The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, in partnership with the City of Lafayette, will launch its new Get Out and Fish! Program on Saturday, November 15 at Girard Park in Lafayette. Join us for a fun fishing competition and educational activities for all ages.
LDWF biologists will demonstrate fishing fundamentals including bait and tackle selection tips to fish identification. Other activities will include knot tying, casting practice and an interative mobile touch tank. LDWF’s mascot, Robbie the Redfish, will make appearances throughout the day to greet attendees and take photographs.
Fishing competition categories include heaviest catfish and heaviest “other” fish. Age divisions include Little Angler (ages 10 and under), Junior Angler (ages 11-15) and Adult Angler (ages 16 and older).
Prior to the event, Girard Park Pond will be stocked with adult channel catfish, so don’t forget to bring your own gear, bait and an ice chest to keep your fish. Anglers 16 and older must possess a valid Louisiana fishing license.
The event is free, and the first 100 registrants in attendance will receive a complimentary rod and reel, courtesy of Pure Fishing, and a goody bag. In addition, every participant will be entered into raffle drawings throughout the day for a chance to win prizes from sponsors including Raising Canes, Louisiana Nursery, Home Depot, Buckfins-N-Feathers, Cajun Guns and Tackle and others. Lunch will be provided courtesy of the Beaver Club of Lafayette. Pre-registration is available online at www.wlf.la.gov/getoutandfish.
The Get Out and Fish! Program seeks to increase the number of people with access to quality fishing. The program intends to recruit new anglers to the sport of fishing and promote outdoor activities for future generations. In order to accomplish this mission, public water bodies that meet the required specifications will be chosen by LDWF biologists and stocked on a regular basis for up to one year. LDWF will promote the launch of each new site with a Get Out and Fish! event.
This event is hosted 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 fish resources.
The 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, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
For more information on Get Out and Fish! Program, contact Danica Williams at dwilliams@wlf.la.gov or (504) 628-7282.