Fishing in the Central Valley: An early start helps grow a lifetime passion
Fishing derbies and bass clubs are major factors in introducing young people and their families to the sport
Three youth derbies were held over the Oct. 12 weekend, led by one of the oldest and largest kids' fishing derbies in northern California, the California Striped Bass Association (CSBA) - West Delta Chapter's 'Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs or Gangs' Derby, now in its 33rd year.
"We've been fighting for the conservation of striped bass for over 50 years, but we have always understood the importance of getting youth out on the water to share what we have been privileged to experience," Roger Mammon, chairman of the CSBA Kid's Derby said.
The national participation rate among children ages 6 to 12 has seen a notable increase in the past few years. In 2011, the participation rate was 23%, jumping to 29% percent in 2020. Even as pandemic restrictions began to lift and vaccines became more available, this rate remained higher than pre-pandemic levels at 28% in 2021. For ages 13-17, the participation rate has grown from 18% to 24% in the last decade, adding 1 million participants.
CSBA has been in existence for 50 years, and the West Delta Chapter out of Antioch has been a leader in offering youth opportunities from the start. This year's derby was held on Oct. 12 at Compy's Fishing Pier in downtown Antioch, and the pier was lined with 117 participants accompanied with their mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, and grandparents vying for striped bass. Most often, a family member is essential to bringing a child out to the water.
For the first time in memory, three striped bass over 18 inches were caught during the derby.
But the size of the fish doesn't matter to a young angler whose smile tells it all when the fish is wiggling on their line before being measured and quickly released. The chapter provides bait, weights, hooks, and rods and reels for youngsters needing assistance. There are three divisions including 8-11 years old and 12-15 years old. Each winner goes home with a medal, new rod and reel combination, and tackle box, but the real highlight is when the hundreds of raffle prizes are announced.
The local group Striperz Gone Wild (SGW) held their Fourth Fall Classic Striped Bass Derby at the California Aqueduct on Oct. 12.
SGW provides plaques, rods, reels, and tackle boxes for youth participants along with making sure that every child goes home with a tackle box.
Another local event is the annual Greg Mark's Youth Derby at Shaver Lake scheduled for June 14, 2025. Registration begins online at on May 1, 2025, and it will reach capacity within a few days. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Fishing in the City program provides opportunities throughout the year, and information is available at
