The 2011 MDR Halibut Derby is Saturday May 14th. The last two days to Sign Up are on Thursday the 12th and Friday the 13th. Fishermen and Fisherwomen need to stop by Burton Chase Park at the very end of Mindanao Way to get in this fun fishing event.

This annual charity event is different this year. "The entry fee for is only $30 per angler and makes this very affordable for anybody who wants to participate." Says Halibut Derby Chairman Ken Raymond. Other changes include an expanded area for fishing, other species added and giving a weight bonus for live release of halibut. All this combine to help "Save the Halibut" from too much fishing pressure. A 20% weight credit for live halibut released give anglers encouragement to keep smaller halibut for release.

Weds night (May 4th) the Marina Del Rey Anglers hosting a special fishing seminar in Burton Chase Park. Two local fishing pros (Dick Schaffer and David Yumori, AKA Captain Midnight) shared invaluable tips on how to approach the derby and to succeed in catching the target fish of Halibut, Sand Bass, White Seabass and a sack of five Rock Fish. Attending the seminar was approx 60 anglers and the new 2011 Miss Halibut. Anglers will want to get a photo opportunity with their catch and our beauty queen for the day Miss Deve McLaughlin.

"Get your hooks sharp and get out there. Someone has to win it!" says Bob Kissling the MDRA club president. He has put this event together before and knows how many fishermen look forward to this event each year. The proceeds from the MDR Halibut Derby funds the club's Youth Fishing Program, its White Seabass Pens in Marina Del Rey and other marine environmental and conservation programs. In the summer of 2010 MDRA took over 500 children fishing.

All you have to do is sign up at Burton Chase Park on Thursday May 12, or Friday May 13 between 3 to 8 P.M. The entry will be only $30.