Rancho Seco Recreational Area hosts fishing derby
A lake full of trout is up for grabs at SMUD’s semi-annual Trout Derby at Rancho Seco Lake. Folks reeling in the heaviest trout will be awarded cash prizes -- up to $100 for adults and $50 for children under sixteen.
SMUD has been attracting thousands of local anglers since 1993. The last derby drew over 1,000 participants.
Date: Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15
Time: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (rain or shine)
Location: Rancho Seco Recreational Area, 14440 Twin Cities Road
A pancake breakfast will be available to derby participants beginning at 6:00 a.m. both mornings.
The Rancho Seco Recreation Area has a 160-acre lake that will get stocked with 1,000 pounds of trout and 500 pounds of trophy trout. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line from the shore, fishing pier, or their own boat (electric trolling motors only -- no gas motors). In addition to trout, the lake has largemouth bass, redear sunfish, bluegill, black crappie and catfish.
A one-time $3 entry fee will be charged to anyone interested in competing in the derby. All entrants ages 16 and older must possess a valid California state fishing license.
Cash prizes will be awarded to those catching the heaviest fish in two separate categories – adult and kids. In the adult class, prizes range from $20 to $100 and will be awarded to the top 14 fishers. Prizes for children will be awarded for first ($50) through sixth place ($10).
The 400-acre Rancho Seco Recreational Area offers more than just fishing. The full-service facility offers picnicking facilities, RV and tent camping sites, kayak and pedal boat rentals during the summer, and beach and swimming areas.
Rancho Seco Recreational Area is 25 miles south of Sacramento, approximately 15 minutes east of Highway 99 on Twin Cities Road. The park is owned and operated by SMUD. Admission to the park is $5 per vehicle ($4 for seniors). For more information or to schedule camping reservations, call (916) 732-4913 or go to smud.org.