The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Fishing is good, I heard a fellow say recently. Catching? He had a very different word for that.

Luckily, fishing was profitable for seven fishermen in last week's Hook the Hawg 2 fishing derby sponsored by the Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce and Wahkiakum County Port 1. While several people caught a fish, the seven, representing the top 10 percent of the entries, took home some prize money, all of which was generated by entry fees.

There were 70 adult entries and three youths participating for the second Hook the Hawg this year. Unfortunately, the youngsters were unable to haul anything in this time around.

According to Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce Monica Budd, over half of the entrants were from Wahkiakum County, but the other half came from all over western Washington. A couple from South Dakota even participated in the event.

Russ Martin, left, brought in the biggest fish on Thursday, winning $100. On Saturday, he learned that his 18.3 pound fish took second place in the derby, and won another $325. With him are Jill and Doug Martin with their own 10.7 and 7.14 pound salmon, respectively. Photo by Monica Budd, Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce.

James Fountain took home $475 for his first place, 19.3 pound fish. Russ Martin won $325 for his second place, 18.3 pound fish. Mike Beuslinch took third and got $250 for his 17.15 pound catch. The final four were Mike Kalahar at 15.1 pounds, Duane Johnson at 14.13 pounds, Donny Estill at 14.11 pounds, and Brandy Wood at 14.1 pounds. Their cash prizes combined for a total of $700.

Russell Martin won $100 for the biggest fish caught on Thursday, and James Fountain won $100 for the biggest fish caught on Friday. That money was donated by the Chamber, separate from the prize money generated by entries for the fishing derby.

Two youths who were in attendance at the awards ceremony were in the right place at the right time. Hunter Conrad and Landon Orr were given fishing rods donated by Astoria Englund Marine. Mike Nelson won a final drawing for a carrying case with three fishing flashers.

"Overall, I felt it was a huge success even if the fish were not cooperating with us," Budd said. "The participants were fantastic and a pleasure to be around, that is why I love this event so much."