About this tournament

The Augusta Kids Fishing Derby is one of the most beloved family fishing events on the Rocky Mountain Front. Held annually in July at Willow Creek Reservoir just outside Augusta, the derby is open exclusively to anglers age 12 and under and is shore-fishing only — no unsupervised children. Past years have drawn 200+ kids and entire ranching and homesteading families from Augusta, Choteau, Great Falls, and beyond.

Fishing typically runs from about 9 a.m. through early afternoon, with weigh-in closing mid-day. Awards, food, and door prizes follow in downtown Augusta at the gathering spot announced day-of. The derby is free to enter, and stocked rainbow trout from FWP make for an accessible, kid-scaled outing on calm shoreline water.

Montana FWP lists the event on its annual Fishing Contests roster. The event is community-run with local radio, businesses, and volunteers providing prizes and meals — bring sunscreen, a kid-sized rod, a bucket of worms or PowerBait, and a willingness to cheer for every bite.

Schedule

• Saturday Jul 11 — Registration at Willow Creek Reservoir (morning)
• Mid-morning to early afternoon — Shore fishing for trout
• Approx. 2:00 p.m. — Weigh-in closes, prizes and food in downtown Augusta

Entry & Prizes

Entry: Free to enter for kids age 12 and under. Day-of registration at the reservoir.

What to expect

Willow Creek Reservoir is regularly stocked with rainbow trout by Montana FWP. Bring a kid-friendly spinning rod, small hooks, worms or PowerBait, a bobber, and plenty of patience. Shoreline access is easy and the water is calm — perfect for first-time anglers. Arrive early to claim a good spot and check in.

History

The Augusta Kids Fishing Derby launched in 2023 as a community partnership between local businesses, KSEN AM radio, and Augusta-area volunteers. It has grown each year, with past events drawing more than 200 kids and full families to the reservoir and downtown Augusta.