Date:  May 8, 2012

To:  All Media Outlets

From:  Laconia Rotary Club

Re:  Big Fish Means Big Money and Prizes at The Laconia Rotary Winni-Derby!

     Cash…everyone can use it and this year the 30^th Annual Fishing Derby has it to give away!  Hook the top salmon and you could win the grand prize of $12,500!  This year over $50,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs during this year’s Winni-Derby presented by the Lakes  Region Inland Fishing Association and the Laconia Rotary Club.  The event will take place Friday through Sunday, May 18, 19, and 20. 

     Diane Labrie, Derby Coordinator has worked hard to make sure this year’s event is the best ever.  “Many anglers have commented that they would love to see cash prizes instead of the usual fishing gear so we changed several of the top Salmon and Trout prizes to something everybody can use, Money!” 

     Other improvements to this years event include a new weigh station in Alton Bay in addition to the usual Weirs location.  The Alton location will be open from 9AM to 2PM both Friday and Saturday with the Weirs location open all three days, 8AM to 7PM on Friday and Saturday and 8AM till Noon on Sunday.  Labrie commented, “More weigh stations means more convenient options for the fishermen and that means more time for them to stay on the big lake to catch the big one!”

     Much work is also being done to improve the Awards Events.  There will be additional sponsors booths showcasing some of their wares.   Plus, there will be lots of delicious food to enjoy! Walking Tacos (with all the fixings), Chili, Grinders, Subs, Lobster Rolls, Chips, Soda and Water will be part of this year’s fare.  Plus Winni Derby Corporate Sponsor, Twisted Tee will also be present with samples of their products and Beer and Wine will also be available for sale.  “We want every participant to not only enjoy a great day on the lake but have fun at the evening events as well.”  says Labrie, “We think that our vendors and many sponsors will make this year’s experience the best ever!”

      “This will be a fitting tribute to Rick Davis”.  Davis, who was the Derby coordinator for the past several years passed away last year after battling a long illness.  “Rick worked tirelessly to make this event a success.  He left the Derby in great shape and we can only hope to build on that success.”   

     So if you haven’t signed up yet there is still time go to www.winniderby.com to sign up and get even more details.  For those of you who have signed up please be aware of the new rule this year. According to NH Fish and Game rules, all fish entered in the Derby must be dead.  This rule was established to prevent culling and/or transferring of live fish. Anglers can also help the fish population by making sure we properly handle hooked fish.  Here are a few tips:  Single hook lures work well and barbless hooks are even better, and we also recommend using a rubber landing net to protect the fish as the hooks won’t catch on the netting material.  A pair of needle nose pliers or similar tool should be used to grip the hook while removing it from the fish.  A water soaked towel or cotton glove to hold the fish while you remove the hook and release it aids the salmon’s health. The glove doesn’t take the slime off the fish and lessens the chance of infection. Taking an extra second or two to follow these suggestions will go a long way to help returning the fish to the water alive and healthy.

     Be sure to read the rules and regulations of the derby, Fish & Game Dept. and the NH Dept of Safety, Marine Division to ensure you have  an enjoyable fishing experience.  Don’t forget to support the many sponsors who make the Derby and its prizes possible.

      The Laconia Rotary Club looks forward to seeing you at the 2012 Winni-Derby!