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The working forest works to support rural community ice fishing tournaments

More than 300 people descended on lakes in New Brunswick’s Grand Lake region over the course of four weekends this winter as part of both the annual Family Day Ice Fishing and Tri-Lake Ice Fishing tournaments.

Hosted by the Municipality of Grand Lake and sponsored by Irving Woodlands, the fishers competed for the coveted $3,000 ice fishing package provided in collaboration with Bass Pro Shop. 

Competitors caught more than just fish throughout the events, with plenty of winter fun and camaraderie on offer for both registrants and their friends and family alike. Thanks to volunteers from Irving Woodlands and the Municipality of Grand Lake, attendees were treated to warm beverages, snacks and bonfires to ward off the winter chill.

But ultimately it was Gunnar Emberley and Kara Good who took home the grand prizes for the Family Day and Tri-Lake tournaments, respectively.

Gunnar emberley family day ice fishing winner 2025

Kara Good tri-lake ice fishing winner 2025

“These events showcase the essence of community spirit and the joy of wintertime tradition,” said Robert Fawcett, Director of Corporate Relations for Irving Woodlands. “The working forest plays a vital role in communities such as Grand Lake, and supporting these areas is key to our practices.”

Each year the local events see strong community participation, thanks to support from people like event organizer Ralph Goodwin and Grand Lake Mayor Kevin Nicklin, both of whom attended the events.

"We enjoy being able to engage with people from New Brunswick and beyond, including our own team members and their families,” Fawcett said. “It's also a great chance for people in rural areas to become closer and foster a strong sense of togetherness." 

Irving Woodlands looks forward to continuing this beloved tradition and seeing both new and familiar faces at the event next year.

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