How This All Started
Back in the fall of 1980, a group of local Kiwanis members sat down to discuss a new and better means to raise funds for their community. A seed of an idea was planted that night, and through tender care and careful nurturing, that idea sprouted, grew and budded during the winter chill.
Then, on opening day of walleye season, 1981, after months of extensive planning and hard work by scores of volunteers, the idea erupted into full bloom. The first Trenton Kiwanis fishing derby had been born.
A family-oriented event that has become a time-honoured tradition among Trenton and area residents. An inexpensive, yet possibly lucrative fun filled event that has put Trenton on the top rung of (if you will pardon the pun) the fishing ladder.
"The Kiwanis fishing derby was a hit from the start," reflected Rob Cory, a former chairman of the fishing weekend. "People loved it. It was, and still is, an opportunity for the whole family to get out and enjoy themselves."
"Every nickel of profit that is raised is turned back into the community and every man-hour devoted to the event is volunteered work."
In the beginning the entry fee was only $5 adult and $3 junior, but the prizes were not comparable to what they are today. Even at today's prices it is still a small price to pay for a weekend of fishing fun and a shot at some really super prizes. Combine this with the legendary, free Kiwanis fishing hat and you're a winner before you ever start fishing.
"Every nickel of profit that is raised is turned back into the community" stated Mr. Cory "And every man-hour devoted to the event is volunteered work."
"We have so many dedicated people to thank for their support that I don't know where to start. But certainly Honda and Bay Marine who have been with us from the start deserve honourable mention. We have since added A&P, Tim Hortons and Whitley Insurance and Financial Services.
As mentioned before, the Kiwanis fishing weekend has been a hit with anglers from all over. "Ontario, Quebec, the USA: they come from everywhere."
If you are a shore-bound angler, don't despair, a number of prizes have been awarded to people fishing from the bank including the top prize of the largest walleye.
"We promote the junior category," said Mr. Cory, "But we encourage the whole family to get out and support us." If you don't fish, at least join us in the festivities at the weigh-in station located at the Community Gardens. There will be a food concession and plenty to do and see as well as draws to enter.
The thousands of vacationers that pay homage to Trenton and area year after year, is a testimonial to our axiom "The Walleye Capital". Our array of tackle shops, boat rental outlets, bait shops, guiding services lodging facilities are kept busy catering to the tourist trade during the prime fishing season. One would be well advised to book ahead for accommodation, boat rental, charter service or guides.
With easy access to and from the water, Trenton is a natural port for boating enthusiasts and anglers. Both Centennial and Fraser Parks provide protected harbourage, and the many public launch ramps will provide the trailered boat an easy and safe access to the water.
Nobody should deny themselves the joy of fishing this area. The shoreline and bottom structure give way to a multitude of angling adventures.
Very few, if any, areas can match the recreation and angling facilities that we have around the Trenton area. We are the Walleye Capital of Canada and we enjoy sharing our bounty with visitors.
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