It may have been cold, but the competition was heating up on the ice at Presque Isle as anglers brought their A-game on Saturday. Stephanie Logue stopped by the annual Flagship Ice Open to see how the freezing temperatures didn’t ice out the competition.
Ice fishing enthusiasts filled Misery Bay at the Perry Monument early Saturday morning for the annual Flagship Ice Open, hosted by the Erie Sports Commission.
Starting at 7 a.m., around 80 teams competed this year, with anglers spending hours out on the ice fishing for species like perch and bluegill.
Fishermen said the competition was tough, with the cold weather affecting how many fish were willing to bite. Still, they persevered — and for many, the tournament is about more than just winning. It’s about passion.
Buchheight said, “The passion for fishing — you know, we all love fishing. They always say the tug is the drug, so it keeps us going.”
Logue reported, “From early this morning, anglers from across the region came out to give it their all. The competition highlights how ice fishing has become very popular during the winter season.”
Another angler who has been fishing for years said the event gives people a chance to show off their skills while sharing their love for the sport with others who enjoy being out on the ice.
Bartholomew said, “It’s in our blood. You know, there’s more than just the fishing. This has actually been a thing since 2017 when it was the Western PA Hardwater Series. Him and I started fishing together in 2018, and we’ve been to every one since.”
Events like this also help create community among anglers. The tournament wrapped up Saturday afternoon with weigh-ins held at the conclusion of the competition.