Hosted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the City Park Conservancy, the Big Bass Rodeo is the oldest freshwater fishing rodeo in the nation and offers categories and activities for all ages and skill levels. There are categories for participants that have never been fishing and for anglers that are quite familiar with the lagoons in City Park. If you are looking for some family friendly fun, then head out to the FREE Fishtival and enjoy music, food, exhibits, crafts, and tons of games and activities.
In addition to the Big Bass bank fishing, other activities include:
- Battle for the Bass – Student fishing competition grades 7-12 competing for the 2 heaviest bass
- Boats on the Bayou – Bayou St. John fishing competition for kayakers and other non-motorized vessels competing for the heaviest bass and other species
- Cichlid + Bream Trim – Teams of up to five compete for heaviest 15 stringer of bream, cichlids, and perch
- Fishtival – FREE family-friendly festival featuring DJ, food, wildlife exhibits, crafts, games and activites
Be sure to check out the City Park Big Bass Fishing Rodeo webpage for more information and ways to register later this year. Mark your calendars and join us on March 29, 2025, as we make the 76th Annual Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival the biggest and bassiest year yet!
If you are interested in being a sponsor, exhibitor, vendor, or volunteer at the Fishtival, please contact Danica Williams (dwilliams@wlf.la.gov).
Anglers 18 years and older participating in these events must possess a valid Louisiana recreational fishing license. To purchase a license, visit www.louisianaoutdoors.com.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. 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.