Inuvik (Jun 30/06) - Jo Jo Arey was armed with a fish net and fed the mass of people at the Aboriginal Day celebrations, but he didn't do it alone.

"I had Peter Sellamio out with me, we brought about 300 fish back," said Arey.

Tom Williams was one of the cooks of traditional food at the Aboriginal Day celebrations. Traditional hunters and fishermen brought in the haul of whitefish, caribou, geese, rabbit and other local meats. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

The pair were out fishing at one of Arey's favourite locations, near Airport Creek.

"I try and get out there a few times a year, depending on what season," said Arey.

When the fish are biting, Arey said he picks up lots for himself and his pack of dogs.

"I run dogs, and they need to eat something filling," he explained.

The nets were set two weeks before the celebrations but Arey said he only needed a week to grab his haul.

"We had enough, so we packed it all in after a week," said Arey.

The task of gathering the river fish was challenging, but Arey said it was worth it because of the cause.

"We had to feed the whole town and we're ready," he said.

Ingamo Hall program director Susan Ross was helping out with the preparations.

"We got the fish from Jo Jo, and had other hunters bring in other foods as well," said Ross.

Wild birds were among the food featured at a feast held that evening.

"We got geese, ducks, rabbits and caribou for the people here," explained Ross.

Volunteers made the event come together, with people giving their ovens for the feast.

"We got a lot of donuts, and bannock from people in town," she said.

A crew of cooks were on hand to feed the people at the event, and didn't mind being surrounded by massive lines.