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RANKIN INLET
Hundreds of people lined up with a catch they hoped would hook them some prize money at the Rankin Inlet fishing derby this past week.

Richard Sharp strains with the weight of his two prize-winning trout as Tommy Adams, back on step, catches the scene on video during the Rankin Inlet fishing derby's measuring day this past week. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

When the last tail was measured, Patrick Beardsall, 16, successfully defended his trout-catching crown by taking the top prize for a second year in a row.

Beardsall's catch measured 43.37 inches and earned him $6,000.

Patrick's mom, Emily, took the next three positions with catches of 43.31, 43.12 and 40.31 inches respectively, for a grand total of $9,000 in prize money.

Rounding out the top 10 were Maggio Kingmiaqtuq at 40.12 ($1,500), Innukshuk Angushadluk at 39.19 ($1,000), Richard Sharp with a pair at 39 for $1,250 and Beverly Innukshuk ($400) and Harry Towtongie ($300) at 38.94.

Elder Violet Twyee had the biggest cod of the weekend, measuring out at 27.5 inches and earning her $6,000.

Twyee was followed by Raymond Makpah at 24.81 ($4,000), Veronica Manilak at 24.75 ($3,000), Brian Angidlik at 24.69 ($2,000), Danny Autut at 24.19 ($1,500), Charlotte Hickes at 24.06 ($1,000), and George Hapana ($750), Monica Kaludjak ($500), Martha Angidlik ($400) and Darcy Kablalik ($300) at 24 inches.

The fishers enjoyed better weather conditions this time around than was the norm during the past few years.

And, despite Rankin's prizes being smaller than some communities, many people enjoyed a weekend away from town with friends and family trying to land the big one. Sharp nailed two prizes for trout this year.

Sharp said he takes part in the derby every year, but it's mainly for the prizes.

"I enjoy spending a nice long weekend at Peter Lake, and I have a favourite spot to fish there," said Sharp.

"But, I only go jigging during the derby.

"I really only like to go rod fishing."

Two-time trout champion Patrick Beavsdall said he enjoys spending time with his family at their cabin near Peter Lake.

He said it's kind of funny he's had the biggest trout two years in a row.

"To be honest, I don't really like fishing," said Beardsall. "I got my winners almost in the exact same spot.

"I only fish about two hours each day, but I like having the family together."

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