To be eligible to win, participants must purchase a derby ticket prior to fishing. One ticket is good for the entire length of the contest. Most derbies run for 2 to 3 weeks with prizes are awarded for the top 4 to 6 fish, based on weight caught during the derby. Many derbies also include prizes for anglers who catch specially tagged fish which are released prior to the start of the derby. Lake Del Valle in Livermore, Lake Chabot in Castro Valley and Shadow Cliffs Reservoir in Pleasanton.
Beginners can sign up by dropping by the marina and filling out a loaner agreement.
Anyone under 18 must also have a parent signature on the loaner agreement. They will then be issued a loaner card which will allow them to check out a rod and reel anytime. In addition to the loaner rod and reel, beginners can also receive a Fishing Tips Guide with basic fishing and rod rigging instructions and a lake may which provides tips on where to fish.