Winter is in full swing, and that means it’s time to bring out the family and go ice fishing with the Andover Fish & Game Club (AF&G). Two Derbies will be held in February, one for both adults and kids and one just for kids.

The second Old Fashioned Ice Fishing Derby will be held on Saturday, February 2 on Highland Lake in East Andover. Registration begins at 6 AM at the AF&G Clubhouse and the Derby runs from then until 1 PM. Anyone may participate in this Derby, with an entrance fee of $10 for adults and $5 for kids 15 and under. Prizes will be awarded for the Top 4 brook or rainbow trout in both the Adult Division and Junior Division. Prizes include fishing gear and other special items. All entries also have a chance to win a free door prize. Call 768-3302 with any questions.

The Thirty-Fifth Annual Willis Nowell Memorial Kids’ Ice Fishing Derby will be held on Saturday, February 23 on Eagle Pond in Wilmot (off of Route 4). In the case of bad weather, the Derby will be moved to Sunday, February 24. The Derby runs from 9:30 AM to 12 noon, with registration beginning at 9 AM. Kids 15 years old and under may participate. This Derby is free, and tackle and bait will be provided. There will also be plenty of free food and drink for everyone. Lucky prizes, participation ribbons, and trophies will be awarded. Come join us for a fun time on the ice. Call 735-5311 with any questions.

Thank you to everyone who has attended our fundraising events, which makes it possible for the AF&G to sponsor fun, family-friendly experiences like these Derbies.  An important mission of the AF&G is to educate the public, particularly children, about the outdoors, wildlife, and outdoor sports such as hunting and fishing. We always appreciate your support. Thank you, as well, to Club members and their families and to supporters of the AF&G, who donate time, money, and supplies to our events.