CRAIG, Colo. – If you love fishing and would like to earn $1,500 while doing so, then you might want to practice your casting techniques starting now.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting every angler of every age and skill to prepare for the Elkhead Reservoir Fishing Classic, held at the reservoir located near Craig from June 24 to July 2.
Any angler that catches the 2017 tagged northern pike can keep the fish and the $1,500 grand prize. The same can be said for the angler who catches the tagged smallmouth bass.
Other prizes include: $750 for the most northern pike caught, and $750 for the most smallmouth caught at the reservoir.
If no one catches the tagged fish, CPW will hold a drawing and lucky participants will win the cash prizes, according to CPW spokesman Mike Porras.
Anyone interested in participating must register at the reservoir during the event to be eligible for prizes. Entry fees are not required.
"Another fun part of catching northern pike and smallmouth bass at Elkhead Reservoir is that there are no bag and possession limits for these two species there, and at most other waters on the Western Slope," said Senior Aquatic Biologist Lori Martin.
Current state fishing and boating requirements apply but angles under 16 years of age can fish for free and anyone 64 and older can purchase a license for $1.
CPW recommends you buy a fishing license before heading out to the reservoir. Anglers may purchase a fishing license over the phone by calling 800-244-5613.
The licenses can also be purchased online.
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