After many pandemic-related delays, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will finally celebrate the launch of two new Get Out & Fish locations. Both Parc Natchitoches in Natchitoches and Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site in Pineville will host a FREE Get Out & Fish! event at each pond. These family-friendly fishing events will include a fishing tournament for all ages, various fishing activities and demonstrations, and raffle prizes! The ponds at both sites will be stocked with adult-size channel catfish prior to the event. The information for each event is:
| October 29, 2022 | November 19, 2022 |
| Parc Natchitoches | Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site |
| 4515 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 135 Riverfront St, Pineville, LA 71360 |
The first 100 youth to register for each event will receive a goody bag, and every participant will be entered into a raffle drawing to win prizes. To pre-register for this event, or for more information visit www.wlf.la.gov/gof. You can also follow us and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @ldwfgetoutandfish. Anglers 18 and older must possess a valid Louisiana recreational fishing license. Licenses can be purchased at www.LouisianaOutdoors.com.
For anglers looking to sharpen their skills, LDWF is hosting Beginner Catfishing courses as part of the new Fishing Course Series at the event sites. Participants can register for these courses at www.LouisianaOutdoors.com/events. Course info for each site can be found below:
| Parc Natchitoches | Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site |
| October 28 – 4:30pm-6:30pm (All Ages) | November 19 – 2:30-4:30pm (Ages 16 & older) |
| October 29 – 2:30pm-4:30pm (Ages 16 & older) |
The Get Out & Fish! program is hosted in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LAWFF). The LAWFF 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.
The Get Out &Fish! program is funded by the Sport Fish Restoration Fund, a USFWS grant program that provides grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. LDWF receives no state general funding and depends on license sales as a major funding source. Help us protect your hunting and fishing heritage while preserving habitat, wildlife, and aquatic resources by purchasing your license at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive email or text alerts signup here.
For more information on the Get Out &Fish! Program, contact Danica Williams at gof@wlf.la.gov or (504) 628-7282.