The Brokenhead Ojibway Nation (BON) will host its 4th Annual Ice Fishing Derby on March 1, 2026, drawing what organizers expect to be hundreds of anglers to the Beausejour, Manitoba area. The winter event takes place on Lake Winnipeg at Beaconia Beach and has grown into a major regional attraction. The derby is promoted as a way for people to get outside while supporting local tourism and the Nation’s conservation efforts.
Chief Gordon Bluesky and the Chief and Council are leading the event, which features pre-drilled fishing holes and substantial cash prizes. Prize amounts have varied by year: the inaugural 2023 derby included a top walleye prize of $20,000, and regional listings for later derbies have shown a $25,000 grand prize and up to $50,000 in total prizes for some recent events.
The BON Lands & Resources Department is managing logistics and has emphasized fish-health monitoring and conservation measures. Organizers say they are integrating more robust conservation monitoring this year to help ensure the lake remains productive for future generations. Anglers will be required to follow competition rules and stewardship measures established by the Nation.
Residents should expect heavier traffic and limited parking near the lakeshore and on roads connecting to Beausejour. Organizers say the derby is an important economic driver for the Beausejour area; registration typically opens at 7:00 AM and fishing usually begins at 10:00 AM. Tickets are available through the Nation’s website; in past years they were also sold at local retailers such as Wavers of Brokenhead.
