For thousands of local children over the past three decades, one of the best memories of summer has begun with a fishing pole in hand and the excitement of seeing what might be waiting beneath the waves.
That tradition continues on Saturday, August 22, 2026, as the Rotary Club of Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach hosts the 34th Annual Rotary Kids Fishing Derby on the historic Seal Beach Pier.
Open to all children ages 15 and under, the derby is completely free and welcomes everyone—from first-time anglers who have never touched a fishing rod to seasoned young fishermen eager to land this year’s biggest catch.
Registration begins at 7:00 a.m., with fishing getting underway shortly afterward.
“This is one of those special community events that families remember for years,” said Rotary organizers. “Many of today’s parents fished in the derby when they were children. Now they’re introducing their own kids to the excitement of catching their first fish.”One of the best parts? Families don’t need to own any equipment to participate.
Thanks to the generous partnership of the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, children who need them will receive free fishing rods and tackle, while Rotary volunteers will keep the bait buckets full throughout the morning.
Before the first line is cast, participants and their families can enjoy a complimentary pancake and sausage breakfast, generously prepared and served by the Seal Beach Lions Club—another longtime tradition that helps make the morning feel like a community celebration.
Throughout the event, young anglers will compete for age-group trophies recognizing the largest fish caught, while every registered participant will have the opportunity to win exciting raffle prizes donated by local businesses, community organizations, and fishing enthusiasts.
Last year’s event welcomed more than 300 children, creating another unforgettable morning filled with first catches, proud parents, cheering volunteers, and plenty of stories that grew just a little bigger by the time everyone headed home.
The Rotary Kids Fishing Derby has become much more than a fishing tournament. It’s an opportunity for children to spend time outdoors, learn patience, discover a lifelong hobby, and experience firsthand what happens when neighbors come together to create something special.
For the members of the Rotary Club of Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach, that’s exactly what the event is all about.
“Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self,” organizers said. “This derby is one of the ways we put that into action—bringing together volunteers, community partners, and local families for a morning that’s simply about giving kids a great experience.”
Whether a child catches the biggest fish of the day or simply enjoys making memories with family and friends, everyone leaves with something valuable: a reminder that community traditions still matter.
Event Information
34th Annual Rotary Kids Fishing Derby
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Location: Seal Beach Pier
Registration: Begins at 7 a.m.
Eligibility: Children ages 15 and under
Cost: Free
The event includes:
- Complimentary pancake and sausage breakfast
- Free fishing poles and tackle (while supplies last)
- Fresh bait provided throughout the morning
- Age-group trophies for the largest catches
- Prize raffle for registered participants
- A fun morning for the entire family
Families are encouraged to arrive early, bring sunscreen, and prepare for a memorable day on one of Southern California’s most iconic piers.
About Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach Rotary Club
The Los Alamitos, Cypress & Seal Beach Rotary Club brings together local business and community leaders who believe that strong communities are built by people willing to roll up their sleeves and serve. The Club is part of Rotary District 5320 and Rotary International’s worldwide network of approximately 1.4 million members.
Community members interested in learning more about Rotary, attending a meeting, or getting involved in local service are welcome to connect with the Club through their website:LACSBRotary.org.