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Formerly the Kokanee Salmon Festival, the Fall Fish Festival will focus on the variety of fish species that live in Lake Tahoe and its rivers. In addition to the Kokanee, these species include the federally threatened Lahontan cutthroat trout and little-known smaller fish, such as speckled dace.
“The bright red Kokanee provide an eye-catching opportunity to observe fish up close as they complete the natural cycle of life,” said Joy Barney, conservation education coordinator. “We’re taking advantage of this spectacular annual event to help families learn more about these and other local fish, and the natural wonders of Taylor Creek.”
The weekend events feature trail runs, children’s activities, and educational and streamside programs. Proceeds from T-shirt sales and the trail runs benefit Forest Service conservation education programs in the Lake Tahoe Basin.
The festival will run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. Not to be missed is the return of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s giant inflatable fish – the fish’s tail serves as the gateway to fun activity stations for kids. The festival’s mascots, Lulu the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, and Sandy and Rocky Salmon, will make appearances, and there will be a special appearance by Smokey Bear.
Speaking of bears, some black bears in the area have learned to feed on the spawning salmon, and visitor center staff routinely encounter unsafe situations as guests get too close to the bears. “Do not approach bears – they are wild animals and may attack if threatened,” said Barney. “Stay on paved trails, keep a safe distance and leave the bear an escape route.”
The Fall Fish Festival and Oktoberfest at Historic Camp Richardson Resort occur the same weekend, so the parking lot at the visitor center fills quickly. The Forest Service encourages attendees to bike, walk or take public transportation to the event.
For more information and a complete schedule of activities, contact the Taylor Creek Visitor Center at 530-543-2674 or visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ltbmu/FallFishFest. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is located three miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89.
