The 5th Annual Jake Saufert Memorial Fishing Derby is taking place on Saturday, February 27th at Brownlows Landing on the West side of Gull Lake. Fishing will start at 7am and wrap up at 5pm.

This year all proceeds will be donated to the Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation. The Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation is geared towards providing mental health awareness and education through school programs, public speeches, and fundraising events. To date, $30,000 has been donated for training and educational programs in the community.

Jake who was raised in the Lacombe area, was only 21 when he took his own life. Jake loved to fish and hunt, and the fishing derby was created to celebrate his life and that of an exceptional friend, brother and son.

Rocky Saufert, Jake’s Dad, says that huge thanks goes out to all of the volunteers and sponsors who make the event happen each year, and that it’s a great occasion for friends, family and fishermen to get together to remember Jake.

When asked if Covid restrictions made planning this years event difficult, Rocky replied, “No, not really, I would say it’s fine. There’s some restrictions and rules that have to be followed and they’re all posted online. The restrictions caused a few hiccups, but we’re working through it.”

The organizers of the Fishing Derby are asking everyone to register for the event at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jake-saufert-annual-memorial-ice-fishing-derby-registration-140034706577. And with covid protocols in effect, social distancing will be in encouraged and they ask that everybody follow all rules and restrictions.