Anglers, set your baits, because the 12th Annual Kinsmen Club Fishing Derby is making its return to Kinsmen Bay on Saturday January 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

With a top prize of about $500 and second and third place prizes about $300 and $200 respectively (sums based on number of entries), this is one fishing competition you don’t want to miss. Tickets for the event are available at Ray Rays Beach Pub in Invermere for $35.

“Last year’s biggest fish was 25 pounds,” organizer Steve Kuffler said with a wink and a smile.

Kuffler estimates he gets about 100 participants each year. Kuffler himself started the event 12 years ago, and originally donated proceeds to the local food bank, but these days as a member of the Kinsmen Club, he says all funds raised go to the Kinsmen Club for various communities needs and activities.

“Everybody is getting out of the Christmas season, and this is a real great family event that you can bring your kids to … it’s just another great event that the Kinsmen Club has provided for the community and for visitors to the community,” Kuffler said. “It’s a fun day to be had by all.”