Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Get ready to cast your line in the 2024 Trout Derby. This annual statewide event, taking place at lakes across Washington, brings unforgettable adventure for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Catch a tagged rainbow trout and win a prize!
Open to anyone with a valid 2024 fishing license!* No entrance fee or registration required. Just catch a tagged trout anytime between April 27 and Oct. 31 and you win!
*Temporary licenses are not valid for game fish species April 27 - May 5, 2024; except for active-duty military personnel serving in any branch of the United States armed forces.
How it works:
1. FISH A PARTICIPATING LAKE
Check the list of all 2024 trout Derby lakes to find one near you.
2. CATCH TAGGED TROUT
Winning derby trout will have a yellow tag attached near their fin. Keep the tag! You will need it to claim your prize.
3. FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW (Coming soon)
Enter the tag number listed on the side of the derby tag, the lake you caught it in, the date it was caught, and your contact information.
4. WIN BIG
Take your tag to the business location you were provided and claim your derby prize!
5. SHARE YOUR SUCCESS!
Take a photo of yourself and your winning derby trout to share on social media. #watroutderby
Sponsors
Important information
The fine print …
There is no entrance fee or extra cost to participate in the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) statewide Trout Derby. Anyone with a valid resident or non-resident 2024 Get Outdoors package, annual freshwater, annual Fish WA, annual combination, or temporary combination license may participate. Anglers must follow all rules, regulations, and daily limits as outlined in the current fishing regulations pamphlet and emergency rule changes set by WDFW. One- to three-day temporary combination licenses are NOT valid for game fish for the 8-day period beginning the fourth Saturday in April unless you are active duty resident military personnel.
The law does not require children 14 years of age or under to obtain a fishing license. However, they must actively participate and be able to demonstrate the ability to handle the gear by themselves. They must also follow the same rules, regulations, and daily limits as adults. Adults may provide assistance but are not required to hold a license if they will not be fishing/harvesting themselves, and children must be present and take part in the entire process.
WDFW employees and their immediate family member(s) are prohibited from participating in the statewide Trout Derby. However, WDFW employees and immediate family member(s) may fish on their personal time in stocked lakes that contain prize fish. WDFW employees and their immediate family member(s) are NOT eligible to claim any derby prize(s).
More details to come.