The Bakersfield Firefighters trout derby was held last Saturday, and the trout bite was excellent. Both lakes were stocked with 1600 pounds of lightening and rainbow trout. The biggest trout weighed during the event was 5.8 pounds, and there were countless 3 to 4 pound trout caught. Many anglers had limits with trophy fish in the mix. The two $1000 fish were caught including 24 of the 25 tagged prize fish that were planted. Anglers have been scoring trout all week here using Powerbait, mousetails, spinners and jigs. The next trout derby here is happening February 8, 2025, hosted by the Bakersfield Kids Outdoors. The BKO Trout derby will be very similar to the firefighter derby. Both lakes will be stocked with tagged fish up to $1000 with trophy lightening and Rainbow trout. The event coordinator that founded the Bakersfield firefighter derby is orchestrating the Bakersfield Kids Outdoors trout derby. Bass have been coming on crankbaits, jerkbaits, jigs and shad imitation plastics on drop shot. Bluegill have been showing at both lakes with wax and red worms.

Contact Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop at 661-679-6351 or check us out online at Tackle and Rod.com

Cope's Tackle and Rod Shop has the largest selection of fishing tackle in the Central Valley. We carry all the equipment from top manufactures to make your fishing trip more successful! Whether your fishing for Bluegill at a local pond or Bluefin Tuna far offshore we are your one stop shop for all your fishing needs.



Our mantra here at Cope’s is “for fishermen, by fishermen.” All our staff truly enjoy the sport and spend a lot of time helping make sure you are enjoying your time on the water. We can guarantee satisfaction when you enter our store - from tips and tricks to providing you with all the gear you will need to keep you on the water and in the game!



It is not only our goal to provide you with the right gear, we also strive to keep you informed of local events, trips, shows, and fishing opportunities.



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