January 29, 2020 3:45 a.m.
The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby is under way.
The 28th annual event that benefits fish restoration, enhancement and education projects in the Umpqua Basin continues through Saturday. The event is presented by the Douglas Timber Operators and the Roseburg Area Chamber of Commerce.
Wednesday is Student Day, where about 20 high school students work with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and staff from the Rock Creek Fish Hatchery at the hatchery east of Glide, to learn about spawning steelhead and other hatchery responsibilities.
Thursday is Kid’s Day. Starting at 10:00 a.m. around 75 fifth-grade students from Eastwood Elementary School in Roseburg will head to Cooper Creek Reservoir outside of Sutherlin for a morning of fishing with the derby’s professional fishing guides, and other outdoor boating activities on the lake. Students will receive a life jacket courtesy of North River Boats to take home. The event recognizes students for their outstanding outdoor learning program and their fish-rearing facility on Deer Creek at the school.
Friday the popular catch-and-release derby begins with 40 teams of over 80 anglers in 40 drift boats, enjoying two days fishing on the North, South and Mainstem of the Umpqua River, trying to catch hook the most fish. Organizers said the derby has some of the best fishing guides in southern Oregon to make this fund-raising event a success every year.
Friday night it’s the dinner and auction at the Douglas County Fairgrounds from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. About 650 people are expected to attend. They will bid on items like boats, fishing trips, four-wheelers, day trips and many other items. Tickets are $50 dollars a person. Call 672-0757 to purchase tickets.
The derby has contributed more than $1.6 million towards fish habitat restoration projects in the 27 years the event has taken place. All the funds provided are matching funds, translating into a big investment in the Umpqua Basin Fishery.