SCHEELS Outdoor Adventure Series: Fishing Derby

Get ready for a summer of exploration with the SCHEELS Outdoor Adventure Series, hosted in partnership with the Des Moines Water Works Park Foundation. Join us for an exciting lineup of activities including e-bike demos, running, camping, and fishing. Whether you’re testing out new gear or enjoying the Park, there’s something for every adventurer to discover.

Whether you’re casting a line for the first time or have years of fishing experience, the SCHEELS Outdoor Adventure Series Fishing Derby provides a fun and welcoming environment to sharpen your skills, learn new techniques, and enjoy the natural beauty of Water Works Park.

Throughout the event, SCHEELS fishing experts will be on-site to help participants select the right fishing equipment, demonstrate fishing techniques, and share tips and resources to make future fishing adventures even more successful. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about gear selection, and gain insights from experienced anglers.

Participants will have the opportunity to catch a variety of fish commonly found in Water Works Park, including bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish, carp, and freshwater drum. Whether you’re hoping to reel in your first bluegill or land a prize-worthy bass or catfish, the Fishing Derby offers exciting opportunities for anglers of every age and experience level, while competing for bragging rights and the chance to win SCHEELS gift cards, which will be awarded for the largest (and smallest) fish caught in each species category.

The event is designed for anglers of all skill levels and ages. Participants aged 15 and younger are not required to possess an Iowa Department of Natural Resources fishing license. Participants aged 16 and older must possess a valid Iowa fishing license in accordance with state regulations.

All SCHEELS Outdoor Adventure Series Fishing Derby participants will be required to sign a waiver before participating.

For more information on obtaining a fishing license, click here.