In 1989, a fierce but friendly culinary battle erupted between Selkirk and Emerson to claim the undisputed title of “Catfish Capital of Manitoba.” The high-stakes rivalry culminated in a televised cookoff on CBC’s The Journal, where a blind taste test by local judges ultimate crowned Selkirk’s pan-fried preparation over Emerson’s deep-fried entry, cementing Selkirk’s legendary status on the map.
In 1985, local fisherman Chuck Norquay wrote to Babe Winkelman, host of the American television show Good Fishing, hoping to showcase Selkirk as the “Catfish Capital of North America.” His letter caught Winkelman’s eye, leading to a filming session along the Red River where the crew caught nearly 200 pounds of catfish in a single day—a massive success that launched Norquay’s successful new career as a local fishing guide for eager tourists.
Established in 1884 by the St. Andrews Agricultural Society, the Selkirk Fair and Rodeo stands as one of Manitoba’s oldest agricultural fairs. Evolving over 145 years from a traditional autumn showcase for livestock, baking, and plowing matches into the action-packed “Triple S” semi-pro rodeo and community festival at Selkirk Park, this beloved annual tradition continues to bring together residents from St. Andrews, St. Clements, and Selkirk.
Founded in 1967 to secure equal rights and opportunities for all people, the Selkirk Friendship Centre has served as a vital community pillar for decades. From its modest beginnings in a former plumbing shop to the opening of its dedicated Eveline Street facility in 1975 and the 2.3-million-dollar Tyro Housing project in 1990, the Centre—propelled by its passionate volunteers—continues to deliver essential recreational, cultural, and social programming.