Annual Free Fishing Derby for Kids
Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Brighton Mill Pond.
Did You Know?
The Brighton Optimist Club Annual Fishing Derby at the Brighton Mill Pond is the longest-running FREE fishing contest in Michigan.
There are many fun things to do at the Fishing Derby for kids of all ages
Parents must accompany their children to the Fishing Derby. The kids do the fishing (and the parents can enjoy the fun!)
There are many species of fish in the Brighton Mill Pond. All fishing is catch and release. Fish will be measured, and the anglers with the longest fish in each age group will be the winners. Catching Ducks and Alligators will not count.
Family Fishing
Anglers receive a free T-shirt when they arrive at the Derby. The shirts have a Fishing Derby design on the front and our sponsors' info on the back.
Free Fishing Derby Shirt
Our Casting Event has anglers cast into Optimist Lake for plastic fish. Every angler will catch a fish and win a prize.
Casting Event
The Lil' Angler Fish Catching Spot is for anglers aged 5 and under.
Junior Anglers get a chance to fish in the Lil' Angler Pond. They're guaranteed to catch a magic fish that has prize to help entertain them, while older kids battle the fish in the Mill Pond.
Junior Anglers get a chance to fish in the Lil' Angler Pond. They're guaranteed to catch a magic fish that has prize to help entertain them, while older kids battle the fish in the Mill Pond.
Lil' Angler
The Optimist Club provides free worms for bait to use during the event.
Anglers can use any bait that is legal in the State of Michigan, including artificial bait.
Anglers can use any bait that is legal in the State of Michigan, including artificial bait.
Free Bait Provided
Event participants and their parents are invited to a pizza lunch at The Amp, courtesy of one of our sponsors - Hungry Howie's Pizza.
Pizza Lunch
Enjoy watching the Brighton-based Jumpin' AllStars. Having performed worldwide, their show will amaze you! They've been a part of the Annual Free Fishing Derby for many years.
