Three Lakes Ice Fishing TournamentThe 30th Annual Three Lakes Ice Fishing Contest was ”very successful” according to Jessica Blair Granby Chamber Director. “We had 991 registered anglers a little better than last year and with the late ice…we are definitely considering this a win!!”

Weather was absolutely beautiful and most everyone had a great time.  “Once again winter has not missed Grand County” said Bernie Keefe local guide and avid angler.  Bernie oversees the weigh station and is a big part of the contest each year.  Keefe added, “everyone was worried but, Mother Nature did her part as always”

Each year the Three Lakes Tournament features a tagged fish contest. Ten fish under 19” are caught, tagged and released by a team of volunteers a few days before the tourney opens.

Jon Ewert, Biologist for Colorado Parks and Wildlife oversees the outing and tagging procedures. Jon’s son Ben Ewert, a 6th grade student at East Grand Middle School was on the volunteer team lead by fish whisperer, guide and storyteller, Bernie Keefe. “Young Ewert ended up catching all the fish used in the contest.” according to Keefe.  

Jessica Blair said, “We gave out over $18k in cash, over $10k in prizes and 2 tagged fish winners,  Mark Murphy and Fred Garrett of Granby took a cool $1000 a piece”  The contest is put on each year by the Granby Chamber of Commerce in association with a host of local sponsors. Blair said, “We have the best sponsors & support ever!!!  Kudos to all our Volunteers.. just so grateful to be at the helm!!”

The annual tournament is a family tradition for many have been coming for 25-30 years, “It warms your heart!!”  Balir added, “We will continue to improve this contest each year and continue on a very long standing family tradition!!”