Dana Wharf Sportfishing's Halibut Derby returns for 2026, with a portion of each entry fee benefitting the ongoing work of the Coastal Conservation Association of California (CCA CAL), the only state-wide organization fighting for your right to fish.
The Halibut Derby is set to kick off on January 1 and run through March 31, and will include more than $1,000 in great monthly prizes provided by a host of sponsors, including Costa Sunglasses, Daiwa Fishing Tackle, Fishworks Clothing, Hogan Bait and Tackle, and Turner's Outdoorsman stores, as well as CCA CAL. The angler who catches the largest California halibut overall during the derby's three-month run will win a grand prize of $1,000. Dana Wharf Sportfishing's famous fleet—including the Clemente, Sum Fun and Reel Fun—will all be participating in the 2026 Halibut Derby.
"We are delighted to have so many great sponsor prizes for the 2026 Dana Wharf Sportfishing Halibut Derby," said Donna Kalez, COO of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. "It is a super popular event, and this year conditions for halibut fishing are looking very favorable."
"We are also proud to donate 50 percent of every entry fee to CCA CAL to support the fight for anglers' rights and to help conserve our marine resources. Every angler in California should belong to CCA CAL."
There are two ways to enter: 1) Join one of the Dana Wharf Sportfishing halibut-drift day trips on Fridays departing at 6 a.m., or 2) join any local open party ½- or ¾- day trip. It's just $5 to enter for each trip that you take. To learn more about the derby and its rules and regulations, visit danawharf.com or call 949-496-5794, ext. 7.
ABOUT CCA CAL: The non-profit Coastal Conservation Association of California was created in 2015 when recreational anglers and outdoor enthusiasts came together to work for the conservation and enhancement of our marine resources and coastal environments. Today, we are working to protect not only the health, habitat, and sustainability of our marine resources, as well as the interests of saltwater anglers. Our goal is to protect your access to the marine resources you cherish and enjoy every day. CCA CAL consists of members spread across local chapters in California and growing every day.