Hard Water Classic ice fishing tournament returns to Blackwell Forest Preserve Jan. 10
Ice anglers of all ages are invited to test their skills against hundreds of competitors at the DuPage County Forest Preserve District's Hard Water Classic ice fishing tournament from noon 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, on the 62-acre Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville.
The top three catches of largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie will receive gift cards of $100, $75 and $60 to area sporting-goods stores. The angler with the largest fish overall will win a gas-powered auger.
Registrants also will have a chance to win door prizes such as ice shelters, augers, rod-and-reel combinations, tip-ups and other ice fishing gear.
Advance online registration is $15 or $20 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 noon to 3:30 p.m. If ice conditions are unfavorable on Jan. 10, the tournament will take place Feb. 7.
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 located on Butterfield Road a quarter-mile west of Winfield Road.
For details, visit www.dupageforest.org.