Jeff Jones caught this pike, which weighed in at more than 20 lbs.

CRANBERRY LAKE – The Cranberry Lake Fire and Rescue Department says its ‘First Strike’ Cranberry Lake Ice Fishing Derby Saturday was an enormous success with a 20.5 lb. pike the highlight of the day.

Organizers said they were thrilled that due to the unusually cold weather leading up to the tournament, the ice build-up provided anglers with 10 to 15 inches of ice on most of the lake.

This year’s derby date was changed from past years and, according to Derby Chairperson, Karen Soltau, “the new date provided perfect ice fishing.”

Organizers say 100 people shared in over $10,000 in prizes.

Jeff Jones of Alexandria Bay caught the biggest fish, a 20.5 lbs. pike, while a 17.3-pounder was caught by Roy Pierce of Redwood, and Nathen Durfee of Tupper Lake brought in a 17 lb. fish.

“Next year we look forward to welcoming ice fisherman from all over the North Country, surrounding states and Canada. It’s always a remarkable day and lots of fun for the whole family,” Soltau said.

Known for its legendary fishing, Cranberry Lake is the third largest lake in the Adirondacks and one of the most popular fishing destinations, both summer and winter.

“We are already planning for the 2015 “First Strike” Ice Fishing Derby,” Soltau said. The date will be announced next month.”