Bass Lake Fishing Derby

Bass Lake Fishing Derby

May 2 & 3, 2026

Over $55,000 in tagged fish with 3 Grand Prize fish worth a total of $25,000!

The Bass Lake Fishing Derby is a longtime favorite that brings families, friends, and anglers together each May. An annual tradition since 1982, the Derby is open to all ages and experience levels, making it a fun and welcoming event for everyone. With $55,000 worth of tagged rainbow trout swimming in the lake, there’s plenty of excitement with every cast. Whether you’re fishing from shore or boat, hoping to win a prize or just enjoy a great weekend outdoors, the Bass Lake Fishing Derby is all about making memories on the water.

Registration is now open for 2026!

Bass Lake Fishing Derby Frequently Asked Questions

Registration is online only.

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

You must be registered by 9:00 am on Saturday, May 3rd. Registration closes promptly at 9:00 am. The Derby does not sell out.

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.

Absolutely, you will just need to register online before 9:00 am on Saturday.

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.

Lines can be in the water from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm on Saturday & Sunday.

The fish cannot be turned in for a prize and we ask that you throw the fish back into the lake.

Yes.

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.

The winning numbers are drawn and posted at the Derby Headquarters locations on Saturday morning.

Each registered participant may turn in 3 tagged fish on each day of the Derby.

The 3 Grand Prize fish will each be worth $500 until the end of June. No other tags are worth money after Sunday.

Yes, you would’ve had to have been registered for the 2025 Derby and have your confirmation email available to provide if needed.

Yes.

No. The Derby will happen rain, snow or shine.

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

Hats can be picked up beginning April 28th at the 3 Derby Headquarter locations and throughout the Derby.

Most Likely! Early Bird registrations (by April 15th) are guaranteed a hat. The remaining hats will be handed out beginning on Sunday, April 28th and throughout the Derby. The Derby orders plenty of hats so chances are you’ll get your collectible Derby Hat!

We offer a maximum of 4 hats per family/individual registration.

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, Saturday and Sunday only. Madera County offers a waiver during Derby weekend.