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As the owner of Brewster Bait and Tackle here in Brewster, I don’t get out on the ice myself these days, but I love hearing the stories from customers who do, and there’s no better event for those tales than the annual Molson Ice Fishing Derby on picturesque Sidley Lake in historic Molson, Washington on Jan. 17, 2026.
What keeps drawing crowds is the loyal group of fishermen who return year after year—some for decades—bundling up for that perfect mix of competition, camaraderie, and highland winter beauty. I heard the 2025 derby set a new record with over 200 participants. That is a lot of people that love fishing through the ice!
Expectations are high for an even bigger turnout in 2026.
The day kicks off with the famous pancake breakfast at the Molson Grange Hall, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., for me the highlight of the day after the exciting adventure up to the old Grange Hall in the early morning hours before daylight in town.
Registration starts at 7 a.m, followed by fishing from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Categories include longest fish, heaviest stringer, smallest catch, and fun ones like best-decorated shanty. Proceeds benefit community projects in the Okanogan Highlands, giving everyone a feel-good reason to join in.
We’re proud to announce that Brewster Bait and Tackle will be donating prizes and gear to support the 2026 event. As your local spot for quality tackle, lures, advice on trout, salmon, and more, we’re excited to give back and help make the derby even more rewarding for participants. Stop in the shop before the event and get some fresh maggots of worms that we have in stock. If you are coming in late on Friday before the derby, give me a text and I will be open for your needs- 509-449-0605.
Whether you’re a die-hard regular or thinking about giving ice fishing a try, mark your calendar and head to Sidley Lake this winter. The ice should be a foot deep by mid-January. It’s a tradition worth keeping alive….
Tightlines
MikeMAUK FISHING STUFF LLC
BREWSTER BAIT & TACKLE SHOP™LURESAFE™ luresafe.com
WE HAVE YOUR TACKLE COVERED™
BREWSTER KING SALMON DERBY™
Cell: 509-449-0605
Those not fishing can enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Molson Grange Hall 7–10 a.m. Afterward, the Grange becomes a cozy craft fair featuring local vendors. A warming tent on Sidley Lake serves hot cocoa. The ice fishing event also includes children’s activities, raffles, bingo and a lunch benefiting Sitzmark Ski Hill.
