America’s Oldest Freshwater Fishing Rodeo Celebrates it’s 75th Anniversary
Keith Lusher 03.08.24
The oldest freshwater fishing rodeo in the country is about to hit a milestone! The New Orleans City Park Big Bass Rodeo will celebrate its 75th year in operation on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at City Park in New Orleans, LA.
The Big Bass Rodeo is a catch-and-release tournament for anglers who fish the lagoons in City Park from land. The tournament is a “biggest-bass” tournament for those over 13 and older. For junior anglers (ages 12 and under), the rodeo includes competitive categories for heaviest bass or heaviest bream.
In addition to the Big Bass Tournament, there will be other activities and contests like the Battle for the Bass which is division that offers 7th-12th graders an opportunity to compete. Students in grades 7 – 12 will represent their schools in teams of up to five anglers. The team that weighs in the heaviest two-bass (combined weight) will take home a three-foot Battle for Bass trophy to display at their school. The winners will also receive $500 in gift cards for Berkley products along with bragging rights for the year!
For those fishing from a kayak, there will be a separate division called the Boats on the Bayou. This is a kayak tournament that will be held in Bayou St. John which is located on the outskirts of City Park. This event is for kayaks and non-motorized boats only. Boats on the Bayou offers two competitive categories that include the biggest bass and an “Other” division which allows anglers to weigh any fish caught with a rod and reel. If you don’t have a kayak, don’t worry, Massey’s Outfitters will be there to rent one to you free of charge. Anglers are encouraged to register early for the kayaks as there are a limited number to be rented. Massey’s also will be donating $1,400 in gift cards to their stores all across Louisiana.
For those not competing there will be plenty of entertainment as the rodeo will hold its Feshtival event which includes games, raffles, food, and music. The event is free to everyone and families are encouraged to attend. The Fishtival will be held from 9 a.m. to noon in the grandstand area in front of Cafe du Monde on Dreyfous Avenue in City Park. The event will feature music as well as educational and hands-on activities for kids. LDWF mascot, Robbie the Redfish, will be on hand for photo opportunities.
TOURNAMENT DIVISIONS:
Big Bass Rodeo
- 6:30-11 am; must be in line at weigh station before 11 am
- $20 (13 and older); $10 (12 and under)
Battle for the Bass Student Fishing Competition
- 6:30-11 am; must be in line at weigh station before 11 am
- $20 (13 and older); $10 (12 and under)
Boats on the Bayou
- 7-10:30 am; must be in line at weigh station before 10:30 am
- $35 pre-registration fee; $40 on site
Fishtival
- 9 am-Noon | Popp Bandstand by Cafe Du Monde
- Free
For more information, visit www.bigbassfishingrodeo.com. Registration is open and fees vary depending on division. Contact Danica Williams at dwilliams@wlf.la.gov with questions.
