Mark Merchberger holds the 14.4-pound salmon he caught to win the Slammin' Salmon Derby in Hessel Saturday, August 29. Mr. Merchberger also caught the largest steelhead trout at 15.6 pounds. (Photograph courtesy of Pat Carr) Mark Merchberger of Cedarville took the top prize Saturday, August 29, at the Slammin' Salmon Derby in Hessel with a 14.4- pound salmon that won him $1,000. Mr. Merchberger also caught the largest steelhead trout, weighing in at 15.6 pounds, winning him an additional $250. His boat, Reel Wild, also caught the five largest fish, based on total weight, winning his crew an additional $500.

Ruby Ann skipper Gary Koben of Hessel netted the second largest salmon at 14.02 pounds, winning him $500, and Wet Spot skipper Terry Miller of Lansing took third with a 12.7-pound salmon, winning $300.

Tom Frontjes of Grand Haven caught the only lake trout of the day, weighing 3.9 pounds, winning him $500. Bob Schmid of Tempest caught the mystery weight salmon, winning $150.

More than $3,000 in prize money was awarded during the tournament. Derby organizer Pat Carr said 26 boats entered into the competition during windy and rainy weather.