Fishing & Rowboats

Registration begins at 7:00 AM near the end of the Capitola Wharf. Bring your own fishing poles. Open to all ages. Final Tally begins at 11 AM. Trophies awarded to winners in several categories, and overall winner is awarded a prize.

The Rowboat Races are a series of timed head-to-head races that go up and down Soquel Creek, between the bridge and trestle. Groups of two compete in races for the best time in their age group. (Age group is determined by the age of the rower.)

There are always a few ringers in older groups seeking revenge from last year’s loss but the highlight is the Youth. Coaxed by parents and siblings into rowboats along with a passenger, the youngsters often take their first ride in a rowboat.  The crowds cheer everyone and there are groans when the boats get caught up in riverside plants or docked boats but it’s all still a delight. “Passengers” are there to help the youngest rowers but depending on skill and relationship to the rower they have been described as captain, coach or just ballast.  Sibling rivalries are fueled by the excitement, followed by the battles for inter-generational family honors. Oh, and the spouses battling each other are quite eye opening, but it’s all in fun!

Once the rowers figure out they are pulling the oars to go backwards, they think it is easy, but just wait for that first turn.  Pulling the opposite side of where you want to go (backwards) with your coach yelling “encouragement” stresses out even the best of the rowers and the circles entail.  This is when many are glad they are only spectators.

The rowboats races are unpredictable in the details but always enjoyable and a crowd favorite.

This is a great event of bow-to-bow competing with circling boats, intra-family feuds, loud laughs and a general great ending to a wonderful summer weekend where cherished memories are made in Capitola, California. Don’t miss out, get to the bridge to sign up early!