Posted on by Mike Chase
ICHA FISHING TOURNAMENT - Biz X magazine
Photo: Mike Chase of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography.
08
Jun

BIZ X ON LOCATION – 24th Annual ICHA Fishing Derby June 6, 2026 At Assumption Park

The Italian Canadian HandiCapable Association (ICHA) hosted its annual Fishing Derby for individuals in the community with physical or intellectual disabilities on June 6, 2026 at Assumption Park in Windsor,
on the Detroit River, with support of their new official sponsors CCS & Ground Effects.

The event — now in its 24th year — offers participants the opportunity to go fishing in a controlled and safe environment.

According to the Fishing Derby Founder and Director, Pat Pagano, the motivation behind this event is to give individuals (at no charge) with a physical or intellectual disability living in our community, the opportunity to experience the sport of fishing.

Before you continue scrolling, we’ve got a whopper of a recap next. Hit play and be hooked! Warning, this video (MC Maria Connel, Pat Pagano, Italo Labignan and Windsor Yamaha included) may cause sudden urges to grab a rod and brag about your catch!


Now back to this article and more pictures . . . The derby is supervised by local professional fishermen and supported by organizations such as the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ontario Federation of Anglers
and Hunters, the Canadian Coast Guard, outdoor companies, and local bait and tackle shops.

“A donation or sponsorship provided are used to offset costs associated with holding the event,” Pagano indicates. “This event goes a long way to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities living in the
Windsor Essex area.”

In addition to fishing, a picnic is also held, with entertainment provided by Music Express, Canada’s premier show band, a magic show by ATTILA, and the characters from EAParties (Enchanted Adventure)
and D&D Mascots. As well, Italo Labignan, Host of the Canadian SportFishing TV Show, attended.

Prizes were given out to all participants, and contributions from the community are greatly appreciated.

With 200 participants, Pagano was very happy it was: “another successful event with the help of many sponsors and volunteers, along with cooperation from the weather and the fish!”

For more information on the event go online or visit the facbook page.

To reel in more highlights from this special day, check the photo gallery by Mike Chase of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography.

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Mike Chase

A lifelong resident of Windsor Essex, Mike has been an integral part of the community over the years. He has served as a Director for both the Leamington and Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, the local Better Business Bureau as well as the Canadian Council of Better Business Bureaus. Mike has also worked with the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce serving on committees and recently as as judge for the Business Excellence Awards. He has owned and operated a few companies in the past and now enjoys his regular “flights” around the county with his latest business, Windsor Aerial Drone Photography. As a member of the Biz X team since 2023, he utilizes the latest drone technology to offer a unique perspective when it comes to aerial photography and videography for the magazine. Today, Mike and his wife Darlene are residents of the beautiful little town of Amherstburg.