This Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, scores of anglers of all ages will converge on Island Lake north of  Duluth for the University of Minnesota Duluth Athletic Department's 16th annual Subway Big Jig Fishing Contest. The event runs from 12 noon to 3 p.m. and is limited to the first 3,000 entrants. This marks the second year the event is being held at Island Lake (Hideaway Recreation Area - off HWY 4) and the 2016 Big Jig will feature several other new initiatives such as a college division, reserved parking, expanded VIP Heated Fishing Tents, and revamped prize board.  Anglers may also drill their own fishing hole or have one drilled for them for a $1.00 donation ($1 will qualify each angler for an ice auger raffle).

This year's Big Jig includes a $4,000 top prize. Among those prizes is the $4,000 first place, 1/2 day Charter Fishing on Lake Superior, Honda Outboard Motor, a three-day trip with Voyagaire Houseboats, Bulldogs Season Tickets, Hotel Stays, and much more. In addition, each entrant's name will be placed in a raffle for $500.  (click here to see full prize list)

At last year's Subway Big Jig, Aaron Blake, who reeled in the biggest fish of the day -- a  1.140-pund rock bass -- took home the inaugural Subway Big Jig six foot trophy.

Proceeds from the Subway Big Jig support the UMD athletic scholarship fund. Registration is open - click here:

• $99/VIP Tent
• $35/adult
• $10/UMD Student
• $5/youth (12 and under) 

Rules include a maximum of two lines per contestant (click here for official rules).  Entry forms for the Subway Big Jig are available on-line or by calling  218-726-6287.

UMD coaches and student-athletes all volunteer their services at the Subway Big Jig, which has raised approximately $35,000 annually for athletic scholarships. Subway has served as the title sponsor of the Big Jig since its debut in 2000 while Minnesota Resort Sales, Lamar, Minnesota Power, Gander Mountain, Harbor City Oil and Propane, Red Rock Radio and Arrowhead Printing are supporting sponsors.