Every April, trout join this water body’s namesake to usher in spring to the Venice area.
The inaugural Louisiana Saltwater Series, hosted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation, continues Saturday at Falgout Canal Marina in Dularge.
Avid anglers and newcomers alike are invited to participate in this one-of-a-kind tag and release redfish tournament.
Sport fishing tournaments have a long tradition on the coastal waters of Louisiana, but most of these tournaments are privately sponsored. This new, innovative venture provides a competitive angling opportunity to a broader audience. The tournaments are not just for big name fishermen but open to all interested anglers.
Participation in this grassroots tournament provides anglers with the opportunity to give back to the resource. LDWF personnel will be on hand at each tournament to assist with the tag and release of all fish. Data collected from tournament entries will serve as a valuable tool for LDWF fisheries managers and biologists to improve their understanding of marine sport fish movements, patterns of habitat use and estimate population size.
Contestants will vie for cash prizes and test their skill, while enjoying the thrill of the competitive sport. In order to participate in the series, each team must submit an application and a $200 entry fee for each event, which covers a two-man team. A third team member may be eligible if under 16 years of age.
Series events to follow are: June 12 in Delacroix, Sweet Water Marina; July 10 in Empire, Delta Marina; Sept. 11 in Slidell, LA, The Dock; Championship event, Oct. 8 and 9 in Empire, Delta Marina.
All tournament proceeds will go to the LWFF and provide funding support for the department’s tagging program. Costs incurred by the event are funded through grants, sponsorships and entry fees.
Online registration for the Dularge tournament is closed, but those interested in participating can register at the Falgout Canal Marina from 4 to 6 a.m., the morning of the event. Only cash or checks will be accepted for payment of registration fees the morning of the event.
For complete information, including rules, regulations and entry forms go to: www.wlf.louisiana.gov/lasaltwaterseries.
