An attempt to lure anglers from outside of the area to Rainy Lake.
The Rainy River Future Development Corporation and the town’s Municipal Accommodation Tax Advisory group plan to award $5,000 to an angler who catches a specially tagged bass.
Spokesperson Emma Dykstra says they hope it lends a hand to local lodge owners who are impacted by the pandemic and the closed US border.
“We decided to put in a special prize to compensate for the lack of American tourists we’re going to be receiving this year. We’re really excited about the attention that it’s going to bring from all around the area,” says Dykstra.
Only anglers who reside outside of the area and stay at a local hotel or camp are eligible for the prize.
Dykstra says they don’t see any concern with people coming to the area during a pandemic.
“We believe that all of the businesses that are operating your area currently are following strict safety guidelines, and we’re sure that visitors will as well. Let’s face it, fishing is a great social distancing activity. It’s not like people will be too close,” says Dykstra.
If a local resident catches the fish, they will receive will a $200 cash prize. Dykstra says the fish is well marked.
“It is a green tag and contains the word win along with a secret code. When you believe you caught it, you must bring it to Rainy River Future Development.”
The contest will run until the fish is caught or October 1.