SalmonFest returns Saturday for annual daylong run

SalmonFest is back for a third year, and it’s lining up to be an even better party than last year.

The annual celebration of the San Joaquin River at Lost Lake Park returns Saturday with increased activities and exhibits, according to event organizer Steve Thao of Trout Unlimited.

Sponsored by the San Joaquin River Partnership, SalmonFest will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The festival will be highlighted by an expected release of adult chinook salmon into the river at 2 p.m. (pending fish availability from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife). Fall-run salmon were released in 2013 but not last year because of warm-water temperatures in early November.

“Our expectation is to release,” Thao said. “That’s why we moved it a month back to the first week of December.”

Festival-goers also will have a chance to get on the water, with free canoe rides offered by the San Joaquin River Parkway & Conservation Trust.

In addition, an 800-cubic-foot fishing pool will be filled with 250 to 300 fish. Volunteers will teach how to tie and cast flies.

“It really is fishing in a barrel,” Thao said. “We hope everyone catches at least one or two.”

The event, which drew more than 600 people last year, also will feature giveaways such as TVs, electronics and fishing poles. Other entertainment includes arts and crafts, pony rides, live music and a singing contest.

“Just bring a good attitude – and maybe a cooler to take your fish home,” Thao said.

While the event is free, a $5 vehicle entry fee is required to enter Lost Lake.

This story was originally published December 2, 2015 at 4:21 PM with the headline "SalmonFest returns Saturday for annual daylong run."