Come to the Vineyard and fish The Derby! For over 70 years, "The Derby" has been a time to renew friendships, share a cup of coffee and create memories that fuel the winters exaggerated fishing stories. It is a time when all are able to refocus on the natural beauty of this island sanctuary. Be a part of seven decades of great fishing, history, new friends, generous sponsor support, and lasting memories! Remember, Derby registration is open at Island tackle shops throughout the Derby!
The Derby has drawn as many as 3000 anglers during a single season, and over 70-plus years the prizes have increased from $1,000 for the major prize of the 1946 Derby to the contemporary grand prize awards usually well in excess of $60,000. The 2017 Grand Prize sponsors are Clay Family Dealerships and Cape Codder Custom Fishing Boats, and the Grand Prizes this year are a brand new Subaru Crosstrek truck and a Cape Codder 19 with 90hp Tohatsu outboard and trailer. Those who have participated in this competition have become well aware that for many, particularly the island residents, the Derby is much more than a fishing contest, it’s a yearlong obsession that culminates in a 45-day fishing marathon.
The 2017 Derby begins at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, September 10, 2017 and ends at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2017. Join anglers from all across the world as they converge on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in search of striped bass, bluefish, bonito and false albacore.
All Tackle Division: $50 (Seniors $25)
Junior All Tackle Division: $25
Fly Rod Division: $50 (Seniors $25)
Derby registration can only be completed on the island at a list of designated venues noted on the official Derby website, www.mvderby.com.
