Chantry Chinook Fishing Derby

The first Lake Huron Fishing Club fish enhancement project was the construction of a Chinook salmon production facility in the Town of Port Elgin. To fund the construction and ongoing operation of this facility, the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was established in 1983. Now in its 41st year, the derby has grown into a highly anticipated multi-day event and a cornerstone fundraiser for the Lake Huron Fishing Club.

Over the years, the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support two fish hatcheries operated by the Lake Huron Fishing Club, as well as a variety of community and conservation initiatives.

The 2025 Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was held from July 25 to August 3, continuing its strong tradition of participation and community support. Approximately 1,400 tickets were sold for this year’s event, reflecting another successful year for the popular derby.

Garrett Billing of Pike Bay set the early pace on the first day of the derby, catching a 19.04 lb, 37-inch Chinook Salmon within the first hour and a half of competition. The fish was weighed in at the Lion’s Head Marina weigh station and remained the largest salmon recorded at that location throughout the derby. Billing also claimed the daily catch prize for July 25, 2025.

The overall winning salmon of the 2025 Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was weighed in at Wiarton. Dave Wolley secured first place with a 20.86 lb, 36.25-inch Chinook Salmon. The award for Biggest Trout went to Jonathan Dow, who caught a 23.28 lb, 35-inch Lake Trout, weighed in at Kincardine.

Bruce Telecom was proud to be a silver sponsor of the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby and the sponsor of the internet and phone lines at the derby weigh stations, helping ensure reliable connectivity throughout the event. Bruce Telecom is pleased to support this long-standing local derby that gives back to both the community and Lake Huron’s fisheries.

For more information about the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby and upcoming events, visit their website.