NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Anglers of all ages are invited to celebrate an aquatic anniversary at City Park.
City Park Conservancy and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announce the 75th-annual Big Bass Fishing Rodeo on Saturday, March 23. The family-friendly fishing competition will take place throughout New Orleans City Park and along Bayou St. John.
“We are so honored to continue this treasured tradition of fishing in the Park handed down from generation to generation,” said City Park Conservancy President and CEO Cara Lambright. “Thanks to our partners at LDWF, the Big Bass Rodeo not only provides a fun day for families, but also an opportunity to educate the community on the importance of sustainability in City Park – and beyond.”
Big Bass Rodeo is a catch-and-release bank-fishing tournament. Students in grades 7-12 who wish to represent their schools can team up in the Battle for the Bass competition. Kayakers can compete in the Boats on the Bayou event on Bayou St. John for non-motorized watercraft.
Also included is the free Fishtival featuring music, exhibits as well as educational and hands-on activities for kids. Jambalaya provided by the Knights of Columbus will be available for purchase.
“We look forward to this event each year,” said Danica Williams, LDWF Fisheries Outreach. “We are excited to be a part of the 75th event and look forward to working hard to create an unforgettable day of fishing at this one-of-a-kind Fishtival right here in the heart of the city of New Orleans.”
All lagoons in the Park are open to fishing except the Louisiana Children’s Museum campus, Bayou Oaks North Course, Bayou Oaks South Course and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Boating is not allowed in the lagoons and bayous within City Park except Bayou St. John. To view the full map and to register, visit NewOrleansCityPark.org.
A recreational fishing license is required for participants 18 years and older. To purchase a license online, click here.
TOURNAMENT DIVISIONS:
Big Bass Rodeo
- 6:30-11 a.m.; must be in line at weigh station before 11 a.m.
- $20 (13 and older); $10 (12 and under)
Battle for the Bass Student Fishing Competition
- 6:30-11 a.m.; must be in line at weigh station before 11 a.m.
- $20 (13 and older); $10 (12 and under)
Boats on the Bayou
- 7-10:30 a.m.; must be in line at weigh station before 10:30 a.m.
- $35 pre-registration fee; $40 on site
Fishtival
- 9 a.m. – noon | Popp Bandstand by Cafe Du Monde
- Free
