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. The Big Bass Rodeo consists of adult and youth divisions for bass anglers to compete.
In addition to the bank-fishing-only main event, other activities include:
- Battle for the Bass – Student fishing competition grades 6-12 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 the heaviest 15-stringer of bream, cichlids, and perch
- Fishtival – FREE event featuring DJ, food, door prizes, a host of educational exhibitors, and new and used fishing gear for sale at great prices
REGISTER NOW to compete at the 77th Annual Big Bass Fishing Rodeo on March 28, 2026. The FREE Fishtival does not require registration.
Let’s make this year’s Big Bass Fishing Rodeo and Fishtival the biggest and bassiest year yet!
If you are interested in being a sponsor, exhibitor at the Fishtival, or event volunteer, 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 our licensing site here.
