By Shawn Nickles
On February 28, the 8th Annual Lake Chelan Kokanee Shootout fishing derby took place near Chelan, Washington.
What started as a get together during the early spring season has now become an annual event with 51 boating teams participating this year. The idea was to try and fish during the colder, slower time of year as an act of endurance.
The derby continues to be prized by fishermen traveling from as far away as Utah, Montana and Idaho.
Prizes include a payout of the entry fees valued up to $5,000, with the top winners taking home $2,500 for their team.
Although the fish may seem small, this is a tournament that shows the skills and knowledge to get to the top spots.
Payout included placement to 10th placing.
Organizers are Jayson Williams, who heads up logistical needs, along with Shawn Nickles, who organizes the operations during the event.
This event is held every year on the last Saturday in February, with registrations in late fall.
This year’s winners boated 20 fish weighing in at 8 total pounds.
Congratulations to all the folks who could bear the weather and made for an another good event.
