Otter Lake’s chapter of the Native Alliance of Quebec hosted over 190 fishermen on Saturday in the group’s second annual bass tournament in support of food bank Bouffe Pontiac.
Organizer Chuck Burke said the event featured expanded divisions this year for men, women and children, and that there were more participants this year than last. He said that one brave fisherman even slept in a pop-up trailer on Farm Lake in preparation for the day’s festivities.
“This is a very successful tournament,” Burke said, adding that the 195 registered participants was more than last year. “We’re growing.”
Burke said the Raymond Johnston Community Centre was buzzing with activity all day, as fishermen brought their catches back in to be weighed. Three hot meals from the hardworking kitchen staff kept the fishermen’s bellies full, while a dart tournament kept the crowds entertained.
The men’s division was a tie between Stefan Kirkpatrick and Gabriel Beck, the women’s division was a tie between Kassandra Fleury and April Keller, and the kids’ division was won by Brandon Boyer. The grand prize winner of a weekend for two at WT Outfitter in Kazabazua was Daniel Blaskie.
Burke thanked the more than 70 local sponsors and the 14 volunteers that made the day possible.
“They are really helping out,” he said.
Burke said that attendees donated a total of 15 bins of non-perishable goods for Bouffe Pontiac. Otter Lake’s fire department also donated $300 toward the cause.
