Test your fishing skills at annual Hard Water Classic tournament Feb. 12

Anglers of all ages are invited to test their skills at the annual Hard Water Classic ice fishing tournament on Saturday, Feb. 12, on Blackwell Forest Preserve's Silver Lake in Warrenville.

Join the Chicago area's largest ice fishing tournament, hosted by DuPage Forest Preserve District, from noon to 3:30 p.m.

The top three catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike and crappie will receive gift cards of $125, $100 and $75, respectively to local sporting goods stores.

The angler with the largest fish overall will win a gas-powered auger or ice shelter.

Registrants will also have a chance to win door prizes, such as a gas-powered auger, ice shelter, tip-ups, and rod-and-reel combinations.

Registration is $20 in advance online at www.dupageforest.org 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 will be 11 to 11:45 a.m., and tournament fishing will run 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 or older who are not legally disabled must carry valid Illinois fishing licenses.

The main entrance to Blackwell Forest Preserve is on Butterfield Road, a quarter mile west of Winfield Road.

Check out photos from the last event, including pictures of the largest catches, at www.dupageforest.org.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for more than 100 years.

More than 6.2 million people visit its 60-plus forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, six education centers and scores of programs each year.

For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district's e-newsletter, blog, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.