In just a few weeks, the action under the big tent will get underway for one of the area’s most anticipated summer events.
The Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular is not only an event for anglers, but features events that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Co-chair John Ford says the derby will cater to different age groups with their themed days — which include a kids day, a seniors day and a ladies afternoon.
The entertainment under the tent ranges from country and western to rock and roll and will also feature tribute artists.
The derby wasn’t always as large an event as it is today.
Fred Geberdt — who has been co-chair of the derby for 22 years — says the event began in a local garage, but has grown to host six thousand people each year.
This year, there are a total of approximately 500 volunteers that help make the derby possible.
Geberdt says he doesn’t think the current recession will negatively effect the derby because those who attend are mostly local residents and visitors who don’t have to travel far to get to Owen Sound.
Geberdt adds the current economic situation doesn’t seem to be affecting derby sponsorship as this year Geberdt says there are a total of 258.
The only potential problem Geberdt says he sees in this years derby comes from the introduction of exotic fish into the Great Lakes which has taken away important food sources for the Chinook salmon.
Geberdt says this years spring fishing season was a success which shows optimism for this years derby.
In order to qualify for the derby prizes, you must purchase a derby ticket at least a day before you head out on the water.
For a single adult, the ticket cost is 20 dollars and for a family, the cost is 50 dollars.
In addition to the grand prize of G3 boats — there will be daily prizes for the top 10 salmon and top five trout.
All of the entertainment under the tent is free of charge, however donations to are greatly appreciated.
All of the details and full derby schedule can be found at www.sydenhamsportsmen.com or through the derby hotline at 376-7177 for the duration of the derby which runs from August 28th to September 6th.