If you haven't heard, the Almost Annual Crappie Derby has been rescheduled to February 8, 2014.

To understand the Almost Annual Crappie Derby, we have to go back to the beginning. Back to 1973.

One day in late 1973, two members of the Whitney Point Sportsmens Association were enjoying a “beverage” while discussing the outstanding ice fishing at what at the time was known as the Whitney Point Reservoir. The weather was nice and the crappies were loving the bait being offered to them. This all led to a discussion of “why not . . .”

A couple of phone calls were made and as they say “the rest is history.”

Over the years, the Crappie Derby has evolved into many things. They say if you want to see or be seen, this is an event not to miss. It’s an excuse to break cabin fever. As a matter of fact, the Crappie Derby has expanded into a family friendly event with members of the Whitney Point Sportsmens Association wandering the ice to look for kids who are bored so that they can give them a prize and add a little excitement to their day.

If you’re planning to go to this year’s Almost Annual Crappie Derby in Whitney Point, which has been resheduled for February 8, 2014,  here’s what you need to know:

The entry fee is $2 for anyone over the age of 12. Those younger are free. Free parking is available at Dorchester Park as well as Kiebel Road extension on the west side of Whitney Point Lake. There’s a midway with food and drink, port-a-johns, an animal exhibit by the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park, ice skating and more.

Learn more about the Almost Annual Crappie Derby and get weather updates of the lake conditions here.

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