05/12/2026
Mark your calendars. The Third Annual Resurrection Derby is happening August 29–30, 2026 in Bellingham Bay — and this one is shaping up to be something special.
Last year, over 250 anglers showed up. $15,000 in cash prizes were handed out. And the energy at the awards ceremony? Electric.
This year, we’re expecting even more — and the fish are cooperating.
Based on last year’s creel reports, we moved the derby to the end of August to put you right on peak fish numbers in Bellingham Bay. These are hatchery Chinook returning to Whatcom Creek — part of a collaborative effort between WDFW, Bellingham Technical College, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, the Lummi Nation, and the Nooksack Indian Tribe.
They’re coming. They’ll be biting. And one of them could be worth $10,000.
Here's What's on the Line
First Place: up to $10,000
Second Place: $2,000
Third Place: $1,000
Secret Weight: $500
Military/Veteran: $500
Women: $500
Youth: $500
And a TON of raffle prizes. Even if you don't catch a fish, you could walk home a winner!
Note: Payout will be 50% of derby proceeds. Payout was 100% last year.
Here's How the Derby Works
Friday, August 28 — Optional Captains’ Meeting
Join us at Rockfish Grill in Anacortes at 6 PM for a no-host kickoff dinner with raffle prizes. It’s a great chance to meet your fellow anglers before the weekend begins.
Saturday & Sunday — Fish Bellingham Bay
No check-in required. Launch when you’re ready, fish your plan, and bring your best fish to the scale at Cap Sante Marina in Anacortes.
Saturday weigh-in: 3 PM – 6 PM (must be in line by 6 PM)
Sunday weigh-in: 2 PM – 5 PM (must be in line by 5 PM)
Sunday Evening — Awards Ceremony
6 PM at the Train Depot in Anacortes. Food, raffle prizes, and the moment we find out who’s taking home the big cash prize!
Tickets
Tickets are $100 per angler and will go on sale July 1 at ResurrectionDerby.com and at select local sporting goods stores.
Every dollar goes back to fish enhancement projects and fisheries-related scholarships supported by the Fidalgo-San Juan Islands Chapter of Puget Sound Anglers. You’re not just fishing for a prize — you’re investing in the future of this fishery.
For full rules, the weigh-in map, and everything you need to know, visit ResurrectionDerby.com.
See you on the water!
The Resurrection Derby Committee
Puget Sound Anglers Fidalgo-San Juan Islands Chapter
Bellingham BayAugust 16-17, 2025PicturesComplete ResultsSpawnsorsEvent OverviewWe enjoyed two days of exciting salmon fishing in Bellingham Bay with over $15,000 in cash prizes! Participation supports fish enhancement, conservation, youth fishing programs; and honors our veterans. This is more tha...
