Everything you need for derby weekend: how to register, the rules, what you can win, where to go, and how to stay safe on the ice.
Registration
Registration runs through the FishDonkey app. Download it on your phone or tablet, search for the LVVA Ice Fishing Derby, and sign up.
2027 registration is not yet open. Follow us on Facebook or check back here for the announcement.
Rules
- All fish must be caught on Bangs Lake only. GPS in the app verifies your location.
- The FishDonkey app takes the photo of your catch and timestamps it.
- Minimum size to register a fish is 7 inches.
- Catch, photo, release.
Prize categories
Individual angler prizes are awarded for the largest fish in each species category, along with wild card items, door prizes and raffles.
- Northern Pike
- Bass
- Walleye
- Perch
- Crappie
- Bluegill
Kids prizes are awarded too, so bring the whole family.
2027 prize amounts and raffle items will be posted here as sponsors are confirmed.
Location & directions
The derby takes place on Bangs Lake at the LVVA Beachfront, 803 Edgewater Pkwy, Wauconda, IL 60084.
Parking and access details for the 2027 derby will be posted here closer to the event.
Ice safety
No fish is worth going through the ice. Know before you go.
- Under 4 inches: stay off.
- 4 inches of new, clear ice: walking and ice fishing.
- 5–7 inches: snowmobile or ATV.
- 8–12 inches: small car or light truck (we recommend keeping vehicles off the lake).
- Never fish alone, and tell someone where you’ll be.
- Check ice thickness as you go; ice is never uniformly thick across a lake.
- Avoid areas with moving water, springs, or visible cracks and pressure ridges.
- Carry ice picks, rope and a flotation device.
- White or snow-covered ice is weaker than clear ice.
Conditions on derby weekend will be assessed and communicated by organizers. If we call it unsafe, it’s unsafe.