Seeley Lake Hosts First Annual 'Pike On Ice' Fishing Derby

The two-day event will feature $1,000 in cash prizes across multiple categories.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The first-ever 'Pike On Ice' Fishing Derby will take place on March 18 and 19 in the Seeley Lake area of Montana, featuring a 'chain of lakes' including Seeley Lake, Salmon Lake, Lakes Alva and Inez. The $25 entry fee will go towards building the Seeley-Swan Eagle's Nest Playground, with $1,000 in cash prizes up for grabs for the heaviest fish, biggest two-day bag limit, and a kids division.

Why it matters

This new fishing derby aims to bring the local community together around a popular winter activity, while also raising funds for a community playground project. Seeley Lake is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, and this event could become an annual tradition that draws visitors to the area.

The details

The 'Pike On Ice' Fishing Derby will take place across the 'chain of lakes' in the Seeley Lake region, including Seeley Lake, Salmon Lake, Lakes Alva and Inez. Anglers can compete for $1,000 in cash prizes across three categories: heaviest fish, biggest two-day bag limit, and a kids division. Tournament rules and applications are available at local sporting goods stores in Seeley Lake and Missoula.

  • The 1st Annual 'Pike On Ice' Fishing Derby will be held on March 18 and 19, 2026.

The players

Seeley-Swan Eagle's Nest Playground

The community playground project that will receive proceeds from the fishing derby entry fees.

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The takeaway

This new winter fishing event aims to bring the Seeley Lake community together around a popular outdoor activity, while also raising funds for a local playground project. The derby could become an annual tradition that attracts visitors to the area and supports community development.