This year’s derby contestants experienced good fishing, good times, and unsettled weather, as over 1,100 registered anglers took to local waters this past weekend.

Open Division: Bill Robillard of Anacortes mounted a late rally Sunday morning to upset the previous day’s big-fish by hanging a 24.62 pound Chinook on the official scale to take top honors and this year’s braggin’ rights.

Robillard’s fish was one of 156 total fish boated during the two day contest – which considering Saturday’s sloppy weather conditions, speaks quite well to the fishing prowess of the contestants.

Also Ran(s): Mike Bredeson of Everson won $5,000 for his 2^nd place finish with a 20.24 pound fish which stood atop the leader board as the scales closed on Saturday evening – easily beating Steve Martin of Bellingham, who took home $2,500 for 3^rd place finish with his 18.72 pound entry.

I’ve Got A Secret: Paul Mcabee of Bellingham was in the right place at the right time and saw his 9.72 pounder come closest to a pre-determined weight in the Secret Weight category worth $2,500.00.

Ladies First: Kelli Martin of Lynden won the Women’s Division bracket with a 13.66 pound fish – disappointing all other distaff contenders – and took home an creel-full of prizes as well as the trophy for her winning effort.

Young Guns: Trevor Westman of Oak Harbor was the best-of-the-best in the Youth Division (14 years and under) with his 14.64 pound fish, beating out more than 40 other youthful hopefuls for the top prize. Each and every youngster took home a custom-made participation medal, and assuredly, some fond memories.

GAFFF: The 2^nd Annual Great Anacortes Fishing Film Festival was well received as the 500-plus folks in attendance were treated to some exciting video footage of some wide-open fishing action.  The winner of the Pro Division was Charter Captain and radio show host Rob Ensley of Gig Harbor and Craig, AK.  Winning the Amateur Division was Jim Ramos of Sedro-Woolley, as well as the crowd’s choice for the Silver Horde Anglers’ Choice Award. “I think it was a success and a great encore to the inaugural event-within-an-event,” said Derby Board Chairman Jay Field.  “I hope others watching were inspired to submit entries for next year’s show.”

It’s A Wrap: “I know I say it every year … this year’s event was the best one to date,” said 2014 Event Chairman Terry Nemeth. “Everyone I’ve talked to this weekend was having a great time. Most indicated that this was their favorite fishing derby. This event is the result of hundreds and hundreds of hours of planning and effort by the Board of Directors of the Anacortes Salmon Derby and members of the host organization: the Fidalgo-San Juan Islands Chapter of the Puget Sound Anglers.” Nemeth went on to say: “This charitable community event could not take place without the ongoing support from the Port of Anacortes, the generosity of local businesses, those businesses with ties to the fishing community, and an all volunteer staff.

The proceeds from this derby fund scholarships to young adults pursuing a career in fishery management and related fields.  The Derby has distributed almost $200,000 in scholarships and grants in the past  seven years. For more information and photos, please go to: www.anacortessalmonderby.com