December 30, 2025 3:05 a.m. 

The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby has its 34th annual event in late January.

Drew Winkelmaier has more: “Drew2” News Radio 93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN

It is held to support restoration, enhancement, and education projects in the Umpqua Basin and will take place January 28th through the 31st.

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians is the Platinum Presenting Sponsor again this year.

Events include:

*Student Day is Wednesday, January 28th. Local high school students will take part in hands-on natural resource education in the Rock Creek watershed, exploring habitat restoration, forestry, fish species, law enforcement, and career pathways.

*Kid’s Day is Thursday, January 29th. 75 fifth-grade students from Eastwood Elementary School will fish with professional guides at Cooper Creek Reservoir and enjoy a jet boat ride. Students then receive a life jacket from North River Boats and a fishing pole from Rogue Credit Union.

*The Catch-and-Release Derby January 30th and 31st will feature 40 teams and 42 guides fishing the North, South and mainstem Umpqua River in the tournament which showcases local guides and sponsors.

*The Derby Dinner and Auction is Friday night January 30th beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. Auction items will include a Willie Boat, guided trips, firearms, four-wheeler, African safari, Diamond Lake family package, golf packages and more. There will be a raffle, and silent auctions with dozens of items to bid on. Tickets for the evening are $75. Purchase them by calling Tina Roy at 672-0757 or online at: https://ufed.ejoinme.org/2026

Since its founding, the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby has contributed $2.1 million to local fishery enhancement, watershed restoration and education projects.

Find out more about the events at: https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaDerby/