Big Bear Lake Fishing for $50K Trout Tournament

With 5 tagged trout worth $10K each, you could win up to $50K! Plus, a Tournament Champion will win $2,500!

Fishin’ For $50K is the family event of the season. Bring out the whole crew and enjoy two days on Big Bear Lake fishing for $50K. Five out of 30 tagged trout are Grand Prize Winners worth $10K each. Now that’s worth fishing for!

Weight class prizes are given to both adult and child age groups and raffle prizes include adult and child fishing equipment. It’s just another reason to invite the whole gang to enjoy this event weekend.

Free Pontoon Rentals & Discounts in Big Bear

Red and white pontoon boat with people enjoying a relaxing outing at Big Bear Lake, surrounded by scenic forested hills.

Destination Big Bear guests can enjoy exclusive boating perks at Holloway’s Marina, including:

20% off pontoon rentals (excluding Saturdays and holidays)
Free 1-hour pontoon ride for lakefront guest who book directly on our website (limited availability).

These limited-time perks are available when you book directly with Destination Big Bear and are designed to enhance your Big Bear Lake experience.

Find a Cabin Rental Near the Lake

Why Anglers and Families Love This Tournament Weekend

The tournament Fishin’ for $50K combines intense competition with a family-friendly atmosphere at Big Bear Lake. The tournament offers cash prizes for tagged trout and weight class awards plus thrilling raffle giveaways, which maintain all weekend engagement for anglers. The event at the lake provides a high-energy experience which unites families with fishing enthusiasts.

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Event schedule

The Fishin’ for $50K Trout Tournament spans two action-packed days of fishing, fun, and prize opportunities. Whether you’re pre-registering online or signing up in person, here’s everything you need to know to plan your weekend on the lake:

Weekend Timeline

Online pre-registration ends at on Thursday, May 28th, 2026 or when entries are sold out.
In-person registration: Friday, May 29th, 2026 from 12 PM – 10 PM while supplies last. Located at Big Bear Visitor Center – 40824 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA, 92315.
Pre-registered check-in: Friday, May 29th, 2026 from 12 PM – 10 PM AND Saturday, May 30th from 5 AM-9AM. Saturday is Check-in Only!
Official tournament fishing times: Saturday & Sunday, May 30th – 31st, 2026 from 6 AM to 2 PM.
Weigh station open 7 AM – 2:30 PM on both competition days. Located at Pine Knot Marina at 439 Pine Knot Ave
Awards: Sunday, May 31st, 2026 at 3:00 PM Located at Marina Riviera 40770 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Entry Fees and Discounts

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or bringing the kids for their first tournament experience, Fishin’ for $50K offers affordable entry options — plus some great discounts!

Entries Fees

Adult entry fee $95 (16+), kids $40 (15-)
Entries are limited to 1000 registered anglers.
An event t-shirt, and 1 raffle ticket for the general raffle.
FF50K Hat add-on ($20) will be available for purchase at registration (online & in-person) and Awards Ceremony while supplies last.

Additional Discounts

First Responders & Active/Retired Military: $20 Off individual entries
Locals & Second Homeowners: $10 off individual entries
Family discount: 50% off 1 child entry with adult entry paid at full price.

Tournament Raffle & Prizes

This year’s Fishin’ for $50K Trout Tournament is stacked with high-stakes prizes, epic giveaways, and raffle rewards that every angler will want a shot at. From big cash wins to high-quality gear, this tournament is your chance to score big—on and off the water!

Grand Tournament Champion

The angler to present the Largest Fish (by weight) will walk away with $2,500 cash prize.

Grand Prize Tagged Trout

Tagged fish with winning numbers earn $10,000 cash!

Non-Grand Prize Tagged Trout

First five non-grand prize tagged fish earn $500 each

Weight Class Awards

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three anglers in both adult (16+) and child (15 & under) categories, separated by gender. Winners are chosen based on the heaviest fish caught—so every catch counts!

Adults (Ages 16+)

Anglers aged 16 and over will compete in separate male and female categories. The top three in each division will take home cash prizes based on the heaviest fish caught.

Prizes:

1st Place – $1,500
2nd Place – $750
3rd Place – $500

Whether you’re a weekend fisherman or a seasoned pro, every cast could be your chance to win!

Children (Ages 15 & Under)

Kids also get their own spotlight with male and female divisions. This is a great way to get young anglers involved and excited about fishing.

Prizes:

1st Place – $500
2nd Place – $250
3rd Place – $100

Encourage the kids to give it their best shot—because even little fishers can catch big rewards!

Tournament Rules and Regulations

All participants must follow the official tournament guidelines to ensure a fair and fun competition for everyone. Rules cover eligibility, fishing times, weigh-in procedures, tagged trout validation, and more.

Click here for More Informaiton and Rules

Fishin’ for $50K – Big Bear Lake FAQs

1. Is this tournament family friendly?

Answer: Yes. The event includes adult and child divisions which provide raffle prizes and create a family-friendly environment.

2. Are there cash prizes for tagged trout?

Answer: Yes. The organization offers ten thousand dollars for tagged trout which display winning numbers and two additional tagged trout which provide cash awards.

3. Where does the awards ceremony take place?

Answer: Yes. The awards ceremony is held at Marina Riviera in Big Bear Lake

Fishing for 50K Trout Derby:

Big Bear Lake’s most exciting fishing event returns with a chance to catch tagged trout worth up to $50,000 in prizes. Anglers of all ages cast their lines for big rewards and lakeside fun in this beloved annual derby.

Organizer: Visit Big Bear
Venue: Marina Riviera
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Address: 40770 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Dates: May 30, 2026 – May 31, 2026
Time: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tickets: Click here to book your tickets
More Info: Click here

Find a Big Bear Lake Cabin Rental for Fishing for 50K

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