Here's a great way to start break week with the kids (photo)

NEWS RELEASE

LAFRAMBOISE CHILDREN'S PERCH DERBY

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Laframboise Children’s Perch Derby - Sunday March 11, 2012

New "catch-and-release" format

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON  - On Sunday, March 11 families can kick-off the March break by enjoying the great outdoors and ice-fishing at the seventh running of the Laframboise Children’s (14 and under) Perch Derby.

The popular derby is a non-profit event, held annually to promote kids fishing and outdoor family time.

This year the derby takes a new and exciting twist.

This will be the first year that the derby is an official "catch-and-release" format.

Derby founder and Professional Angler Rob Laframboise decided to make this year's derby "catch-and-release" to help promote conservation and maintain healthy fish populations.

Everyone will receive a plastic bag at registration.

When the kids catch a perch they fill the bag with water to keep the fish alive, and then go to the Wacky Wings measurement station on the ice.

Children can measure as many perch as they like, although only one will qualify for the top 10.

There will also be a "hidden length" prize so the more fish you measure and release, the more chances you have to win.

A gift certificate for a free pair of original Kids Muck Boots will be presented to the winner, compliments of Pro Outdoor Gear.

The derby will be held again at the end of West Neebish Road in Laird Township (20 minutes east of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario).

The entry fee is only $5 per child, and all children must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Each entry fee includes a prize, a hot dog, and a hot chocolate. Volunteers will be on hand to help drill holes. 

Hooks and lines will be available for those who do not have their own gear.

Bait will be available on the ice from True Bite Tackle and Snags.

Registration will begin at 9 a.m. on the ice at the end of West Neebish Road in the Mustad registration tent.

Fishing is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Trophies for the 10 longest perch and prize presentations will follow at 1 p.m.

Every child registered will win a prize, including a variety of outdoor gear donated by generous sponsors and businesses.

"So many sponsors have returned and stepped up to the plate again," says Laframboise, including Christie's RV who will provide the  hot dog zone, Tim Hortons hot chocolate, bus service along West Neebish road provided courtesy of AJ Bus Lines, and Brookfield Power to name just a few.

Last year, in 2011, 371 children attended the derby.

The highest participation was 2008 when 429 young anglers took to the ice.

For two-time National Classic Fishing Champion Laframboise, reaching 500 is this year’s goal.

“I would really like to see us hit the 500 mark for participation this year,” says Laframboise."We’ve come close a couple of times before and I think that if we have some good weather on the 11th we should get there.”

"This is a great opportunity to introduce your kids to fishing and have a nice day outdoors with your family," says Laframboise. “It looks like great conditions again this year, there's plenty of ice, and we’re looking forward to a great day. And don't forget to get your picture taken with the Wacky Wings 'Big Chicken' mascot who will be on the ice on Sunday!"

For more information and ice condition updates, you can visit the Laframboise Children's Perch Derby official Facebook page or contact Rob Laframboise by e-mail.

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