Forest preserve sponsors ice fishing tourney
Anglers of all ages are invited to test their skills at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's Hard Water Classic ice fishing tournament.
If ice conditions allow, the tourney will be held from noon to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, on the 62-acre Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville.
The top three catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike and crappie will receive gift cards of $125, $100 and $75 to local sporting goods stores. The angler with the largest fish overall will win a gas-powered auger or ice shelter.
Registrants also will have a chance to win door prizes, such as a manual auger, ice shelter, tip-ups and rod-and-reel combinations.
Organizers say it's the largest ice fishing tournament in the region.
Registration is $20 in advance online or $25 at the event. Proceeds will support ranger-led recreation programs that provide outdoor experiences for special-needs groups, youth groups, Scouts and community resource centers in DuPage County.
Check-in is 11 to 11:45 a.m., and tournament fishing runs from noon to 3:30 p.m. Participants must bring their own gear and bait, and comply with all applicable fishing regulations and tournament rules. Anglers 16 and older who are not legally disabled must carry valid Illinois fishing licenses.
The main entrance to Blackwell Forest Preserve is on Butterfield Road about a quarter-mile west of Winfield Road.