Clarkston’s Golf Course Pond Included in Statewide Trout Derby

CLARKSTON, WA. – Golf Course Pond in Clarkston is among more than 100 lakes across Washington selected for the 2025 Statewide Trout Derby. Anglers who fish at these locations between April 26 and October 31 have the opportunity to catch trout marked with orange tags, which can be redeemed for prizes.

The annual event, now in its 10th year, does not require registration or an entry fee. To participate, anglers simply need to fish at a designated derby lake, catch a trout with an orange tag marked with the letter “J,” and submit a prize claim. Over 100 businesses donate prizes, totaling more than $54,000 in value.

Golf Course Pond is a 5.4-acre water body located just west of Clarkston off the Snake River. The pond is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, some weighing up to two pounds. It offers good shoreline access and permits two-pole fishing. WDFW reports the best catch rates during the spring season, although trout remain catchable year-round.

How the Derby Works:

1. Fish a participating lake from April 26 to October 31 with a valid 2025 fishing license.

2. Catch a tagged trout. Orange tags identify prize-winning fish.

3. Save the tag and submit a prize claim form (available soon on WDFW’s website).

4. Redeem prizes from listed sponsors based on the tag information.

Fishing is free for children under 15, but they must actively participate and handle their own gear. Temporary combination licenses are not valid during the first eight days of the derby.

Trout Derby lakes by county