After many pandemic-related delays, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will finally celebrate the launch of two new Get Out & Fish locations. Both Parc Natchitoches in Natchitoches and Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site in Pineville will host a FREE Get Out & Fish! event at each pond. These family-friendly fishing events will include a fishing tournament for all ages, various fishing activities and demonstrations, and raffle prizes! The ponds at both sites will be stocked with adult-size channel catfish prior to the event. The information for each event is:
- October 29, 2022 – Parc Natchitoches, 4515 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, LA 71457
- November 19, 2022 – Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, 135 Riverfront St, Pineville, LA 71360
The first 100 youth to register for each event will receive a goody bag, and every participant will be entered into a raffle drawing to win prizes. To pre-register for this event, or for more information visit www.wlf.la.gov/gof. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Anglers 18 and older must possess a valid Louisiana recreational fishing license. Licenses can be purchased at www.LouisianaOutdoors.com.
Beginner Catfishing courses
For anglers looking to sharpen their skills, LDWF is hosting Beginner Catfishing courses as part of the new Fishing Course Series at the event sites. Participants can register for these courses at www.LouisianaOutdoors.com/
- Parc Natchitoches – October 28 – 4:30pm-6:30pm (All Ages) & October 29 – 2:30pm-4:30pm (Ages 16 & older)
- Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site – November 19 – 2:30-4:30pm (Ages 16 & older)
The Get Out &Fish! program is funded by the Sport Fish Restoration Fund, a USFWS grant program that provides grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education.
