07 / 14 — Events
Golden Lake fishing derby
First cast
to trophy fish
The derby opens with a morning casting clinic on the lawn — knot tying, safe casting and catch-and-release care — then moves to the dock for the all-ages contest. Poles, bait and buckets are provided; bring patience.
Trophies go to biggest fish, smallest fish and best fishing face, with a separate junior division so little anglers compete fairly. Last year's winner: a 14-inch rainbow, caught by a six-year-old.
How the morning runs
- Casting clinic on the lawn: knots, casting targets and fish care.
- Contest begins off the dock — juniors on the near dock, seniors on the far.
- Weigh-in at the bait table with the official camp scale.
- Trophy ceremony and the group photo with the record board.
Good to know
Do we need our own gear or license? +
Neither. We provide poles, bait and tackle, and the derby runs under the camp's group permit. Bring your own lucky hat if you like.
Is it catch-and-release? +
Yes — every fish is weighed, photographed and released. The clinic teaches gentle handling so the lake stays full for next year.
Can grandparents fish too? +
Absolutely — there's a family division alongside junior and senior divisions, and the best-fishing-face trophy is anyone's game.