Perfect fishing weather attracts crowd to Black Lake derby

Published 8:08 am Wednesday, May 4, 2016

ILWACO — As dawn crept over the hill April 30, it revealed a perfect day for the annual Black Lake Fishing Derby — overcast skies that allowed the rainbow trout to remain close to the surface and no wind.

Most of the bigger fish that were caught — 2 to 5-pounders — were hooked with trolling spoons from boats instead of bait. To the delight of kids and parents alike, there were many of these impressive planted trout.

Volunteers and merchants provided a pancake breakfast, hot dogs, juice, a ton of prizes for the kids, life jackets, a weigh-in table, “traffic control” and t-shirts for those who preregistered.

Two osprey, nesting at the top of a tall tree, also provided entertainment for participants.