Lake Darling hosts fishing tournament

The fish were biting at the annual Jim Dickinson Memorial Fishing Tournament & Rodeo on May 20.

The event, co-sponsored by Friends of Lake Darling and Brighton Lions Club, drew more than 40 contestants who vied for prizes and bragging rights in three categories during the all-ages event at Lake Darling.

“We couldn’t have asked for better weather or a better turn out,” said Don Kline, Friends board member.

Winners are: Crappie Division - Jackson Green of Brighton; Bass-15" or longer - Pat Congdon of Atalissa.

Prizes and supplies were donated by Walmart, Ace & More, M&M Kote It, Cobb Oil, Theisen's, Dr. Mary Anson & Fay Vittetoe, and Federation Bank.

"We could not have done this event without the wonderful sponsors and the great volunteers who came out to make this a special day," said Merrill Lucas, member of Friends. "It is great to see people of all ages coming to enjoy the Lake and fish."

The tournament was founded after the passing of long-time Friends member and Campers Corner owner James Dickinson to help promote Lake Darling and share Dickinsons passion for fishing with others.

"We have this tournament to share in Jim’s memory I won my first fishing trophy at Lake Darling when Jim organized a spring fling fun day for families and I’m proud we can continue these fun events to honor his legacy sharing the joy of fishing with others,” said Stacie Lowe, Friends board member.

Entry fees collected will help support the Friends of Lake Darling Projects.

"Friends has been able to do many wonderful things at the Lake Darling like constructing our paved ADA trail system, adding a kayak launch and a interpretive panels to hiking tails and it is thanks to grants, donations and people supporting our events like the Jimmy Dick Memorial Fishing Tournament," said Kline.

  Buy Photo