Northern BC MLA’s ‘gone fishin’ in new contest

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The first annual Shake Off the Blues ice fishing challenge is happening between February 8th and March 7th 2021, and several northern British Columbia MLA’s are joining in on the fun.

The MLA’s trying their rod at fishing include Mike Bernier of Peace River South, Shirley Bond of Prince George-Valemount, Dan Davies of Peace River North, Mike Bernier of Peace River South, Lorne Doerkson of Cariboo Chilcotin, Mike Morris of Prince George-Mackenzie, and Carloee Oakes of Cariboo North.

Peace River North MLA Dan Davies says he’s got some stiff competition.

“Mike Morris would probably be our rock star, he’s big into fish and wildlife. He’s been out in the land more than he’s been in a building,” says Davies.

He adds the competition could prove more difficult for anglers in Northeastern British Columbia due to limiting species to trout.

“We do have trout, but we don’t have the opportunity to fish like they do in the Northwest. Prince George has loads and loads of lakes, so we’re going to work a little harder on this side to get there.”

The event is being offered by Angler’s Atlas, a fishing information and resource website. Angler’s Atlas started in 1999 with only a few maps around central B.C.

Now, the website has over 80,000 maps across Canada and the United States, complete with depth charts, topographical information, and more.

Angler’s Atlas will use their newly developed mobile app MyCatch in the contest, ensuring that all competitors can enjoy competing for prizes without breaking health protocols.

When someone catches a fish, they use the app to take a picture of the fish on a measuring device. The app will compile all the data and send it to the real-time leaderboard to see who caught the biggest fish.

Davies says he’s looking forward to getting out into nature again.

“It’s easy, and it’s relaxing. The opportunity just to sit out in the silence and enjoy the solitude is a good thing. And, you’re outside at the same time, so it’s even better.”

While Davies is looking forward to the fishing, he says he’s more accustomed to fishing in the warmer months.

“I haven’t ice fished in many years. I’m a stream fisherman. I like to go up to Cypress Creek, and way out to the Graham Pathway. Those are the places I like to go.”

There will be prizes of $1,000, $500, and $250 for the three biggest fish in each category.

The goal of the contest is to register 500 anglers across Northern British Columbia. The entry fee is $20, if Angler’s Atlas reaches the target, over $8,000 in prizes will be awarded.