WHITE LAKE– King of the Ice (KOI) celebrated a milestone year over the weekend. The ice fishing contest began in 1991, according to Jay Mendels, an officer of the Sullivan County Conservation Club and KOI committee member. The club organizes the event every year with the help of volunteers who help behind the scenes. “It’s been about 35 years! This is a fundraiser for the conservation club so that we can continue to do the community activities that we do. But it’s nice to support the sport in general and see all these kids come out.”

It is important to note that the contest promotes itself as a family-friendly activity while emphasizing the importance of educating the next generation. “One of the things we’re trying to encourage is bringing in more families and it’s free for children to participate. 

Mendels shared that there has been a drop in the number of people coming out. In the past, KOI attracted around 500 anglers. This year, KOI drew in over 300 participants, a great turnout nonetheless, compared to more recent years.

 Anglers of all ages could be seen spread out over the ice-covered lake. About 16 inches of ice to be exact; thick enough to drive ATVs, 4-wheelers, and much heavier vehicles. An ice thickness of 4 inches is considered safe enough for ice fishing. Luckily, the consistently cold temperatures over the past few weeks have been ideal. “The weather has been really good or really bad, depending on how you look at it, “ Mendels quipped! With temperatures struggling to break freezing over the past few weeks. Despite it warming above freezing on Saturday and Sunday, the overall conditions on the lake were not affected. A lot of excitement on the day surrounded junior angler Jason Wright, who landed an 8.6 lb 27.5” Walleye and was named “King of the Ice!” White Lake Fire Company has hosted KOI for the last eight years, shared past Fire Chief Brendon Cunningham. “It’s been great, we sell a little food here and there and help out where we can. For community collaboration, this is a great event to have. When the contest is over, the crowd gathers together. Doing this… It’s great to see people come out.” The contest began at 6 am with many arriving early to get out on the lake. Others arrived later in the day to join the fun. Half of the proceeds from the joint 50/50 raffle are donated to the White Lake Fire Company for their kindness in supporting the contest.