Annual Surf Perch Derby returns to Carpinteria

Annual Surf Perch Derby returns to Carpinteria © The Sportfishing Conservancy

After a recent absence, historic, month-long fishing contest comes back to Danny's Deli in Carpinteria and will help support coastal creek restoration.

With the weather and ocean warming up, April is prime time to wet your feet and a line in the surf while competing for prizes and honors in the Danny's Deli Surf Perch Tournament. For many years this annual event brought anglers together testing south coast beaches for fish and adventure. Now, after its recent hiatus, Danny's Perch Tournament is back bigger than ever. Local anglers will be hitting the surf for prizes and glory and in a new twist, they can help South Coast Habitat Restoration efforts with coastal streams devastated in recent storms.

The Derby: For a $10 entry fee anglers compete to land the largest barred surf perch caught on the coast during April. Danny's Deli at 4890 Carpinteria Avenue is headquarters and weigh in station. In the Derby, all California and local fishing regulations must be followed for Derby rules and entry forms stop by Danny's (and maybe pick up one of their famous tri-tip sandwiches, they're awesome!).

At the final weigh in and awards ceremony, also plan on entering the kayak raffle. All proceeds from this raffle are going to South Coast Habitat Restoration for their essential efforts on local creek beds and fish passages which were devastated in recent storms. Sign up by April 1 for the entire competition, or any time during the Derby (there is a 72 hour hold on weigh ins with late registration). For Derby information, along with the latest scuttlebutt on how and where fish are biting check in with Danny.