The Bass Lake Fishing Derby has been an annual tradition at the lake since 1982! This event is open to all ages and fishing abilities making it a perfect event for the whole family. There are $55,000 worth of tagged rainbow trout up for grabs. Register today!

Bass Lake Fishing Derby Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I register for the Derby and how much does it cost to register?
Registration is online only.

Entry fees:
Adult $35.00 each
Children under 16 $15.00 each
*Children must be immediate family.

Do I have to be signed up by a certain date and does the Derby sell out?
You must be registered by 9:00 am on Saturday, May 2nd. Registration closes promptly at 9:00 am. The Derby does not sell out.

Do I have to sign up online?
Yes, you must register online for 2026. Please email or call us if you need assistance. We are happy to help.

Do I have to check in and get a wristband?
We are not giving out wristbands, and you will not have to check-in. Your registration email 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 email 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 9:00 am 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 3 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 7:00 am - 8:00 pm on Saturday & Sunday.

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.

Can I fish from shore?
Yes.

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.

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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 3 tagged fish on each day of the Derby.

Are the tagged fish worth any money after the Derby is over?
The 3 Grand Prize fish will each be worth $500 until June 30, 2026. No other tags are worth money after May 3, 2026.

If I catch one of the 3 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 2026 Derby and have your confirmation email 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?
Yes, as long as you contact us by email before April 15th. No refunds will be issued after April 15th. Our email address is chamber@basslakechamber.com

If I do Early Bird registration when can I pick up my hat?
Hats can be picked up beginning April 26th at the 3 Derby Headquarter locations and throughout the Derby.

If I did not register in time for Early Bird can I still get a hat?
Most Likely! Early Bird registrations (by April 15th) are guaranteed a hat. The remaining hats will be handed out beginning on Sunday, April 26th and throughout the Derby. The Derby orders plenty of hats so chances are you’ll get your collectible Derby Hat!

If I register my 8 children with my individual registration will I get 8 extra hats for the kids?
We offer a maximum of 4 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 FREE public boat launch 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, Saturday and Sunday only. Madera County offers a waiver during Derby weekend.

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact us by email:
chamber@basslakechamber.com or by phone: Miller's (559) 642-3633

Contact the host of 2026 Bass Lake Fishing Derby

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