Welcome to Day at the lake
Fishing. Mentorship. Memories Made.
Day at the Lake connects kids and community through unforgettable fishing tournaments guided by generous volunteer captains.
Join us for the 2026 Reel Summer Youth Bass Dash, hosted by Day at the Lake at beautiful Alder Lake on Saturday, July 11, 2026! This exciting summer bass tournament brings youth anglers together with experienced volunteer captains for a fun-filled day of fishing, mentorship, teamwork, and unforgettable memories on the water. A link to finalize your registration will be included in your order confirmation email. Please click the link and complete the required registration form.
100% No Refunds. No refunds will be allowed once you have completed checkout. Day at the Lake entry fees are non-refundable.
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Life vest (MANDATORY — no extras available)
Snacks/lunch, plastic bottled drinks (no cans)
Rain gear, waterproof shoes, layers for changing weather
Rod & reel (if unavailable, request one via email)
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Life vests must be worn at all times
Captains will be on-site at 5:25 AM to meet families
Boats launch in numbered order after national anthem
Weigh-ins start at 1:15 PM
This event is rain or shine
No refunds unless cancelled due to weather for safety.
On April 11, 2026, anglers, families, captains, and volunteers came together for an unforgettable kickoff to the Day at the Lake tournament season at beautiful American Lake. From first casts to trophy moments, the day was filled with teamwork, excitement, and memories that will last a lifetime.
American Lake Season Opener 2026
Young anglers hit the water alongside dedicated volunteer captains, competing in a fun and encouraging environment focused on learning, sportsmanship, and community. Throughout the day, participants battled quality bass, celebrated personal bests, and experienced the thrill of tournament fishing firsthand.
The event showcased everything Day at the Lake stands for — mentorship, family involvement, and creating opportunities for kids to connect with the outdoors. From proud award winners holding trophies, to volunteers standing together behind the mission, to fathers and daughters sharing unforgettable moments on the water, the American Lake Season Opener was a true celebration of youth fishing in Washington State.
A huge thank you goes out to our volunteer captains, sponsors, families, and community partners who helped make this event possible. We can’t wait to continue the momentum throughout the 2026 season!
🎣 What to Expect at a Day at the Lake Youth Tournament
Each Day at the Lake event pairs up to two youth anglers with an experienced volunteer boat captain for a fun, safe, and fully mentored fishing tournament.
Young anglers stay on board with their captain from launch through weigh-ins. Captains help coach, guide, and net fish during the entire day — making sure every participant learns, has fun, and gets their lines wet (and hopefully their hands fishy).
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A life jacket (required and must be worn at all times on the dock or in the boat)
A fishing rod & reel, if they have one (captains may provide extras)
A lunch and drinks for the boat
Weather-appropriate rain gear or layers — these events happen rain or shine
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A boat ride and coaching from a vetted volunteer captain
A tournament-style fishing experience
Awards for top catches and prizes for all participants
Hydration and smiles at the end of the day
An optional parent-organized BBQ or snacks when available
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Each child must have a signed waiver from their parent or guardian before they can participate.
We strive to match kids with captains as early as possible so families can communicate ahead of time.
While we aim to screen all captains, we rely on transparency, communication, and personal accountability at check-in.
Volunteer as a Captain
Step Up and Share Your Boat & Knowledge
Do you own a boat and love to fish? Volunteer to be a Captain and mentor a new generation of anglers. Whether you're a seasoned tournament pro or a weekend warrior, you can make a lasting impact by sharing your boat, your skills, and a few great stories.
Help 1–2 kids experience a real day of fishing
Provide basic instruction, encouragement, and safety
DATL supplies bait, signs, and post-event giveaways
Captains are eligible for MVC prizes, swag, and support
Register a Child for an Unforgettable Day on the Water
Important Reminder:
🛑 Minors must have a parent or guardian sign a release form. No exceptions — this is required by law and for everyone’s safety.
Ages 7–17 welcome
Must bring own life vest (required on docks & boats)
Fishing license required for kids age 15+
Rods can be provided if needed (just let us know)
Contact Us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!