November 7, 2024 10:20 a.m.
The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby and the Douglas Timber Operators have announced that the 33rd annual event is set for January 29th through February 1st, 2025.
A release said the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians will be the presenting sponsor.
Derby events include:
*Wednesday, January 29th is Student Day. Local high school students spend a day in the Rock Creek watershed learning about stream habitat and restoration projects, fish species and life histories, forestry and forest management, law enforcement and career opportunities in natural resources.
*Thursday, January 30th is Kids Day. 80 fifth grade students from Eastwood Elementary School head to Cooper Creek Reservoir for a morning of fishing with the derby’s professional fishing guides, followed by an exciting boat ride on the lake. Students are presented with a life jacket donated by North River Boats to take home. The event recognizes the students for their outstanding outdoor learning program and their fish-rearing facility on Deer Creek at Eastwood Elementary that enhances fishery in the Umpqua basin.
*Friday and Saturday, January 31st and February 1st is the popular catch-and-release steelhead derby. 40 teams with 80 anglers and 42 guides are in drift boats, enjoying two days fishing the North, South, and mainstem Umpqua River, trying to hook the most fish. The derby showcases many outstanding professional fishing guides and numerous community sponsors that help make the event a success every year.
*Friday evening, January 31st the derbv dinner and auction begins at 5:00 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. It draws about 700 people every year. Auction items include: a Willie Boat, guided fishing trips, four-wheeler, guns, African safari hunt, a Diamond Lake family package, day trips, golf, and many other items. All funds raised during the dinner and auction go towards projects benefiting the Umpqua Basin. Tickets can be purchased for $75 per person. Call the DTO office at 672-0757 to sign up or register online at: https://ufed.ejoinmen.org/2025
The derby has contributed $2 million towards fishery enhancement, watershed restoration, and education projects in the 32 years of the event. All money raised stays in Douglas County and provides matching funds for several projects annually, translating into an important investment that benefits those enjoying the valuable natural resources in the county.