NEW ORLEANS (press release) – City Park Conservancy (CPC) and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) invite anglers to the annual Big Bass Fishing Rodeo on Saturday, March 28.
The 77th-annual family friendly fishing competition will take place throughout New Orleans City Park and along Bayou St. John.
“It brings us immense joy to see the park packed with people of all ages searching for that winning catch,” said CPC President and CEO Rebecca Dietz. “We are proud to host this incredible event each year, and even more proud to partner with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to make it happen.”
Big Bass Rodeo is a catch-and-release bank-fishing tournament with multiple ways to participate. 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.
“With such a great location and our strong partnership with City Park, this event is an ideal way to introduce youth and families to some of the best fishing in the state, right here in New Orleans,” said LDWF Fisheries Outreach Program Manager Danica Williams. “It is a fun, hands-on way for young anglers to learn, explore, and make lasting memories outdoors.”
Most lagoons in the park are open to fishing except for 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.
The 2026 Big Bass Fishing Rodeo is supported by Massey’s. Sponsorship opportunities are available to support the health and maintenance of City Park’s waterways and natural wildlife habitats for community enjoyment. Sponsors receive logo recognition at the event, complimentary registrations, and more. To view sponsorship levels, visit bit.ly/BBFR-26.
Tournament Divisions/Schedule
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 (before 3/26) fee; $45 on site
Fishtival
Free
9 a.m. – noon | Popp Bandstand by Café Du Monde
