'Hard Water Classic' coming to Blackwell Forest Preserve

Prizes will be awarded at the "Hard Water Classic" for the largest three largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. Daily Herald file photo

Ice-fishing enthusiasts can test their skills and compete for prizes in the "Hard Water Classic" tournament from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at Blackwell Forest Preserve on Butterfield Road just west of Winfield Road near Warrenville.

Anglers of all ages can enjoy camaraderie and competition on 62-acre Silver Lake, a multispecies fishery that is one of the DuPage County's largest and most popular. Prizes will be awarded for the largest three largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. A gas-powered auger will be awarded for the overall largest fish of the tournament. All registrants will have a chance to win door prizes including ice shelters, augers, a fish finder, rod-and-reel combinations and tip-ups.

Registration is $15 in advance. For details and registration information, visit dupageforest.org/HWClassic.

Proceeds will support district programs that provide outdoor experiences for special-needs groups, youth groups, Scouts and community-resource centers in DuPage County.

Participants must bring their own gear and bait and comply with all applicable fishing regulations and tournament rules. Anglers 16 and older who are not legally disabled must have valid Illinois fishing licenses in their possession. Check-in is 11 to 11:45 a.m. Fishing starts at noon and ends promptly at 3:30 p.m. If ice conditions are unsafe on Jan. 11, the tournament will take place Saturday, Feb. 8. For more information on the "Hard Water Classic," call (630) 876-5931.