A Fishing Tradition Locals Love: The BFEF Trout Tournament
April 29, 2025
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If you live in Bridgeport — or anywhere in Mono County —
A Fishing Tradition Locals Love: The BFEF Trout Tournament
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If you live in Bridgeport — or anywhere in Mono County — you already know: fishing isn’t just a hobby here. It’s a way of life. And every summer, locals and long-time visitors gather for one of the most beloved events in the Eastern Sierra: the BFEF Trout Tournament, hosted by the Bridgeport Fish Enhancement Foundation.
What Is The BFEF Tournament?
The BFEF Trout tournament is a locally-rooted tradition hosted in Bridgeport and built by and for the community. It’s a gathering of local anglers, families, and longtime visitors who return each year for a weekend of serious fishing and genuine connection.
Tournament divisions include:
- Men’s Division
- Women’s Division
- Junior Division (for anglers 15 and under)
Whether you’re aiming for the top prize or simply out to enjoy the Eastern Sierra with your family, this tournament welcomes anglers of all experience levels. It’s as much about the people as it is the fish — and that’s what keeps the tradition going year after year.
When and where is the tournament held?
The tournament typically takes place in late June, with fishing permitted across multiple nearby waters including:
- Bridgeport Reservoir
- Upper and Lower Twin Lakes
- Robinson Creek
- Virginia Creek
- Virginia Lakes
- Trumbull Lake
- West Walker River
- East Walker River
How Do You Sign Up for the BFEF?
Registration is simple and can be completed online.
Register here: BFEF Tournament Page
Or contact one of the event organizers:
Ken: 714-227-0765
Ray: 760-616-4214
Have questions about fishing locations or tagged trout? These contacts are happy to assist.
What Does The Registration Include?
Registration is not only your ticket to the competition—it includes several perks that enhance the overall experience:
Your entry fee includes:
- Entry into your chosen division
- Access to raffle drawings, sponsor giveaways, and prizes
- Admission to the Community Dinner & Awards Ceremony
- Tournament swag and sponsor-branded gifts
- Eligibility for top cash awards and recognition
Entry Fees:
- Adults: $75
- Juniors (15 and under): $40
- Dinner-only guests: $40 per person (non-anglers welcome)
*These prices are subject to change, please check the BFEF website for more information.
What Are the Prizes And Rewards?
The BFEF Trout Tournament features multiple prize categories to recognize outstanding anglers and promote youth participation:
- $500 Educational Award: Awarded to one junior participant
- $750 Cash Award: Awarded to one BFEF Tagged Trophy Trout (TTT) Club angler
- $500 Adult Angler Award: Awarded to a top performer in the Men’s or Women’s division
- Additional Raffles & Giveaways: Featuring gear, local merchandise, and gift certificates
Tagged fish and other special prizes add an extra layer of excitement for those hoping to land something truly memorable.
Why Is The Tournament Important?
Unlike large, commercial tournaments, the BFEF Trout Tournament is driven by local values and nonprofit goals. It offers:
- High-quality trout stocked through BFEF’s enhancement efforts
- Beautiful alpine fishing locations in Mono County
- Strong community engagement and local business support
- A mission-driven approach to environmental stewardship and education
This event supports BFEF’s larger efforts to maintain sustainable trout populations and promote outdoor education, especially among youth.
What do you need to bring to the tournament?
To ensure a successful and enjoyable day, participants are encouraged to bring the following:
- Valid California fishing license (ages 16 and up)
- Fishing gear (rods, reels, bait/lures)
- Cooler for your catch
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Weather-appropriate layers (mountain weather can change quickly)
- Optional: lawn chairs or picnic blanket for dinner and awards
Why Locals And Visitors Return Each Year
The BFEF Trout Tournament is more than a competition — it’s a reflection of Bridgeport’s values: outdoor living, community engagement, and respect for nature.
Locals know it as a weekend where families reconnect, traditions are honored, and the trout bite just a little bit better. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to experience Bridgeport at its most welcoming.
Visiting Bridgeport For The BFEF Trout Tournament?
Book one of our comfortable RV’s. We’ll handle the setup, all you have to do is book!
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