SATURDAY, APRIL 2, 2016

PRESENTED IN PART BY

Your Adventure. Our Specialty.

Our goal is your goal. We want nothing more than to get you exactly what you need to have an awesome adventure. Where it is, What it is... irrelevant. It could be the dunes of the Sahara, the rivers of Costa Rica, the peaks of Asia, or the deck of a cruise ship, won't change a thing in the way we help get you ready.

Our sta� has probably been anywhere you'd ever want to go and we always start by listening. We don't care if you're a downhill racer or a red point climber. We just want you to enjoy the time you take o�... with your family or your friends.

To help make life a little easier, we've included some checklists for you to use when packing and buying supplies for your personal adventure.

www.masseysout�tters.com

exhibitors

AcademyEast Je�erson CCA

Ernie Elfer ChocolatierGwen Fazende-Artist

Lake Pontchartrain Basin FoundationLouisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries

Louisiana Master Naturalist of Greater New OrleansLouisiana Wildlife FederationMae & Patty Boys Funky Junk

Massey’s Out�ttersNew Orleans Fly Fishers

New Orleans Power SquadronLDNR-O�ce of Coastal Restoration

Pure FishingString A Bead

UNO, Nekton Research LabUptown Angler

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and “Coastie”Wish To Fish Louisiana

awards ceremonyat approximately 11:25 am

Mardi Gras TossWelcome, Special Thanks by Kaye Florane

Awards presented by Capt. C.T. Williams, emceeWish To Fish Winners (with Danica Williams/WTF)

Boats on the Bayou Winners and DrawingBattle for the Bass Winners

Cat�sh/Gar BonusCichlid & Bream Trim

Fly FishingChampions Challenge

Bass - AdultJunior Anglers

Special Award s- Joe Courcelle & Paul Kalman$1 Ra�e Drawings

rodeo committeeKaye Florane, Chairman

Aaron Gelfand, Weigh MasterBecky Chaney, Asst. Weigh Master

Natalie Weiss, Special Events ManagerJulie LaCour, Special Events Director

Capt. C.T. Williams, EmceeJohn Kinabrew

Clint MouserDanica Williams

Janice WoodSpencer & Drew Mullen, Jr. Members

honorary membersMark Schexnayder

Joe Courcelle FamilyPaul Kalman Family

ldwf planning committeeDanica WilliamsBecky ChaneyHeather David

Missy FoxTim Ruth

Gary VitranoBill Hano

Rebecca Hillebrandt

volunteersRobert & Bobbie Blackerby

Marlyn FlannerySusan Landrum

Suzanne ManieriLisa & Joey Musso

Sonya TrebucqJeanette Salone

David & Paula SchindlerBarbara SclafaniCarolyn SouhlasMaesie Palazzo

Patsy Bates

Wish To Fish LouisianaDanica Williams, Director

Yvette CressonTony Dunbar

Clarence LuquetAshley Williams

Capt. C.T. WilliamsPayton Williams

Droppin’A Line

Great progress has been made since 2002 when I �rst joined the Big Bass Committee. At that time, attendance was low and the Rodeo quality waning. New committee membersbreathed life into this great old Rodeo and hopefully the Rodeo’s founder, Paul Kalman, is smiling down at us from Heaven.

The Rodeo maintains a steady attendance exceeding 500 registrants each year. The Fishtival was expanded to include more exhibitors and vendors plus the ra�e tables are awesome! We added Boats on the Bayou in 2014 allowing kayaks, canoes, etc to �sh for saltwater species in Bayou St. John. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries became our partners in presenting the Rodeo adding great depth to exhibits and providing support to the weigh stations with aerated tubs, proper release techniques, etc. This year LDWF will introduce a new category Battle for the Bass High School Fishing Competition. The Big Bass Rodeo continues to grow!

A BIG thanks to the committee members, NOCP and LDWF sta�, Wish To Fish members and volun-teers over the years for your time and hard work. Your participation is greatly appreciated! It has been my pleasure to be Chairman. For all anglers, go out and catch some �sh and enjoy the nation’s oldest fresh water �shing rodeo!

