids under 16 tickets cost $25. “We’d really like to see the kids come out for this,” McElroy said.

The ticket price includes the award dinner, which begins at 6:30 p.m. and is open to non-participants for $15. “One thing we really welcome is families,” McElroy said.