More to tourney than just the fishing!

Ken Johnston

If you thought the RRWT is only about big time fishing for prizes you are only half right!
Over the course of the year a committee of hard working volunteers do not just work on coordinating the fishing tournament, they also work on filling in the time slots during and after the fishing with fun things for everyone.
Everything kicks off with the biggest parade the town has seen all year; the 8th annual RRWT Parade of Boats. Anglers get a chance to strut their equipment’s stuff for all to see. Some have big and fancy while others go for stealth and modesty. Many, if not all the anglers, also get a chance to show their appreciation for the fans during the parade by throwing out goodies such as candy, hats, tackle and other great stuff along the route. Parade time is slated for Thurs. Sept. 21 at 4:00 p.m. and will see the boats come right down Main St. in Rainy River and end up at the Big Tent, which is situated on the river front at Hannam Park.
A private dinner for all 168 contestants will be held at the tent that evening. After that, at 6:30 p.m., all the teams will be introduced and the rules will be gone over. The public is welcome to attend that.
The next fun thing for the public to enjoy will be a variety show featuring Fiddler and Jigger, Sierra Noble plus a whole lot more!
Just before the anglers weigh-in on Friday (4:45 p.m.) the ever popular penny prize tables will be opened for the weekend at 3 p.m.
To feed the crowd’s hunger that evening, The always popular Masonic Lodge Fish Fry will be held at the tent.
After some eats, crowds can stick around for a dance featuring Thinking of Pinky at 9 p.m.
Saturday morning kids get to have a bunch of fun when the annual RR Play School kids games and face painting will kick off at 10 a.m
At 11 the kids fishing tournament will be held at the Government Dock and if the last few years are any indicator, every spot will be filled!
Last year’s defending champ, Tyler Thunder, of Rainy River, also won the Morson Bass International kid’s tournament this year. He will surely be one to watch this year in RR!
All kids 16 and under are welcome to participate. It is hosted by the O.P.P.
Later in the day the penny table prizes will be drawn before the final weigh-ins begin.
After the weigh-ins the World Famous Legion Steak Fry will be held at the tent.
That evening the RRWT committee has brought in former 70s and 80s rock superstars Harlequin to rock the night away under the tent.
There will also be food booths at the park all day and designated driver services will be available.