Kaye Florane, Rodeo Chairman

a special thanks!!

Munch FactoryPelican Car Wash

CostcoSam’s Club

Baker’s DozenAmanda Musso

John BeshDrago’s

LaMadeleine LA 23 BBQ

Faux PasStaples Sporting Goods

Sweetwater BrewingProfessional Sports

Duvic’s Demartino’s Restaurant & DeliEl Mesquite Restaurant

Salon Naj-Carla MontalbanoKrispy KremeJanice Wood

One Smart Cook Co. - Gretna

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) works hard to make sure City Park’s Big Bass Fishing Rodeo is successful. From the time a �sh is caught until it is released, LDWF is there to assist both anglers and �sh alike. Their biologists serve as weigh masters, provide aerated tubs to safely hold live �sh, and re-release the �sh back into City Park’s lagoons after the tournament. LDWF is equally devoted to �shing education and provides hands on learning opportunities for all ages at the rodeo’s Fishtival. Through activities such as casting lessons and a live animal touch tank, LDWF encourages the public to take part in a great Louisiana pastime while demonstrating the responsible use of Louisiana’s aquatic resources.

LDWF’s in�uence in City Park is not just limited to the Big Bass Fishing Rodeo. LDWF biologists continually monitor the �sh populations and water quality to help protect Louisiana’s valuable natural resources. Successful management of �sh stocks in City Park allows the department to maintain a popular urban �shing spot in New Orleans.

In conjunction with the Big Bass Rodeo, LDWF introduced Battle for the Bass to all high school students in Louisiana. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with Berkley to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state.

a special thank you to thelouisiana department of wildlife & fisheries,

our partners in the rodeo!

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

Team Rio Grande used to be a category in the Big Bass Rodeo. Fishing teams of up to 10 anglers would compete to catch hundreds of cichlids for bragging rights and trophies. Clad in camou�age, bright yellow shirts or other colorful attire, team members would bring in buckets of cichlids, each trying to beat the infamous Team Camo. Then in the 2014 rodeo not even Teams Camo or Stop, Drop & Reel could �nd many cichlids. Where are the cichlids? Did a really cold winter impact their population? Did stocking with larger bass help? No complaints-this is a good thing.

According to Dr. Martin O’Connell, Director of the Nekton Research Laboratory at the University of New Orleans, Rio Grande Cichlids (a non-native invasive �sh to southeastern Louisiana) has been targeted by Big Bass Rodeo participants for the past few years. The goal is to reduce the numbers of these destructive �shes such that native species such as Largemouth Bass and Bluegill can better prosper. Often the Cichlids will compete with the native species for nesting habitat and food resources. While it is encouraging that we have seen fewer Cichlids in City Park during recent Big Bass Rodeos, be aware that these invaders are still present and (unfortunately) expanding their range out of the Greater New Orleans Metropolitan Area. Currently, there is no quick �x to altogether eliminate Cichlids. For now, the best approach for the sake of our native �shes is to remove as many cichlids as possible from our waterways and keep their populations as low as possible until (hopefully) a solution can be found somewhere in the future. So keep removing Cichlids from City Park, Bayou St. John, and anywhere else in Louisiana and keep �ghting the �ght to protect our native game �shes.

where are the cichlids?

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

kudos to wish to fish louisiana!

In 2009, Wish To Fish La. joined the Big Bass Rodeo & Fishtival o�ering a children’s section with casting lessons, how to throw a cast net and a casting contest. Having become a very popular section of the Fishtival, children delight in the competition and chance to win a trophy as well as onstage recognition.

Wish to Fish Louisiana is a non-pro�t that was organized to get kids o� the streets, out the house, away from the television and video games and back into the great outdoors. Danica Williams started Wish to Fish knowing that some children lack the resources to experience outdoor activities such as boating and �shing. In her heart she felt she could and should make this happen for as many individuals as possible. So, in 2006, with the help of many wonderful volunteers, the �rst event was planned and turned out to be a great success. Since then the Wish to Fish crew has organized three to four events per year giving 1,000’s of children opportunity to experience one of the greatest hands-on outdoor education programs. This program builds self-con�dence, teaches environmental awareness and appreciation for nature through outdoor activities such as �shing. Visit www.wishto�shla.com for information or call 504-628-7282.

