By Carla Kolbe

Express Editor

BROADALBIN - The Great Sacandaga Lake Fisheries Federation (GSLFF) held its annual winter ice fishing tournament at the Sacandaga Boat Club in North Broadalbin Saturday, bringing 263 adult, and 22 youth anglers out to (hopefully) snag the big one.

This winter, the GSLFF ran its winter tournament in conjunction with the fourth annual Walleye Challenge, allowing for northern pike, perch and trout to be measured in.

The walleye catch was reserved for the Walleye Challenge only. According to GSLFF Chairman Randy Gardinier, this would allow the fishermen to only bring the walleye to one location, and the fish could in turn be quickly returned to the lake, supporting the catch and release tournament.

GSLFF winners for northern pike were: first place Joshua Boles of Gloversville, second place Tom Douglas of Milton; and third place George Dempsey of Niskayuna.

There was a three-way tie for first place in perch with all three contestants bringing in a 13 1/4” fish: Ira Cromling of Broadalbin, Dan Mussen of Broadalbin, and Jacob Elrod of Hagaman.

In the trout division, Jon Wilcox of Wells finished in first and second place, while Les Kruger of Amsterdam came in third.

The tournament coordinators were pleased with the turnout and success of this winter’s event. Committee members at Saturday’s event included Bob Nielsen, Jack Smith, Rich Miczek, John Fura, John Wszolek, Gus Muller, Brian Kedik, and Rich Kedik.