Hello fellow anglers: We are getting closer to the 2014 Topaz Lodge Fishing Derby. This year the derby will run from January 1st to April 13th.
Where else can you get paid to go fishing?
This year the rules are much the same as last year. You must be 21 years of age to enter the derby, as it is sponsored by the Topaz Lodge and Casino. When you catch a trout 2 pounds or larger, bring it to the Topaz General Store to be weighed. All trout 2 lbs and over will receive 10 entries into the drawing on April 13th at 7pm. ( Must be present to win ) and $5 in free slot play. Any tagged trout caught during this time will get you an instant $100 cash. Plus at the end of each week, they will award $50 for the largest fish and $25 for the second largest fish caught for that week.
For more information on the derby or lodging information call 775-266-3338. Topaz lake will open for fishing on January 1st 2014.
I have kept up with the NDOW and their fish planting schedule. From October of this year until this date, they have planted over 15,000 lbs of fish in the lake. That means, you will probably bring home a fish dinner and get some cash for doing it. Plus you will receive bragging rights for the week, as I will be putting the weekly winners here in the Naw column.
Now for those that want real adventure. I spoke with fellow angler Dan Kaffer this week. Dan reported 8 inches of ice on Caples Lake by the dam. They used worms and power bait and caught 15 pan sized rainbows.
Dan and his fellow anglers then ventured to Red Lake. Red Lake had about 8 inches of ice also. They fished for an hour or so and caught 1 mountain white fish.
Although the higher lakes are getting some ice on them, use caution on all bodies of water this time of year.
The lakes may have some decent thickness to them, but it takes some time to to be structurally solid.
For instance, Indian Creek Res last week was covered with ice, but is not structurally sound.
I have heard from one angler over the last few years that has ventured out on Indian Creek while it had ice on it. That angler told me they crawled off of it after it started to crack right under them. With our slightly warming temperatures this week this low lying lake is too dangerous to ice fish. A 2 pound trout is not worth risking your life or the lives of the people that will attempt to rescue you. I will keep you up to date on the condition of Indian Creek. As most of us know, winter fishing is the best time of year at this lake.
Good luck on your next fishing adventure. If you get a photo of your catch, send it to donquilici@hotmail.com.
If you have any question in our local fishing world call the Naw line at 775-267-9722.
Good fishin and tight lines