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

big bass rodeo historyBy Kaye Florane

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

Paul Kalman, 1946

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

Mike Laviolette, 8/24/15 Kurt Wul�, 12/25/15

A special thanks to Paul Kalman Jr. for use of his father’s photo.

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

city park big bass fishinghall of fame

1946Nick Gianopulos

1947 Joe FreyDenis RupinEd FrazierJoe MohrJoe Marino

1948L.W. FarringtonAlbert KurucarR.W. DabbsP.D. BanvilleA.J. SmithBill Wiem

1949Mr. FrazierMaurice LabordeSgt. J.C. HendrickJames LesterSal NuccioV.A. Quarterman

1950W.J. Songy Jr.Anthony RadostaSam J. TrambinoToby MooreFred. M. Keese

1951P. Joseph RohrVincent RadostaVictor BaresHenry MirandaAnthony BlasiniLeonard Walle

1952Sal Lofaso

1953Bill SullivanGeorge F. HallnerTed Lala

1954Pvt. Shelby L. WilsonLloyd F. DoleseW.H. ShermanA.B. StrattmanC.J. LaneRene Chapotel

1955Jerry VadenbarreAlbert J. JewellLouis A. MirandaE.A. SonierWilliam A. MeyersThomas A. JewellCharles P. CrosbyJoe FreyFred M. Keese

1956Warren BourgeoisR.J. BishopSidney Clement Jr.Ed CoshowJoseph GerosaHerbert SaleWillis BoudreauxA.J. Smith

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

1957Doug McIntoshJohn PicoloClyde CoombsMorris FieldsElwood SchmittWilliam RankinG. W. PersevauxJ.E. BushRobert James

1958Records Missing

1959Bill RobertsAllen SmithV.J. CangiamillaC.J. RuckertLouis FornierW. A. MyersDenis SchaftAnthony BacinoDoug McIntosh

1960Gary DerocheCli� KuncarPatrick FontenotLouis ParettiJoey BuckStanley PlanchardJohn SeeleyJack AveryAllen Smith

1961 & 1962Records missing

1963Albert CareyDickey MiguezNash RobertsMichael SperandeoRoy T. BostickAlvin RoyesDr. S.M. EmersonE.L. TregreBarry Weinstein

1964James McGovern Jr.Bob ClarkeEddie BlanchardO.E. GwunnM. StasserDarryl DelernoRobert HessV.J. CangiamillaMichael SpreandeoE. L. Tregre

1965Emile WhitakerLuther Chavers Jr.Emille PerillouxWayne HessDonald RodrigueEddie WolchGeorge Sclafani Jr.Casey KilianEd Stacy Jr.

1966Lloyd Gervais Jr.Barry Dru�nerLester LeBlancWilliam MartinelLuther Chavers Jr.Casey KilianEd Stacy Jr.

1967Stanley PlaucheJe� KuncarAllen SmithGary DerocheCli� KuncarPatrick FontenotLouis ParettiJoey BuckJohn SeeleyJack Avery

1968Records missing

1969Will HarperFrank MaggioNorman BrooksSid Reggio Jr. Monroe Meyers-Raymond DubyRobert BahlGary DerocheJoey Buck

1970Joey RobertMarion HessF. Killian Jr.Milton BerryS. BlackledgeGene RodrigueJohn SeeleyMonroe Meyers

1971Marcel CourtladeKeith SeeleyJoseph GrantBob ArcherRoy DuplantisAllen SmithMonroe MeyersMarion Hess

1972Ronald GaudinMichael LizarragaEugene ZitzmanHerbert ChampagneRonald SmithCharles Rutla�Ruben MangerJoel StokesRoy Duplantis

1973Dennis BroughyMrs. John SeeleyNorm GregwareRonnie BeechlerTheodore BuckCiro PalermoGeorge RicksJohn SeeleyMarion Hess

