For something fun to do this weekend (April 15-16), make the quick run up to Cachuma Lake to see the splendor of this lake when it is near spilling.

The gorgeous lake is even far more stunning when it is brimming full and the surrounding land looks so green from springtime growth after the wettest winter I can remember.

This is a super special weekend at Lake Cachuma because the Neal Taylor Nature Center is hosting the 26th annual Fish Derby, which serves as both a fun-raiser for everyone who enjoys the lake and a fundraiser for the Nature Center.

To register for the derby, become a sponsor, donate items for the many raffles, or be a volunteer for this important community event, visit troutderby.org or e-mail fishderby@clnaturecenter.org.

Capt. Tiffany Vague and I, your loyal reporter, will serve as the emcees for the awards ceremonies and raffles on Sunday after the fishing part of the derby wraps up and it is time to give away rows and rows of great prizes donated by our community.

Also on stage will be Julie McDonald, the long-time and highly-regarded executive director of the Neal Taylor Nature Center. Julie has immersed herself in nature all of her life and finds deep joy and satisfaction in teaching people about all things nature.

Capt. Vague is recognized as among the 10 best custom fishing-rod builders in the world. Last year she built a custom rod for the Fish Derby, which was auctioned off in brisk bidding for $750 to a gentleman who knew he was acquiring a valuable custom rod made by Capt. Vague. This year she is again building a custom rod which will be auctioned off to a lucky bidder.

Have you been to Lake Cachuma since all of the rains filled her up with possibly enough water to fill it twice over? It is looking magnificent and much work has been done by county staff to clean up after the rainy deluges. There may or may not be campsites available this weekend. If not, just come up for the day.

While visiting, roam around the lake awhile to see it full, have a meal at the fun restaurant, get some bait and tackle and a fishing license at the shop if you want to toss in a line (loads of trout have been stocked for the derby), and stop by the good ol’ general store to see some interesting and unique merchandise and to pick up snacks and drinks.

With such a spectacular local nature resource, we are nuts if we don’t plan at least a few visits per year. This weekend is one of the most fun and worthwhile weekends of the year to visit the lake and do something to help support the Neal Taylor Nature Center.