BLM Fishing Derby brings Americans Outside for recreation and stewardship in Imperial Valley, California

In a region best known for its off-highway vehicle adventures, the BLM California's El Centro Field Office hooked a different type of recreator for its second annual Fishing Derby Cast and Clean-up event. More than 100 members of the local community gathered for the event on Saturday, Sept. 26, bringing together recreation, community engagement, and public-land stewardship on BLM-managed public lands in Imperial County, California.

The fishing derby took place at the Hot Springs Long-Term Visitor Area and on BLM-managed lands adjacent to the Highline and All-American canals. For many attendees, it was their first fishing opportunity, and several first-time anglers caught their first fish. As they fished, participants also collected trash from the surrounding public lands, demonstrating their commitment to responsible recreation and care for the areas they enjoy. 

The event was the brainchild of BLM Park Ranger Damian Montaño, an Imperial Valley native who recognized an opportunity to engage Imperial County’s passionate fishing community and create an experience for families to build lasting connections to public lands and outdoor recreation.  

“I've fished in this area my whole life, so I know how important it is to our community,” said Montaño. “We have a strong fishing culture, with people who care deeply about our resources and teaching the next generation to respect the land.”

Partners, including the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Hispanic Access Foundation, Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe, and Imperial Irrigation District, helped make the event possible and strengthened the event’s connection to community, outdoor recreation, and stewardship.  

CDFW staff member Jose Muños highlighted the community's need for a recreation event centered on fishing, stating, “The Imperial Valley deserves an annual fishing event.”

The event featured adult and youth fishing divisions, with first-, second- and third-place awards recognizing participants in the bass and catfish categories. Nine major prizes were awarded to winners, including a first-time angler who placed third in the youth catfish division. The event introduced new anglers to fishing, creating opportunities for youth in support of All Americans Outside, a nationwide BLM initiative to help more Americans, regardless of ability, enjoy their public lands.

Local fishing organizations were key to the event’s success, helping boost participation and deepen community involvement. The BLM recognizes the contributions of the Imperial Valley Desert Fishing Club, Imperial Valley Heavy Action Anglers, Radfin Outdoors and Imperial Valley Bass Addicts, for their support of the event and dedication to the local fishing community.

Some of the strongest connections to public lands start with a first fish. The success of the second annual Fishing Derby Cast and Clean-up shows how powerful those moments can be, laying the groundwork for continued collaboration between the BLM, local anglers, and community partners to expand opportunities for recreation and stewardship and help future generations land their first catch.