Photo above: Father and daughter Derek and Skylar of Taunton display their freshly caught pickerel. (Martin Luttrell)

by Martin Luttrell

The frozen expanse of Lake Nipmuc was dotted with pop-up shelters, ice fishing tip-ups and fishermen bundled up against the cold last weekend, competing in the 4th Annual Mendon Brothers of the Brush Ice Fishing Derby.

A total of 29 adults and four children entered the Feb. 7 event, which raised about $600. Brothers of the Brush Vice President Bruce Bartlett said in an email that the ice fishing derby is primarily a community event focused on engagement, and also serves to support the organization’s initiatives.

Adult entrants competed for largest bass and pickerel caught, while kids were judged on the largest fish caught, regardless of type.

Father and daughter Derek and Skylar of Taunton had several tip-ups set through the ice and caught a few perch and pickerel. It was their first time on Lake Nipmuc, though they plan to compete in several derbies this year.

“We follow the derbies,” Derek said. “We’ll probably do six this winter.”

Bartlett said the funds raised will support the organization’s various programs, such as the Elden H. Barrows Memorial Scholarship Fund, Thanksgiving Meals for Seniors, and the annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting

The Brothers of the Brush, established in 1967, is a nonprofit community organization dedicated to improving and promoting public spirit and cooperation in the community.

Slideshow, left to right: Blackstone residents Jaycob Machado-DeSouza and children’s winner Sarkis Apar, right, with his winning 2.4-pound pickerel; Rob Minechello, Jr., shows off his winning 1.86-lb pickerel; taking a hot chocolate break, from left, “Tall Dave” of Medway, Drew Cowell, J.J. Cowell and Cole Cowell, all of Mendon, and Greg Connell of Connecticut; Bob Bromley with his winning 3.86-lb large-mouth bass. (Martin Luttrell)