As most of you know, the National Lake Trout Derby has been an iconic event on Seneca Lake for the last 55 years.  Over the course of that half century, avid trout anglers in the Finger Lake region and beyond, have taken to their boats and docks, with a flashy assortment of spoons, lures, and baits in their tackle boxes, to catch trophy fish and compete for prizes and recognition in the Derby, on “The Lake Trout Capital of the World” - our own Seneca Lake. 

Many of us were concerned that the Corona virus situation, across New York and the country, would impact the ability of the Derby committee to hold the event this year. But as of the publication of this newsletter, the good news from the committee is --- “the Trout Derby is STILL ON”. 

While there will be some restrictions on the fish weigh-in procedures, and some scale back of the usual social aspects of the Derby celebration (all consistent with the social distancing guidelines established by the Governor), the NYS Department of Health has approved the event to go forward, for the dates of May 23, 24, and 25^th. 

Prizes this year will be pro-rated based upon the volume of registrations, and Stivers' Marina will host the sole weigh-in station.  As Bob Stivers has stated,

"Fish safe with friends and family - the same ones you sit around your living room with. Weigh safe - Bring your fish to the weigh stations one boat at a time, one person to the scales at a time, wear a mask, and stay six feet apart. Wash hands again and again. The Derby is on. Get signed up to keep the prizes at full price."

Registrations, as well as event rules and procedures, are available on-line at the link below,  in person at Stivers Marina, or at Roy’s Marina, up until May 23^rd.  There is also great information available on Facebook under “National Trout Derby on Seneca Lake”. 

Good luck to all of our members who will participate --- and stay safe!