The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby was pre-empted by the weather, but the auction on Friday night was as lively as a fish on the line.

Upwards of 500 gathered at the Douglas County Fairgrounds to eat dinner, swap stories and support the 16th annual Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Auction.

Some big items were donated to be auctioned off, like an aluminum fishing boat from North River.

Derby Chairman and organizer, Ray Jones enjoyed the participation he sees.

“Well, we had a really good turnout tonight, even though we couldn’t fish, it hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm for this event. We probably have 500 plus people here tonight. The auction’s just getting ready to start and I’m sure we’ll raise at least as much money as we did last year.”

The oral auction followed four silent auctions and the hope is to raise about 80 thousand dollars.

Posted: 02|4|08 at 10:20 am. Filed under: Auction News.