Hook the Hawg Salmon Derby anglers flock to marina

Anglers from around the region poured in last weekend for this summer's Hook the Hawg Salmon Derby at the Elochoman Marina. The Thursday through Saturday Derby saw over 85 participating anglers compete for daily catch prizes, tournament cash prizes, and a raffle ticket for every fish turned in.

John Thaxton took home the tournament grand prize with his catch of a 22lb 6oz salmon in Area 521 of the Columbia River. Taking home second and third place respectively were Jack Nelson and Rich Casapulla. Daily biggest fish prizes were also awarded to Kinda Elswick and Scott Coplen. In addition, any angler that turned in a fish was entered into a raffle of prizes from local businesses.

"Just another great turnout for a great event," said Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ryan Murillo. "All the folks at the marina having a great time and doing some great fishing is always rewarding to see."

The Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Elochoman Marina, hosts the event twice a year in both spring and summer. The last event was slightly disappointing with poor fishing conditions despite nearly 80 registered for the event and only one fish being turned in.

This past event saw much better success with over 40 fish turned in.

"Conditions in the river were much better this go around," said Port Manager Todd Souvenir. "In spring, the weather and some dam openings kinda muddled the river and anglers were left disappointed. Now, in August we saw much better weather conditions that I think folks really enjoyed."Look for the next Hook The Hawg Salmon Derby next spring.