Five tagged trout worth $10,000 each will be released into Big Bear Lake as the Fishin’ for $50K Annual Trout Derby returns to the iconic mountain getaway in May.
Billed as “the ultimate family fishing event,” additional tagged fish of smaller value, as well a Tournament Champion prize of $2,500, will also be available for lucky anglers to reel in during the two-day tournament on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31, organizers at Visit Big Bear said.
“Now that’s worth fishing for!” the group said in a written statement. “Bring out the whole crew and enjoy two days on Big Bear Lake fishing for $50K.”
Weight class prizes will also be awarded in both adult and child categories, and raffle prizes will include fishing gear, according to Visit Big Bear.
The entry fee will be $103.22 for adults and $44.52 for kids 15 and under, with half-priced tickets available for those who reserve pontoon boats or lodging in the Big Bear Valley, organizers said.
Fishin’ for $50K entry wristbands will also grant participants access to Big Bear Lake’s Reel Ale Festival at Meadow Park on May, March 29.
All participants 16 and older must have valid fishing licenses.
Interested anglers can find more information and register for the event online at hbigbear.com/events/fishing-50k-big-bear. Limited same-day registration will also be offered beginning May 29 at noon.
A recap of last year’s event, including the winners, can be found online at bigbear.com/blog/fishin-for-50k-recap. None of the lucky $10,000 trout were landed during the 2025 contest.
“Bring your best lures, ready your fishing gear, and unleash your inner fishing expertise,” organizers stated.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: 5 fish worth $10K each up for grabs at Big Bear Lake trout derby
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
