The Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby is the oldest and largest Halibut Derby in Southern California. This event is produced by the Marina Del Rey Anglers fishing club and the many volunteers. The derby is how the fishing club raises money for charity. Most of the funds raised goes to support MDRA Youth Fishing Program & White Sea Bass Enhancement Program. MDR Anglers Youth Fishing Committee plans, runs and mans many boat trips each summer. Working to take 1,000+ kids fishing on trips out of MDR on the Betty-O. Some are from various youth groups. Some are from inner city organizations. Some are from disadvantaged or special needs programs.

When these young people are out on the ocean with a caring volunteer mentor they often see a new side of the world that they live in. Caring adults teaching them a way to play and enjoy nature in a healthy and wholesome way. It can be very special for the mentors as well. It is a great experience to teach a kid to fish.

This year, 2008, the 34th Annual Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby was just held on April 5th and 6th. A big 37.3 pound fish took the lead early and held on for the best fish of the derby.