Community Gathers for Men’s Mental Health Fishing Derby
RONAN – Over 100 individuals came together at Kicking Horse Reservoir on June 11, 2026, for the annual Men’s Mental Health Fishing Derby. This energetic event aims to promote mental health awareness while providing a relaxed environment for outdoor fun and community support.
Participants registered early, with 61 sign-ups by 7 a.m. and a total of 101 by 9 a.m., marking one of the highest turnouts in the event’s history. Since its inception in 2022, the derby, organized by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Health and Natural Resources Departments, has seen a growing participation, nearly tripling from earlier years.
This year, there was a shift in focus to northern pike due to the invasive carp species affecting the reservoir. While common carp have been the typical catch in past derbies, the change aimed to tackle local ecological concerns.
Participants competed for prizes in several categories, including the first pike caught, the heaviest pike, and the most pike. Gary Nelson snagged the first pike of the day, while Brandon Moran caught the biggest at 8.55 pounds. Other winners included Jason McDonald, Michael Irvine, Chuck Morigeau, and Adrian Stasso.
In addition to fishing, the event emphasized health and wellness. Participants explored various informational booths and were encouraged to collect signatures from five stations to qualify for grand prizes. One station, hosted by the THD Dental Clinic, provided blood pressure checks and cholesterol monitoring.
Todd Espinoza, a co-organizer, highlighted the event’s spirit, stating, “It’s more than just catching fish. It’s about bringing people together and supporting one another.”
Lunch included delicious bison burgers, hot dogs, and fruit salad, all prepared by cooks Frank Oldhorn and Ty Adams. For younger attendees, every child received a fishing pole or tackle box to encourage exploration of the great outdoors.
As the day wrapped up, participants enjoyed not only fishing but also a strong sense of community and well-being. Plans for next year’s derby are already in the works, as changes to the Kicking Horse Reservoir will necessitate a new location for this important event. The Men’s Mental Health Fishing Derby continues to foster connections, prioritize wellness, and celebrate the natural beauty of the Flathead Reservation.
