The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is gearing up for the 70th annual Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival in New Orleans City Park on Saturday, March 25. With a fishing category for every age and a family friendly fishtival, there’s sure to be something for everyone.  This year’s event will again include the Battle for the Bass student fishing tournament and Boats on the Bayou non-motorized tournament on Bayou St. John.     
 
The Big Bass Rodeo is a catch-and-release fishing tournament for anglers targeting the largest bass. For junior anglers (ages 12 and under), the rodeo includes competitive categories for heaviest bass or heaviest cichlid, bream, or perch.
 
With its successful introduction last year, LDWF will again host the Battle for the Bass Tournament. Students in grades 7 through 12 will represent their respective schools in teams of up to five anglers and will battle it out for the heaviest two-bass combined weight. The winning team will take home bragging rights for the year as well as a 3-foot trophy to display at their school. The first 50 students to register will receive fishing gear donated by Berkley.
 
Boats on the Bayou is open to anglers with kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft and offers four competitive categories. All participating anglers will be entered to win a kayak, courtesy of Massey’s Professional Outfitters.
 
The fishtival will take place from 9 a.m. to noon in the grandstand area in front of Morning Call on Dreyfous Avenue in City Park. The event will feature music as well as educational and hands-on activities for kids. LDWF mascot Robbie the Redfish will be on hand for photo opportunities. Event raffle prizes include kayaks donated by Cabela’s and Academy Sports and Outdoors, along with tons of fishing gear and other items.
 
A recreational fishing license is required for participants 16 years and older. 
  
Registration fees vary depending on division. For more information or to register online, visit www.bigbassfishingrodeo.com. Online registration is open until 5 p.m. on March 23. Contact Danica Williams at dwilliams@wlf.la.gov with questions.