No Walleye World Fishing Derby in 2026
A spring fishing staple in the Quinte region will not be held next year and points to a larger issue.
The Kiwanis Club of Trenton has announced that the 43rd Kiwanis Walleye World Fishing Derby, scheduled for May 2026 has been cancelled.
The organization says the difficult decision comes after ongoing challenges with declining service club membership and volunteer capacity across the Quinte Region.
The derby has been one of Ontario’s largest annual fishing tournaments, attracting thousands of anglers and families to the Bay of Quinte region, generating millions of dollars to support local charities, youth programs, food initiatives, seniors’ services, recreation facilities, memorials and community events.
The event also created a significant economic boost for Quinte West and the surrounding area.
“The loss of the derby is not just the loss of a tradition,” says Lisa Kuypers Schroedter, president of the Kiwanis Club of Trenton. “It represents a serious gap in both community funding and local economic development. Service clubs like Kiwanis have always been a mainstay of support, but without strong membership, it becomes increasingly difficult to sustain events of this scale. Without a greater membership base, it is unlikely that the Walleye World Derby can return.”
Kuypers Schroedter says service clubs like Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions and others remain vital to the health and future of our community.
She encourages residents to attend a meeting, learn what each club has to offer, and see where their skills and interests best fit noting that by becoming a member, residents help ensure that vital programs, donations, events and traditions like the Walleye World Derby continue.
The Kiwanis Club of Trenton invites the public to continue celebrating the spirit of the Walleye World Fishing Derby by supporting our other local fundraising initiatives and community events.
Founded in 1951, the Kiwanis Club of Trenton is part of Kiwanis International and supports local youth programs, charities, and community projects through fundraising and volunteer service.
By Alana Cameron, quintnews
