FISHING DERBIES

Each year, the Chetco River and the Smith River play host to several fishing derbies.
These derbies are sponsored by various groups and Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery

DERBY DATES: 

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31th Annual

Chopper Steelhead Derby

Smith River - Chetco River

February 21-22-23, 2013

click here for last years results

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31th Annual

Hank "Raider" Steelhead Derby

Smith River ~ Chetco River

March 7-8-9, 2013

click here for last years results 

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Years ago, Hank & Chopper Westbrook founded the first Cal-Ore Fishing Derby to raise funds for the enhancement of fisheries and streams within our area so that future generations would be able to enjoy clear rivers, great fishing and beautiful scenery for years to come. 

Smith River, CA.

Chetco River, OR.

The derbies consist of teams made up of four men and two guides. These teams are then divided into a A team & a B team. On Friday, the two man, 1 guide, A team will fish Oregon's Chetco River, while the B team fishes the Smith River. On Saturday, the teams switch to fish the opposite river.

 

The Derbies promote "catch & release" 
Each Derby averages 90% to 95% release.  

 
 WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
Each fishing derby contributes financial support to local fishery projects and the Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery. The fishermen, taking part in each derby, not only have a magnificent time fishing and enjoying the camaraderie, they are supporting the area's fisheries and the environment.
These derbies are the largest source of income for Rowdy Creek Hatchery, a non-profit, private hatchery. Without the financial contributions of the derbies and the donations from private citizens, Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery could not survive. The Hatchery raises salmon and Steelhead which are released into the Smith River.
It is Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery's goal to keep the Smith River stocked with the fish that make it the best salmon and Steelhead River on the West Coast.