Ice Classic

For the previous 10-years, come the last week in January, anglers have flocked to Nelson Reservoir for a Saturday fishing tournament to honor a Phillips County legend; Robert "Murph" Murphy.

This year, because of an application stipulation with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the name of Murph's Annual Fishing Tournament had to be changed and the name Ice Classic Fishing Derby was arrived at. Though the name was changed, the sentiment for Murph remains.

"Everyone still shared stories about him and he is still in our hearts," said Rhonda Dalby, one of the event's organizers. "It was a smaller turnout than last year, but everyone had just as much fun. The name of the event changed, but the idea behind it didn't."

Rhonda and nearly a dozen ran the tournament from the inside of the Buffalo Barn near Nelson, keeping the chili warm and the fish weighed. Longtime tournament fish weighmaster Pete Dalby said the fishing seemed a little slower than years past, but added that when contestants were bringing fish in to be weighed, it seemed as if they were larger than usual.

"Seems like a fair trade," Pete added.

A total of 172 people participated at the First Annual Ice Classic and at the end of the night the main banquet was held, winners were announced and prizes were given away. As in years past, once all the expenses have been covered, Rhonda and the rest of the event's organizers will look to donate the remaining proceeds to Phillips County Organizations.

Ice Classic Winners (Adults)

Walleye: Wally Perez, 9.6 lbs, 31 inches. Northern Pike: Matt Poole, 12 lbs, 36 inches. Perch: Jim Miller, 1.2 lbs, 14 inches.

Ice Classic Kids under 11 winners

Perch: Kaden Barrett, age 10, 12 oz and 13 inches. Northern Pike: Maria Meneely, age 3, 5 lbs, 30 inches. Walleye: Bobby Mayer, age 8, 5.7 lbs, 26 inches.

Ice Classic Kids 12 and up winners

Perch: Wyatt Brookie, age 12, 14 oz, 12 inches. Northern Pike: Wyatt Brookie, age 12, 4.6 lbs, 28 inches. Walleye: Sam Malmend, age 13, 6.6 lbs, 28 inches.