The Fishing Derby is held at Lake Estes which is stocked with trout, mostly rainbows, from the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) prior to the event that coincides with the CDOW's free fishing weekend the first full weekend in June. This will be the 24th annual outing for the Estes Park event.
Between 250 and 300 people attend the Estes Park event each year to compete for prizes in age categories. Prizes for the "largest fish" catch in four age groups - for one male and one female - will be awarded. Age categories are 9 and under; 10-15 years; 16-59, and 60 and over.
The Derby begins at 8 a.m. and ends at noon. Derby day registration begins at 6:30 a.m. at the Lake Estes Marina Store on the northeast side of the lake 1770 Big Thompson Avenue (U.S. Hwy. 34). Registration on the day of the event is $4. In addition, the $5 day-use fee for vehicles at Lake Estes is waived on Derby Day.
June 6 and 7 are "free fishing" days in the State of Colorado. Fishing licenses are not required by the state on those two days.
