2003 Fishing Derby Photos

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The 2003 Meredith Rotary Fishing Derby took place during a spell of fabulous weather. As usual, it was a big success and tons of fun for everyone involved. Below are thirty photos of the 2003 Meredith Ice Fishing Derby.  The photos were taken on Saturday, February 8, 2003. Click on the image to enlarge.      Looking down on the busy ice from within the Mill Falls Marketplace complex. The new fishing board.  Fewer fish are displayed to appease those who were upset by the fact the fish were still alive when hung. A shot of the winning fish caught so far on the first day of the fishing derby. The line at the Italian sausage stand grows long near lunch time.  If only you could smell it... Looking over the action from atop a snow bank at derby headquarters. Snowmobiles lined up and ready to go out in search of the big one. The Inn at Bay Point overlooks all the action out on Meredith Bay. If you don't have a snowmobile, the ice for some is a good place to break out the ATV.  People gather and watch as a fish is reeled in and pulled through the hole. Some of the fishing shanties are quite elaborate.  All this one needs is a garage. A clean slate marks the start of the derby.  Did you know you don't even have to fish to win cash? Serving up good hot food is the only way to keep warm when the north winds blow. The Italian sausage stand is always a crowd favorite.  Be sure to get yours before they sell out. It's like a city on ice, but only if you can image snowmobiles replacing cars. Be sure to watch your step, the water around the public docks is protected from freezing.   A little closer in and you can truly appreciate how many people pack the ice around derby headquarters. Another fish goes up on the board to receive applause from onlookers. Another shot of the winning fish caught so far on the first day of the fishing derby. Toward prize time, the ice get more and more congested as people filter into around derby headquarters. Mill Falls, which is in the background, is a great place for the wife to shop around if fishing is not her thing.   Look north toward the far end of Meredith Bay.  The Inn at Bay Point is to the left. More of the same, friends busy socializing and sharing stories while waiting for their catch. Looking down the ice you'll find thinner crowds.  This is where the pros do their fishing. Winners are announced and people gather around to catch a glimpse. The Mill Falls Marketplace and Inns overlook all the action on Meredith Bay. A snowmobile is the only real way to cover much ground to find good fishing on a 72 square mile lake. If you need a cigar, the vendors have got you covered. And perhaps a cold drink? People congest in the derby headquarters all day checking out the fish board. Here is another shot of ice fishing houses and vendors. Looking east over the tops of the vendors out to Meredith Bay.