Capitola Fishing Derby New Scavenger Hunt Event

Capitola Fishing Derby 1967-2022

The Capitola fishing derby dates back to 1967. It began as part of the Begonia Festival and has continued to attract the interest and imagination of hundreds. (delete of men, women, and children for decades as part of the Capitola Beach Festival).

The day begins in darkness as the crew arrives to set up the Derby and they are welcomed by many fishermen who are already prepared to read the bounty of the deep! One of the great attractions of this event is that you don’t need a fishing license to participate!

The fishing derby has and is sponsored by many of the business- es that make Capitola one of the best places to enjoy the ocean, the people, and all that comes with our beautiful beach town.

Our excitement builds throughout the morning as fish, some large and some very small, are brought to the crew to be re- corded, admired, and celebrated. The joy of the fishing derby is shared by the volunteer crew and everyone concerned.

This is one of the special experiences of the Capitola Beach Festival – the best part is, it’s free!

Come and join on the Capitola Pier for the fishing derby on Sunday, September 26th at 7AM until 11AM. Bring your poles, your kids, your bait, your smiles, and be ready to enjoy this 54 year old classic.

New Event – Scavenger Hunt!

This year the Capitola Beach Festival will be trying out a couple of new events in an effort to engage more families and young people in fun, family-friendly activities. One of these will be a scavenger hunt. What we have planned is to pass out maps of the village with Waystations marked out. These will include Capitola Beach Festival events, historical landmarks, or other points of interest in the village. Participants will answer simple questions about what they find as they see and learn about the City of Capitola and the Capitola Beach Festival. Saturday and Sunday maps will be different so everyone can participate both days if they want. Small prizes will be given to all who complete the scavenger hunt and check in at our prize center. We are excited to offer this new event and hope it will be widely enjoyed.