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
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CHOPPER
STEELHEAD
DERBY
Smith River
- Chetco
River
February
25-26-27, 2010
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HANK
"Raider"
STEELHEAD
DERBY
Smith River
~ Chetco
River
March
11-12-13, 2010
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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.
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Chetco River, OR.
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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.
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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. |
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