The Bakersfield Firefighters 13th Annual Trout Derby and Pancake Breakfast takes place tomorrow, November 22, 2025. A total of 1,500 pounds of lightning and rainbow trout—up to 5 pounds each—have been stocked across both lakes. Tagged trout are also in each lake, and the angler who catches the lowest-numbered tag will win the $1,000 grand prize. Trophies will be awarded in all age groups, and raffles will run throughout the event. The first load of trout for the derby was stocked Thursday morning, with the second load going in today. The Bakersfield Kids Outdoors nonprofit also stocked trout up to 4 pounds last week from Calaveras Trout Farm, and anglers have been catching fish throughout the main lake using trout jigs, spinners, and Powerbait in a variety of colors. Bass fishing has remained steady, with fish being caught on crankbaits, jerkbaits, jigs, and shad-style plastics on a drop-shot. Bluegill are active at both lakes and biting on wax worms 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.



Our price match guarantee assures each angler the opportunity to get out on the water with the best gear at the lowest price possible. We make it a point to regularly run deals and sales!


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