29th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fish Derby

The Neal Taylor Nature Center Fish Derby is an annual event that has been taking place at Lake Cachuma in Santa Barbara, CA since the mid 90s. Every year, hundreds of people venture out for weekend of fun, fishing, and festivities.

The event hosts a variety of activities. People of all ages are welcome to participate. Ages 5 and up can participate in the fish weighing contest, and earn cash and fishing gear prizes. There are also several raffles, with prizes that include fishing gear, gift baskets, local restaurant gift certificates, lake cruises, and more.

Other activities include arts & crafts, workshops, bait-making stations, live music at HOOK’d bar & grill, boat rentals, an on-site disc golf course, and several biking and hiking trails surrounding Cachuma Lake.

This event is a fundraiser for The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to encourage public understanding, enjoyment, and protection of Cachuma Lake, the Upper Santa Ynez River, and the San Rafael Mountain Range Watershed.

https://www.troutderby.org

REGISTRATION FEES

$35.00 SPECIAL DISCOUNT – Register Online by February 28, 2026

$40.00 – Online or Postmark by April 4, 2026

$45.00 – Postmark by April 11, 2026

$45.00 – Online by April 16, 2026

$50.00 – On-site Fri. 4/17/ to Sun. 4/19/2026

Ages 4-15 years old always – $15.00

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Host or Publisher The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake