08/31/2026
A Brief History of the Meaford Salmon Derby
We thought it would be helpful to share a little history about the Meaford Salmon Derby - how it came to be, how it has evolved, and why we continue to host it.
About 23 years ago, the East Grey Hunters & Anglers Club decided to end the fall Salmon Derby they had previously hosted. Around the same time, some families who camped behind our boats approached us about starting a small, friendly derby of their own.
Their goal was simple: to continue coming to Meaford to enjoy fishing the shores of Georgian Bay, have a little friendly competition, and, most importantly, make memories with their families and children.
What started as a small competition among friends quickly grew as more local people became interested in participating. From the beginning, the focus has been on enjoying the outdoors, getting youth involved in fishing, spending time with family and friends, and sharing a love of our local waters.
We also wanted to create an opportunity for everyone to come together at the end of the week, so the closing BBQ was added. It became a chance for anglers to share stories, talk about their time on the water, and enjoy some good food and good company.
How the Derby Has Evolved
In the beginning, tickets were $20, with cash prizes for the top three heaviest Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Lake Trout, along with additional donated draw prizes.
Over the years, we’ve listened to feedback from participants at the closing BBQ and made changes based on what the majority wanted. Ticket prices were increased so we could offer larger cash prizes, and the derby was eventually shifted to place a greater focus on Salmon.
Today, tickets are $30 for adults and $5 for youth under 18. Cash prizes are awarded for the top three Salmon, as well as the top Rainbow Trout and Lake Trout, along with draw prizes that are generously donated.
A Little Clarification About How the Derby Works
All money collected through ticket sales goes toward the cash prizes.
Draw prizes are voluntarily donated and unsolicited. Everyone is, and always has been, welcome to donate. The majority of donated prizes come from U Catch’em Bait & Tackle, along with some local businesses that regularly choose to support the derby.
The scale at the weigh station allows anglers to weigh their own fish and see where they stand on the leaderboard. If a fish beats the current leader, a harbour attendant verifies the weight.
If the harbour office is closed, phone numbers are provided on the leaderboard so someone can be contacted to verify a fish. Someone will come out to assist, generally within about 10 minutes.
And perhaps most importantly, everyone involved in organizing and running the derby is a volunteer.
We are incredibly grateful to our local harbour attendants, who generously help with ticket sales and fish weighing. The Town also donates the food for the BBQ, while volunteers prepare and cook it.
2026 Meaford Salmon Derby Final Results
And now, the results are in!
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners:
First Place Salmon: Kenny McLay - 23.70 lbs - $2,000
Second Place Salmon: Roy Vandermeer - 20.50 lbs - $1,000
Third Place Salmon: Dylan Green - 19.40 lbs - $500
Top Lake Trout: Keith Angel - 16.60 lbs - $250
Top Rainbow Trout: Caleb Higginson - 9.40 lbs - $250
Congratulations to all of our winners! And a huge thank-you to everyone who came out and participated this year. Every fish caught, story shared, and family memory made is part of what makes this derby special.
It’s Always Been About Community
The derby has always been about bringing people together and creating a fun, affordable way for families, friends, and fishing enthusiasts to enjoy our community and the beautiful waters around Meaford.
If you’d like to get involved, volunteer, donate a prize, or even take on the organization of the derby, we’d be happy to have the help.
To everyone who participates, volunteers, donates, or simply comes out to enjoy the BBQ and share in the fun - thank you.
As long as our community continues to enjoy and support the Meaford Salmon Derby, we’re happy to keep hosting it and helping create a few more fishing memories along the way.
Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the water!
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