Mount Vernon's Raymond Francois takes lead in Roche Harbor derby with 16.4-pound catch

With one hour of fishing left in the second day of the three-day Roche Harbor Salmon Classic Invitational, Raymond Francois of Mount Vernon took the lead with a 16.4-pound catch.

Earlier in the day, only one ounce separated the three leaders of the seventh annual classic, which began Feb. 4 and concludes Feb. 6.

The derby was sold out, with 100 boats arriving at Roche Harbor Marina Feb. 4 for the derby kickoff. Joel Shangle of KJR 950 sports radio will broadcast live from the derby all day Feb. 6, with guest Tony Floor, Roche Harbor derby judge.

Here's the leaderboard as of Feb. 5 at 4 p.m.

— Raymond Francois, Mount Vernon: 16.4.
— Neal Kamrin, Bellevue: 15.13.
— David Arnold, Ferndale: 15.12.
— Scott Veitz, Everett: 15.11.
— Richard Price, Ferndale, 14.12.

The Salmon Classic Invitational is a three-day sport fishing event that attracts anglers from all over the Northwest and Canada. Anglers compete for $30,000 in cash and prizes.

Cash prizes include $10,000, first place; $5,000, second place; $3,000, third place; $2,000, fourth place; $1,000, fifth place; $2,000, Mystery Fish; and $2,000, Best Boat Total Weight — all in cash.

Frank Wilson Memorial Winter Blackmouth Derby
The sixth annual Frank Wilson Memorial Winter Blackmouth Derby is Feb. 1 to April 15.

All proceeds go to San Juan EMS. Entry fee is $50. Prize money: $1,000, first; $500, second; $250, third.

To enter, call or visit Sharon Beach at King’s Marine, 378-4593.

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