The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is getting ready for the 73rd annual Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival in New Orleans City Park on Saturday, March 28. With a fishing category for every age and a family friendly Fishtival, there’s sure to be something for everyone. The day also includes 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.
The Battle for the Bass Tournament is for students in grades 7 through 12 to represent their schools in teams of up to five anglers and battle it out for the heaviest two-bass combined weight. The winning team will take home bragging rights for the year as well as the three-foot Battle for Bass trophy to display at their school.
Boats on the Bayou is open to anglers with kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft and offers two competitive categories: Bass and Trashbash. Don’t have a kayak? Don’t worry! Massey’s will be offering free kayak rentals for use during the tournament. Anyone competing in Boats on the Bayou will be entered into a drawing for a new kayak courtesy of Massey’s.
The Fishtival will take place from 9 a.m. to noon in the grandstand area in front of Popp’s Bandstand 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 a kayak donated by Academy Sports and Outdoors, along with tons of fishing gear and other items.
Interested in assisting with Big Bass Rodeo? There are many ways for you or your business to get involved. If you are interested in becoming a partner or supporting this event in any way (volunteer, raffle donations, event sponsors, etc.) please contact Danica Williams at dwilliams@wlf.la.gov with questions.
For more information or to register online, visit www.bigbassfishingrodeo.com. Follow the City Park Big Bass Rodeo Facebook page to stay up to date with event details at https://www.facebook.com/BigBassFishingRodeo. Registration fees vary depending on division.
A recreational fishing license is required for participants 16 years and older. To purchase a license online, click HERE.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive recreational or commercial fishing email and text alerts, signup at http://www.wlf.la.gov//communication/subscribe?email=.
LWDF works in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation. The LWFF was formed to provide a means for individuals and corporations to become partners with the Department and Commission in the challenge of conserving Louisiana’s wildlife and fisheries resources.