Inaugural Youth Fishing Contest at Lake Mead

Lake Mead Mohave Adventures hosted its inaugural youth fishing event at Callville Bay Marina on Memorial Day weekend, attracting families from Southern Nevada. Children aged 5 to 15 learned fishing techniques, participated in a casting contest, and received free poles. The event promoted outdoor activities and aims to become an annual tradition.

Editorsdesk Otto M. May 26, 2026 2 min read

Inaugural youth fishing event during Memorial Day weekend

LAS VEGAS – May 26, 2026 — Families gathered at Callville Bay Marina on Memorial Day as Lake Mead Mohave Adventures hosted its inaugural youth casting contest to celebrate the start of summer break.

JUST NOW NEWS attended Monday’s event, where children ages 5 to 15 learned fishing basics, practiced casting techniques, and competed in a family-friendly contest along the marina docks.

Organizers said the event reached full capacity ahead of the holiday weekend as families from across Southern Nevada signed up to participate.

Children fishing on a dock with a crowd of spectators in the background at a lakeside event, surrounded by dry hills on a sunny day.

A fishing contest scene at a dock with participants and spectators. A man in a red shirt is speaking to a young boy who is holding a fishing rod, while others are watching and some are taking photos. The background shows a lake, mountains, and other people participating in activities.

Children received free fishing poles and instruction

The day began with practice sessions led by Lake Mead Mohave Adventures staff members. Every registered participant received a free fishing pole and hands-on instruction focused on casting and water safety.

Staff members guided children through basic techniques before the official contest began at noon.

Organizers used rods equipped with weighted bobbers during the competition to help create a safe environment for younger participants. During the contest, each child stepped onto the casting dock individually and attempted three casts for distance.

Families lined the marina while participants competed across several age groups throughout the afternoon.

A group of children and an adult on a dock by the water, some wearing life jackets and enjoying a sunny day. The background shows other people, boats, and a mountainous landscape.

Community groups joined outdoor event

The event also brought together several outdoor and community organizations. Representatives from the Nevada Department of Wildlife, National Park Service, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, and Bass Pro Shops attended the event.

The organizations interacted with families while promoting outdoor recreation, fishing education, and safe boating practices during the summer season.

Lake Mead Mohave Adventures said the contest aimed to introduce more children to fishing while encouraging families to spend time outdoors at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

A group of people gathered under a tent labeled 'Nevada Department of Wildlife' at a lake, with mountains in the background and a boat docked nearby.

Awards ceremony held aboard houseboat

After the competition ended, organizers hosted an awards ceremony aboard a Lake Mead Mohave Adventures houseboat.

Children gathered with family members on the upper deck while organizers announced winners across multiple age categories. Participants received t-shirts, swag bags, stickers, and other prizes during the ceremony.

The event concluded with a raffle to help raise money for youth life jackets. Organizers said the fundraiser supports future water safety efforts and family recreation programs at Lake Mead.

Organizers hope event returns next year

Lake Mead Mohave Adventures leaders said they hope the inaugural casting contest becomes an annual Memorial Day tradition.

As summer tourism and outdoor recreation activity increase across Southern Nevada, organizers said family-focused events remain an important part of connecting local residents and visitors with Lake Mead.