If you’re an angler looking for a thrilling winter adventure, the 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest is the event you can’t miss. Taking place in January 2025 (exact dates TBD), this annual competition brings together fishing enthusiasts from across the country to test their skills on the ice of Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Reservoir, and Grand Lake. As the longest-running ice fishing contest west of the Mississippi, this three-day event offers not just the excitement of the sport, but also tens of thousands of dollars in cash prizes, camaraderie, and the stunning beauty of Colorado’s winter landscape.
What Makes the 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest Special?
This isn’t your average ice fishing trip—this is three days of intense competition across three lakes, each offering its own challenges and opportunities. You can participate for one, two, or all three days, with categories for Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout (Mackinaw), and the much-coveted Grand Slam prize, which requires catching one of each type of fish. Cash prizes are awarded daily to the top seven contestants in each category, with the Grand Slam champion walking away with $1,200!
And for those anglers who want even more excitement, there’s a chance to win $1,000 by catching one of the tagged fish. Ten lucky fish are specially marked for the competition, adding an extra layer of thrill as you cast your line through the ice.
Family Fun and Friendly Competition
This event is not just for the seasoned pros. With children’s categories and fun prizes like trophies and giveaways, it’s perfect for families looking to enjoy a winter day on the ice. There’s nothing like seeing kids’ faces light up as they reel in their catch of the day! Even if you’re not after the cash prizes, the chance to be part of this friendly, community-driven event makes it well worth the trip to Granby.
And don’t worry about ice safety—event organizers keep a close watch on conditions to ensure participants are fishing on stable ice, and safety reminders will be posted regularly.
Why You Should Attend
The 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of Colorado’s rugged winter beauty and the sport of ice fishing. Whether you’re a serious competitor or just looking to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family, this event offers something for everyone. Plus, the scenic surroundings of Lake Granby and its neighboring lakes make for a breathtaking backdrop as you fish.
Extend the Experience with a Stay at The Jabberwocky
After a full day on the ice, nothing beats retreating to the cozy warmth of The Jabberwocky. Located just minutes from the lakes, The Jabberwocky offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ensuring you have a relaxing place to recharge after the day’s excitement.
Enjoy a hot meal, warm up by the fire, and reflect on the day’s catches as you prepare for another round of fishing or simply take in the beauty of the Colorado winter. Book your stay now and turn the 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest into an unforgettable winter getaway!
