Organizers of the catch-and-release North American Sturgeon Championships in Birchdale are gearing up for the annual contest.
The championships are planned for 3-7 p.m. Aug. 18 at Nelson Park in Birchdale.
The event is a fundraiser for the Birchdale Community Building.
Judging is by length only and verification judge boats will be on the water. Only entrants in the costs may hook, fight and land fish.
Organizers urge participants to come early to avoid delays in launching their boats.
The longest fish registered will receive half the amount of the entry fees, which are $15 for adults and $10 for anglers age 17 and under. In the longest fish caught in last year’s contest netted $1,820 for the winner; in 2010, top prize was $1,955; and in 2009 the winner took home $1,760 for the winning fish. Anglers who catch-and-release the second and third place longest fish receive $50 gasoline certificates. Youth prizes will be provided by Ben Burgess Enterprises. Door prizes will also be awarded during the event.
For more information about the North American Sturgeon Championships, call Mike Hanson at 218-634-1340 or Nelson’s Store at 218-634-2583.
