CLEARLAKE OAKS, Calif. — With the lake level better than they’ve been in many years, organizers of the Clearlake Oaks Catfish Derby said this year’s event will be “back to normal.”
Large crowds are expected for the annual family-oriented fishing derby known near and far as the biggest derby of its kind west of the Mississippi.
“There’s still time to sign up online and receive an early sign-up discount of $10,” said Derby Committee Chair Dennis Locke. “Apply by 11 p.m. on May 18 for the discount.”
Fees are $50 for early registrants; $60 for those registering after the deadline. The entry fee for kids (15 years and under) is $10.
Derby fishing starts at noon on May 19 and ends at noon on May 21 with an awards ceremony where prizes this year total $10,000.
Another $2,500 in prizes and merchandise, including three cash bonuses of $200, $100, and $50 will be awarded.
In the adult category, prizes range from $5,000 for first place to $40 for 20th place.
For children, the derby offers two categories of prizes for 10-year-olds and under and 11– 15-year-olds.
The prizes for both categories range from $100, 1st place to $10, 5th place.
Association President, Alvaro Valencia, encourages everyone to drop by during the derby to say hello to old friends and meet new ones.
“Come by to purchase raffle tickets, t-shirts and on the last day enjoy the awards ceremony with food, drinks and camaraderie,” he said.
Onsite registration and fish weigh-ins will again be at the Northshore Fire District Station in the Oaks at 12655 East Highway 20 in Clearlake Oaks.
Online entries are being accepted at www.clearlakeoaks.org/derby where more information can also be found.
Information is also available on the Derby Facebook Page, Catfish Derby In the Oaks, or by calling Derby headquarters at 707-596-0248.
The annual derby is a fundraiser sponsored annually by the Clearlake Oaks-Glenhaven Business Association.
All proceeds go back into the community, supporting education and sports in our school as well as other community needs.