A fishing rodeo in the heart of New Orleans? Yes – and not only that.
It’s the nation’s oldest freshwater fishing tournament, according to the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and returns later this month, giving kids and old pros alike a chance to win prizes for perch, bass or bream lined in the oak-lined lagoons of the New Orleans City Park.
The park’s 74th Annual Big Bass Rodeo and Fishtival will be held on Saturday, March 25th. Events include the Battle for the Bass student fishing tournament and Boats on the Bayou, a tournament for kayaks and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John.
The “Fishtival” takes place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the grandstand area in front of the Café du Monde in the park. It will include music, educational and hands-on activities for children and Robbie the Redfish, the department’s mascot, who will be available for photos.
- Advertisement -
And don’t fool yourself if you think this is for laypeople only. Anglers have caught blowholes in past tournaments.
Get ready now for the Big Bass Fishing Rodeo taking place on March 25th at City Park.
CHRIS GRANGER
Event details:
- The Big Bass Rodeo is catch-and-release from the shore. In addition to bass, children under the age of 12 can also fight for cichlids, bream or perch.
- The Battle for the Bass tournament is for students in grades 7 through 12 representing their school in teams of up to five anglers. Prizes include a trophy and over $500 in gift cards for Berkley products.
- Boats on the Bayou prizes include over $1,400 in gift cards from Massey’s Outfitters. A limited number of free kayak rentals are also available from Massey’s.
- Admission prices range from $5 to $25. People over the age of 18 require a sport fishing license.
- On March 24, a free fishing course for beginners will be held in the city park.
The organizers are also looking for volunteers to help during the event. For more information, please click here or email Danica Williams at [email protected]
- Advertisement -
Source
