5th Annual Veterans Fishing Derby Returns to Lake Cahuilla

Thousands of pounds of stocked trout await veterans and community members at the annual event.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 5th Annual Veterans Fishing Derby is set for this Saturday at Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park in La Quinta. The free event for veterans features over 4,000 pounds of stocked trout, with sizes ranging from one to one-and-a-half pounds and some trophy-sized fish up to six or seven pounds. Non-veterans can participate for a $5 cash tournament fee, with proceeds benefiting local veterans groups.

Why it matters

The annual fishing derby provides an opportunity for veterans and the community to come together outdoors and connect. It also supports local veterans organizations through the tournament fees.

The details

The event is hosted by the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District, the office of Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, and the Desert Recreation District. Local business Yellow Mart is providing roughly half of the 4,000 pounds of stocked trout for the derby.

  • The 5th Annual Veterans Fishing Derby is set for this Saturday, February 28, 2026.
  • Gates open at 5:30 a.m., with the tournament running from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The players

Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District

The organization hosting the annual Veterans Fishing Derby at Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park.

V. Manuel Perez

The Riverside County Supervisor whose office is co-hosting the event.

Desert Recreation District

The organization co-hosting the annual Veterans Fishing Derby.

Yellow Mart

The local business providing roughly half of the 4,000 pounds of stocked trout for the derby.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The annual Veterans Fishing Derby at Lake Cahuilla provides a meaningful way for the community to support local veterans through a day of outdoor recreation and camaraderie.