Fishing Tournaments

April 4, 2024

Question: A friend was telling me about fishing tournaments in California. How can I get involved?

Answer: Hundreds of fishing tournaments and contests are scheduled in California for the rest of 2024. You can search the type of contest, location, date and sponsor name at https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FishingContests/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Please make sure to be in touch with the sponsor organization to register, since CDFW does not host these events.

Most of the contests target black bs, but some involve other species such as trout, kokanee and striped bass. Contests take place all year, but most occur in the spring, summer and fall. Diamond Valley Lake (Riverside County), Clear Lake (Lake County) and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta are among the most popular locations for anglers to compete against each other. Fishing is mostly from motorized boats, but there is a growing popularity for the shore-based and kayak contests.

“Many people enjoy fishing for the chance to be alone in nature. It’s their time away from the busy parts of our lives,” said Senior Environmental Scientist Supervisor Flower Moye. “Fishing contests can give people that same feeling, but also provide a space for camaraderie and healthy competition. They offer folks another way to enjoy the sport. In fact, some people get into fishing because of the tournament scene.”

Since 1975, CDFW has required tournament organizers to have permits for their events. The regulation enables the department to ensure responsible use of resources. CDFW does not make money from the contests. Usual fishing regulations apply meaning winners are determined not by the number of fish caught, but by the weight or length.

A full explanation of CDFW contests, tournaments and derbies is available at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Inland/Contests?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

“ Most of the contests target black bs…”

You could not pay me to take part in a tournament that targets black BS…

“ Most of the contests target black bs…”

You could not pay me to take part in a tournament that targets black BS…

 

For saltwater, no permits are required.

Last I knew.