An annual fishing derby taking place next month at Big Bear Lake could net some lucky fishermen thousands in cash.
The annual Fishin’ for $50K Trout Derby will take place on the weekend of June 7, and anglers will have the chance to reel in thousands of dollars thanks to Visit Big Bear.
Five trout swimming in Big Bear Lake have been tagged and marked as $10,000 grand prize winners. During the derby, any angler who reels one in will receive the prize money.
Dozens more fish are tagged with lower prize payouts, and additional prizes will be given out to the anglers who reel in the largest trout.
It’s the 27th time the trout derby has been held at Big Bear Lake; last year, two rainbow trout with $10,000 tags were brought in by two lucker fishermen.
Visit Big Bear CEO Travis Scott called the event a great opportunity to “win big bucks.”
“Our hope is that all five of the tagged trout are caught this year,” said Scott. “All you need is fishing gear and bait, lots of patience, and of course a little luck.”
The annual event attracts 700 anglers each year, organizers said, and this year’s was expected to sell out. Tickets start at $80 for adults, and $30 for kids with select discounts for various promotions, including a large discount for those who booked a nearby overnight stay.
An awards ceremony will ultimately take place on Sunday, June 8, at Marina Riviera hotel on Big Bear Lake. The event will also feature a raffle with thousands of dollars worth of fishing supplies up for grabs.
For additional information, including registration and discounts, click here.
Big Bear Lake is among a handful of U.S. lakes up for consideration in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards for the best lake in the country. In 2024, it was named the 6th-best in the U.S., and the 7th-best lake for watersports.
The latest round of voting for this year’s awards ends June 2, officials said.