ERGC jamboree in Independence Saturday

While it has yet to be determined if there will actually be any ice fishing, the Elk Rod and Gun Club’s 65th Annual Ice Fishing Contest and Jamboree will still have a lot to offer. 

As of Monday, there was optimism that the ice would be thick enough for Saturday’s contest in Independence. 

A final call on if the ice is safe enough will be made later this week. Club president Mike Blaha said members will be drilling holes in several different areas of the lake and roping off any that are deemed unsafe. 

“We certainly want to make sure that it is safe,” Blaha said. “We want to make sure that everyone that comes goes home safely.” 

Even if there can’t be any ice fishing, attendees still have a chance to come away with prizes. 

Club officials said that regardless of the ice conditions, much of what brings people to the city for the event will still be held. The club will still hold $100 cash drawings every 15 minutes as well as special prize drawings with cash prizes of $5,000 for first place, $2,000 for second and $1,000 for third. 

Various other raffles will be held with prizes that include an AR15 Snow Camo rifle, a 1911 handgun, a 6.5 Creedmoor Ruger and more. 

Live music by Sarah Jackson and the Endorphins Variety Band will hit the stage at 1 p.m. and play until 5. There will also be charcoal chicken and brats served, with a drive-through available.