Fishing for a Cause: The Coquille River Smallmouth Bass Derby Runs Through October 1
Participating in the Coquille River Smallmouth Bass Derby is a simple way to help protect and restore the precious ecosystems and native fish species on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston.
With seemingly limitless bay and ocean fishing opportunities, plus over 30 freshwater lakes and rivers in Coos County alone, it’s no mystery why fishing on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors. But did you know that casting a line can also help protect the future of native fish, such as Chinook salmon, in their native river habitats?
The 4th Annual Coquille River Smallmouth Bass Derby , running now through October 1, is more than a fishing competition. It’s a season-long effort to protect native fish by removing an invasive predator, with the chance to earn some serious cash along the way.
Hosted by the Coquille River STEP Association (Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program), this derby offers rewards from $20 up to $1,000 for catching specially tagged smallmouth bass. You can fish from anywhere: a boat, a kayak, a paddleboard, or right off the bank of the Coquille River. It’s free to enter, and every smallmouth bass you catch helps to support a healthier ecosystem.
Just bring your catch to one of the scanning stations in Sturdivant Park ,Bryant Boat Ramp , or the Pioneer House in Powers to see if your fish is a winner.
Why It Matters
Smallmouth bass are non-native to the Coquille River and have exploded in numbers over the past decade. Introduced illegally, these invasive predators outcompete and prey on native species, disrupting the river ecosystem and threatening the survival of juvenile fall Chinook salmon.
The Coquille River Watershed is the largest river system in Oregon that originates from the Coast Range. It supports diverse wildlife and both recreational and commercial fishing in Coos County. When non-native species, such as smallmouth bass, overrun this system, they tip the balance, harming water quality and threatening the region’s ecological resilience. Without action, these problems will only get worse. The Coquille River Smallmouth Bass Derby is one way to fight back.
A Grassroots Effort
The Coquille River STEP Association is a volunteer-driven organization with deep roots in local conservation. In 2021, they launched the first Coquille River Smallmouth Bass Derby. The idea was simple: turn the community’s love for fishing into an ecological solution by offering cash for every tagged bass caught.
Now in its fourth year, the derby continues to grow thanks to community support, funding from groups like the Coquille Indian Tribe , and local business sponsors who can sponsor a fish for just $250.
- Dates: June 1 – October 1 (or until water temperatures cool)
- Cost: Free
- Where to Fish: Anywhere in the Coquille River system
- How to Win: Catch a smallmouth bass, bring it to a scanning station to see if it’s tagged.
- Prizes: Tagged bass pay out $20 to $1,000
- Scanning Hours & Locations:
- Saturday: Sturdivant Park Boat Ramp, Coquille
- Sunday: Bryant’s Boat Ramp, Myrtle Point
- Thursday: Pioneer House, Powers
- Weekday Catch Tip: Freeze your fish and bring it to a scanning station on the weekend
Ready to be part of the solution?
There’s still time to fish for a cause! Better hurry, the derby runs through October 1, 2025, or until water temperatures drop. Please see the flyer below or visit the Coquille River STEP Association website for complete details.
Need help planning your next fishing trip to Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston ? We are here to assist, so please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! Here are some details to keep in mind as you plan your trip
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Where to Stay. Browse our list of lodging properties located in Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston. You can choose accommodations on the Oregon Coast that suit your needs and preferences, whether you prefer camping ,staying in an RV , or a hotel with amenities .
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Fishing License Requirements. An Oregon fishing license is required for individuals 12 years of age or older. Daily permits are available. Most fishing charters, bait shops, and sporting goods stores can supply these for you. Check out our fishing license requirement page for where to buy a license and bait.
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Where to Buy or Rent the Equipment You’ll Need. Not sure where to get a fishing rod, tackle, or bait? No problem. Here’s a list of resources to help you get the most out of your time here. Be sure to visit the local fishing experts in one of ourbait shops while visiting; they’re always happy to share their expertise!
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Stay Current With Fishing Regulations. Conditions and regulations in Oregon are subject to change, so please check with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife for the latest recreation reports and regulation updates for our region.
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What to do. There’s a new adventure around every corner on Oregon’s Adventure Coast, so plan to stay a while! Take a look at our Trip Ideas or have a look at our Adventures Page and plan your own itinerary!
MORE FISHING RESOURCES ON OREGON’S ADVENTURE COAST
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Trip Idea: A weekend of fishing and so much more on Oregon’s Adventure Coast
