Ice Fishing Derby | Saranac Lake | March 2-3, 2024
- Lake Colby 2178 NY-86 Saranac Lake, NY, 12983 United States (map)
Saranac Lake’s Colby Classic Ice Fishing Derby Celebrates 40 Years
Take part in a traditional Adirondack ice fishing derby in New York State.
The Saranac Lake Fish and Game Club celebrates the 40th anniversary of its Colby Classic Ice Fishing Derby, taking place on Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3, 2024, on Lake Colby and surrounding waters.
40 Years of ice fishing excitement in the Adirondacks.
Organizers are marking the 40th anniversary with exciting prizes and contests. Rocky Nogales, tournament coordinator, shared his excitement for the milestone year. "This year, being the 40th anniversary, we decided to do a few things differently regarding sponsorships and the value of prizes offered,” he said.
The derby is open to adults and children, with prizes in each category. The event typically draws between 200 and 250 participants each year, with approximately 80 young people participating as they fish for trout, salmon, and perch on Lake Colby, along with pike in surrounding waters.
Local businesses to sponsor tagged fish to enhance the value of derby prizes.
The event kicks off with its annual tradition of the DEC’s special delivery of 5-year-old specially-tagged fish from its salmon and rainbow trout ponds. Historically, if caught, those fish represent a cash prize of $100 to each angler lucky enough to land one.
John Gorgas, a spokesperson for the tournament, explained how the “tagged fish” portion of the contest has been enhanced this year. “The DEC-tagged fish are being sponsored by local businesses, sometimes challenging each other and combining their donations, to increase the value of each fish caught,” he said. “We have multiple tagged fish valued over $300 each. In one particular case, eight real estate agencies have combined forces to sponsor one fish, turning a single tag into an $800 fish, if caught, ” he said. “Our local businesses have been excited about this sponsorship idea, and we couldn't be more thrilled.”
The Saranac Lake area provides the ideal backdrop for an exciting ice fishing competition in New York State’s Adirondack Park.
Lake Colby offers the perfect location for ice fishing. The lake’s size and place in the Saranac region help to ensure sufficient ice, provided that temperatures remain cold. Downtown Saranac Lake is surrounded by dozens of lakes and ponds, allowing unparalleled access. The town offers access to three connected lakes, including Lake Colby, creating a unique and picturesque setting for the tournament.
Proceeds from the fishing derby benefit the Saranac Lake Fish and Game Club’s conservation projects and training, its Father’s Day fishing derby, hunter education and safety training programs, and archery classes for community members.
Some local hotels are also celebrating this milestone year, offering special rates for tournament participants.
Businesses interested in sponsoring a tagged fish or learning more about sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Rocky Nogales at slfgc.frnogales@gmail.com or 505-697-0452. Contact John Gorgas at jonnygorgo@gmail.com for general tournament information. Visit the Colby Classic Ice Fishing Derby Facebook page for the latest updates and news.
Places to explore in and around Saranac Lake.
Visit one of the Adirondacks’ most iconic and beautiful hotels, and you might also have a “spiritual” experience.
Delve into the fascinating lives of common loons in the Adirondacks.
Hear about what it takes to assist NYS Forest Rangers on Search and Rescue missions.
Corn mazes provide a perfect complement to the Adirondacks' autumnal attractions.
New Episode! Our fascinating conversation with the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation.
With a simple change, we can help eradicate the leading cause of death for adult Adirondack loons.
A captivating journey through time and nature in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains.
Experience the heyday of the American motor inn in Tupper Lake in the beautiful Adirondacks.
A four-season enchanting resort in the Adirondack Tri-Lakes & High Peaks region.
An accessible yet wild and exciting interaction with mother nature less than 15 minutes from Lake Placid.
Lake Placid’s thrilling scenic adventure ride.
World-class horse jumping competition in the Adirondack village of Lake Placid.
One of the Adirondack's most acclaimed breweries is also a terrific restaurant.
The home and final resting place of the famous anti-slavery crusader is near Lake Placid.
The Eastwind Hotel is a unique gem in the heart of Lake Placid, New York.
Indulge yourself at this historic grand hotel in the HIgh Peaks and Tri-Lakes region of the Adirondack Park.
USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Awards selects Tupper Lake’s Wild Center as Best in the U.S.
Reflecting on a legendary Olympic moment in USA hockey history in the Adirondack State Park.
Lake Placid, New York’s Winter Olympic Village operates a historic Toboggan Chute that has been a cherished fixture in the region for almost eight decades.
Culinary wizardry, hand-crafted cocktails, and outstanding service at this Tupper Lake newcomer.
The Nobel-prize-winning physicist found peace and relaxation on Saranac Lake.
Big-mountain skiing in the High Peaks at one of the top ski destinations in New York State and the Northeast.
Visit the exquisite charm of Saranac Lake’s Adirondack Carousel.
Tupper Lake’s James C. Frenette Trails provide an ideal opportunity to experience Adirondack back country life.
Step onto the ice and skate where the greats achieved’s Adirondack Park.
The first First Lady to ride with the Olympic bobsled team? It happened in the Adirondacks.
Trailhead in Tupper Lake combines modernity with delightful pleasures for an excellent stay in the ADK.
An authentic Italian coffee bar in Lake Placid, the Adirondack’s Olympic Village.
Unwind in cozy comfort on a picturesque Adirondack lake.
Show your love for the Adirondacks.
Find Lake Colby near Saranac Lake Village.
Upcoming events in and around Saranac Lake.
- Posted In: Events, Tri-Lakes & High Peaks, Saranac Lake, Lake Colby
- Tagged: ice fishing, Fishing derby