Please note: The former dates of this event were May 7th & 8th.
BASS LAKE — Get out your fishing poles, everyone! It’s that time of year again! The 42nd Annual Fishing Derby will provide heaps of fun for the entire family, and hopefully a few lucky anglers will catch all (or at least one) of the special grand prize fish. We’ll see you there!
Image by Lorri Lang.
Dates & Times: Saturday, April 29th & Sunday, April 30th, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Over $55,000 in total cash prizes!
- Two $10,000 prizes!
- One $5,000 prize!
- 150 $100 prizes!
- 847 $20 prizes!
Registration now open!
Adults: $25.00
Children 16 & under: $15.00 (Children must be immediate family)
For rules and information, please visit the Bass Lake Chamber of Commerce.
For additional information, please contact Miller’s Landing Resort at 559-642-3633.
Bass Lake Fishing Derby Frequently Asked Questions
Image by Denny Franzkowiak.
How do I register for the Derby and how much does it cost to register?
You can register on our website: www.basslakechamber.com.
Do I have to be signed up by a certain date and does the Derby sell out?
You must be registered by 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 29th. Registration closes promptly at 9 a.m. The Derby does not sell out.
Do I have to sign up online?
Yes, you must register online for 2023. Please e-mail or call if you need assistance.
Do I have to check in and get a wristband?
The Derby is not giving out wristbands and you will not have to check-in. Your registration e-mail confirmation will serve as your check-in so please either print the email or have it available to view on your electronic device. You may be required to show that e-mail when turning in a tagged fish.
I have to work on Saturday, can I just fish on Sunday?
Absolutely, you will just need to register online before 9 a.m. on Saturday.
Where do I turn in tagged fish and do they have to be alive?
Tagged fish can be turned in at one of the three Derby Headquarter locations: Miller’s Landing, The Forks Resort, and The Pines Market. Registrants are required to turn in live tagged fish as soon as possible.
When can I start fishing on Saturday morning?
Lines can be in the water from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday.
What type of bait can I use and do I have to have a license?
Yes, anyone 16 or over must have a valid California Fishing License. Fish must be caught alive using a standard hook and line. Guidelines of the California Fishing Regulations must be followed. Netting, chumming, shocking, live minnows or explosives are not allowed.
California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations (PDF)
What happens if I catch a fish before the Derby starts or outside of Derby hours?
The fish cannot be turned in for a prize and we ask that you throw the fish back into the lake.
Image by Denny Franzkowiak.
Can I fish from shore?
Yes.
How do I know how much my tagged fish is worth?
The winning numbers are drawn and posted at the Derby Headquarters locations on Saturday morning.
How many tagged fish can I turn in per day?
Each registered participant may turn in three tagged fish on each day of the Derby.
Are the tagged fish worth any money after the Derby is over?
The three Grand Prize fish will each be worth $500 until June 30, 2023. No other tags are worth money after April 30, 2023.
If I catch one of the three grand prize fish after the derby did I have to be registered to collect the $500?
Yes, you would’ve had to have been registered for the 2023 Derby and have your confirmation e-mail available to provide if needed.
Can I fish at Bass Lake that weekend if I’m not registered for the Derby?
Yes.
Will the derby be cancelled if it rains?
No. The Derby will happen rain, snow or shine.
If plans change and I can’t make it to the Derby can I get a refund?
No refunds will be issued after April 15th.
If I do Early Bird registration when can I pick up my hat?
Hats can be picked up beginning April 23rd at the three Derby Headquarter locations. Hats must be picked up no later than April 30th at 7 p.m.
If I did not register in time for Early Bird can I still get a hat?
No. Early Bird registrations (by April 15th) were guaranteed a hat. The remaining hats were handed out on Sunday, April 23.
If I register my eight children with my individual registration will I get eight extra hats for the kids?
There is a maximum of four hats per family/individual registration.
Where can I launch my boat and do I need a Bass Lake registration sticker for my boat?
There are two launches on the lake. The public launch (FREE) is located on the south shore by the dam and The Pines Marina ($20 FEE IN & $20 OUT) is located on the north shore. Boat stickers are not required on Derby weekend April 29th & 30th. Madera County offers a waiver during Derby weekend.
If you have any further questions please feel free to contact the Chamber by e-mail or by phone at 559-642-3633.
Image by Alain Audet.
Check out this video on how to get started bass fishing!
