Snow, chill can't keep anglers away from Antioch fishing derby

Hardy spectators joined three generations of fishermen Sunday on the west side of Channel Lake in Antioch for the 58th Ice Fishing Derby and Winter Festival.

The event is the chief fundraiser for the Northern Illinois Conservation Club, founded in 1960, which offers educational programs on various conservation, wildlife and preservation subjects at no charge to the public.

Headquartered during the weekend at the Thirsty Turtle Brew and View Pub, the derby is said to be the longest continuously run winter event in the Illinois.

Club founders were sportsmen and others concerned about the deterioration of the environment, ignorance of natural resources, lack of hunter safety and the need for education of hunters, fishermen, boaters and campers of all ages.