Winter anglers, get ready to drop a line at the Annual Island Lake Ice Fishing Derby, running February 7 to 16, 2026 at Island Lake Conservation Area in Orangeville. Hosted in partnership with Credit Valley Conservation (CVC), Credit Valley Conservation Foundation and the Friends of Island Lake (FOIL), this winter tradition is open to participants of all ages. Don’t miss this great opportunity to experience the best of Ontario’s winter outdoor activities.

The Ice Fishing Derby offers anglers a chance to win cash prizes totalling more than $2,500 across several big‑catch categories. Adults can compete for prizes awarded to the top three Northern pike and the largest yellow perch and black crappy.

Young anglers can compete in the youth category, where awards go to contestants with the three longest fish of any species. This event brings families together, encouraging parents and children to fish side by side as they enjoy time outside.

Enter to Win a Credit Valley Parks Annual Family Pass

Participants who register before noon on February 6 will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a Credit Valley Parks Annual Family Pass, valued at $158. Don’t miss this great opportunity.

How to Register

Anglers can sign up online or by phone until February 15, or in person at the park’s Rental Shop until noon on February 16. Registration fees are $35 for adults (13 years old and up) and $10 for youth (12 years old and under). Daily park admission applies.

A valid Ontario Fishing Licence is required except during Ontario Family Fishing Weekend, running February 14 to 16, when anyone can fish licence‑free. Island Lake’s Rental Shop offers ice rod rentals, ice hut rentals and minnows, making it easy for new anglers to join the fun.

For full event details or to register, visit IslandLakeDerby.ca.

If you can’t participate but still want to support FOIL and local conservation efforts, visit cvcfoundation.ca/donate/island-lake.

Supporting Conservation with Every Catch

Island Lake Conservation Area hosts two popular fishing derbies each year, one in winter and one in summer. These events help connect people with nature while raising funds to support ongoing conservation efforts that protect, restore and enhance the natural environment.

About Credit Valley Conservation

Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is a local conservation authority established by the Ontario government in 1954 to protect, restore and enhance the natural environment of the Credit River Watershed. Our watershed is defined by the area of land where all rainfall, snowmelt and runoff drains into lands and waters flowing into the Credit River. CVC creates connections between people and nature, knowledge, and action. We inspire a deep appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. CVC is a member of Conservation Ontario.

About Credit Valley Conservation Foundation 
Credit Valley Conservation Foundation is a registered environmental charity dedicated to protecting and conserving the lands and waters of the Credit River Watershed. The Foundation raises funds to support vital conservation initiatives and events led by Credit Valley Conservation (CVC), helping to safeguard the health and well-being of the watershed, its flora and fauna, and the communities that depend on it—both now and for generations to come. Through this work, CVC inspires a deep appreciation for nature’s essential role in keeping people connected, healthy, and happy.

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Media Contact
Jamie Williams
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Credit Valley Conservation
905-431-5772
Email

CVCF Media Contact
Kristi Boulton
Communications Coordinator
Credit Valley Conservation Foundation
647-285-8738
Email