January 3, 2021 3:45 a.m.

The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby is set for February with events that benefit fish restoration, enhancement and education projects in the Umpqua Basin.

It will take place February 2nd through the 5th, sponsored by Douglas Timber Operators and the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Committee.

Activities include:

*Wednesday February 2nd is Student Day, when local high school students spend a day in the Rock Creek watershed learning about stream habitat and restoration projects, and much more

*Thursday February 3rd is Kid’s Day. 65 fifth-grade students from Eastwood Elementary in Roseburg head to Cooper Creek Reservoir for a morning of fishing with the derby’s professional fishing guides, followed by a jet boat ride on the lake. Students are presented with a life jacket donated by North River Boats to take home.

*Friday morning February 4th, the catch-and-release steelhead derby gets underway. Approximately 40 teams of over 80 anglers and 40 guides in drift boats spend two days on the North, South and Mainstem of the Umpqua River.

*Friday night February 4th, it’s the derby’s dinner and auction at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person.

The derby has contributed more than $1.8 million towards fishery enhancement, watershed restoration and outdoor education projects over the years. All the money raised, stays in Douglas County.

Call 672-0757 for more information on the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby.