THE 2025 ANNUAL WALLY DERBY

Each year, the Kearney Chamber Colonels gather at Johnson Lake for their legendary two-day fishing showdown: the Annual Colonel’s Wally Derby. This no-frills, all-out competition is more than just a tournament—it’s a time-honored tradition built on camaraderie, competition, and community.

This year, the Colonels did a remarkable job honoring Matt Kampfe—a loyal Colonel, respected friend, and true outdoorsman—through the honorary title of the Matt Kampfe “The Rodfather” Big Mouth Wally Derby.

The action kicked off with a round of golf at Lakeside Country Club, followed by a delicious meal and good laughs at the Nautical Rose. This year's winners in golf were Dale Arp and Cory Prellwitz! Following dinner, Owner Shawn Engberg took everyone over for a sneak peek at a special project opening soon!

Day two is all business—lines hit the water at sunrise on Johnson Lake as teams go head-to-head to haul in the biggest Walleye or the heaviest catch by boat. It’s friendly fire with bragging rights on the line. This year's results were as follows:

Bragging Rights Winner- Steve Linden Team with a whopping 34 pounds 2 ounces.

Biggest Fish Any Species- Ron and Scott Bazata Team with a huge 35-pound carp.

Biggest Walleye- Mick Wise Team.