Event Details
- Date: Sunday, June 15, 2025
- Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Registration: Begins at 8:00 AM
- Location: Lake Colby Beach House
All fishing must take place in Lake Colby using participants’ own gear and bait.
Event Overview
The annual Kids Fishing Derby at Lake Colby is a free, family-friendly event held each year on Father’s Day, hosted by the Saranac Lake Fish & Game Club. This long-standing tradition brings together local families for a morning of fishing, fun, and outdoor learning in a welcoming environment.
Designed for youth anglers of all experience levels, the derby encourages responsible fishing, sportsmanship, and time spent outdoors with parents, grandparents, and guardians.
Event Highlights
- Free Kids Fishing Derby with lunch provided
- Held annually on Father’s Day
- Open to youth 15 years old and under
- Multiple age groups and fish categories
- Prizes awarded for first, second, and third place
- Hosted at Lake Colby Beach House
- Tagged salmon prize opportunity
Registration Information
All participants must register before fishing at the Lake Colby Beach House beginning at 8:00 AM on the day of the derby.
Eligibility
- Participants must be under 16 years of age
- An adult must accompany each participant
Age Groups
- 6 & under
- 7–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13–15 years
Prizes & Fish Categories
Prizes will be awarded for the top three heaviest fish in each age group and fish category.
Fish Categories
- Trout
- Salmon
- Perch
- Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass
- Pumpkinseed / Shiners / Rock Bass / Sunfish
Additional Prizes
- A $25 prize will be awarded for catching a tagged salmon
- Tagged salmon are still eligible for additional prizes based on weight
Prize Ceremony
- Awards will be presented at 12:30 PM at the Lake Colby Beach House
Rules & Regulations
- All participants must register before fishing.
- Fishing is permitted only between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
- No fish will be accepted after 12:15 PM.
- All fish will be weighed to determine placement.
- In the event of a tie, the first fish entered will determine the winner.
- All fish must be caught in Lake Colby using personal gear and bait.
- The Derby Judge may disqualify any entry obtained in an unsportsmanlike manner or in violation of derby rules. Judges’ decisions are final.
- Participants must follow all derby rules and all applicable New York State fish and game laws. Environmental Conservation Officers may be present.
Youth Participation
- Fish should be caught and reeled in by the youth participant
- Adults may assist as needed, but fish should not be caught by adults on behalf of youth
- Fair play ensures all participants have an equal opportunity
Important Notes
Fish at Your Own Risk
By entering the derby, all participants agree that no individuals, organizations, or state or federal agencies involved with the event shall be held liable for accidents or injuries incurred while fishing or traveling to or from the derby.
GOOD LUCK!
We look forward to another great day of fishing, family fun, and outdoor learning at Lake Colby.