1974Jimmie GeleRoslind FrancisChvus CancienneCharles MartinoRuben FrancisDwight DavisJoel Stokes

1975Mike StieglerRichard GreenlandRaymond ReaMarcel GarsaudJohn SeeleyMonroe MeyersMarion HessRonald Beechler

1976Ted PavlovichBill MoodyRobert ThibodeauxJoey RobertMarion HessJoel StokesRonald Beechler

1977Timmy HillEmile GodfreyMartin BuresteinGreg HartmanDavid StokesJoe LovoiButch ZimmerJohn SeeleyMonroe Meyers

1978Butch LuscoRandy WhiteFrank HibsCraig Navarre-James CoquetDanny LuscoMonroe MeyersJoey RobertMarion HessDavid StokesButch Zimmer

1979Dennis WickboldtJohn DominguesMonroe MeyersJoey RobertMarion HessRonald BeechlerRobert Thibodeaux

1980 Wayne GuteliusDennis SweeneyJoey RobertRuben FrancisJames CoquetMonroe Meyers

1981Gordan WattsLois GuteliosJennifer BeechlerBill NelsonDavid FieldsWayne HessJoes StokesRonald BeechlerJames Coquet

1982Gary CrowsonMr. LuscoMonroe Meyers Jr.Joel StokesRon ThibodeauxDavid Fields

1983J. L. SmithRobert CantinDavid CarterSteward BeattyMilton JunkerWalter CannonWayne HessJoey RobertDennis Wickboldt

1984Henry ShepardRich SauvageMichael MirandaEddie FullerA.J. MonroeMonroe Meyers-Joel StokesRobert ThibodeauxDavid Fields

1985Joseph AmedoTom KnowerEarl CassidyPhillip SweeneyWayne HessMonroe MeyersJoey RobertRuben FrancisDennis Wickboldt

1986Emmani DuchmannTerry CotoyaRobert GallowayAnthony ConzonereA.J. MeyerWayne Hess

1987David BiriGerald NavarreJames MullooySid SmithFrank WickboltLloyd HebertFred J. PeppermanJames Coquet

1988Thomas LarriviereLance TempletCharles GerardEd LafoucadeGerald CrainKenneth McArthurAllen ChautinJoe Matis Jr.Eddie D'Aunoy Sr.Robert NorrisJoel Stokes

1989Harvey BreauxGerald JohnsonEarl BonieJames CaramiatRobin GiarussoJerry ThomasHelen BowzigardMark MeunierChris FontanaLogan JacksonAndres MulletEmile Godfrey

1990Wayne FontanaDonald Ho�manPaul CougetCorey WagnerRobert BayhiPatrick SweeneyMyles MartinDennis CouvillionDaryl TiceBruce OhlmeyerJim Hyatt

1991Mr. FontanaRobert ButlerMr. ArlsenMr. MeyersSteve DelkRobert ClavinRay KahoutekMike CarvigliaHarold HelbeckRory RorisonAlvin RoyesRickey Kibert

1992Brian Ho�manLeonard RayJeremy BuissonMonroe Meyers IIIRegan LeopoldAndrew StakelumChris FaustJason BilnoskiMichael WelchRobert LabatJe�rey CheramieKelley WilliamsRory Rorison

1993Kenny GaglianoScott RigheySteve RigertGilbert ScalesSteve BourguardBill MuraJames TheriotSean BradfordBrett HessGary NunemacherCraig NavarreMack HasenkampfJered NortonMichael CassioMonroe Meyers III

1994Spinning1st-Larry Madere2nd-Jason Menesses3rd-Raymond BrimFly1st-Keith Brock2nd-Lisa Johnson3rd-Robin GiarrusoCasting1st-Scott Fitzpatrick2nd-Gil Cambre3rd-Patrick JohnsonPaul Kalman AwardEvan SmithBream Busters1st-Max Zimmer, IV2nd-Clyde Maddox3rd-Mike Hasenkampf

1995Mr. MartinMr. RileyAllen McKevittMr. LavarineAdam GuilminoSparky LongGil CambreKeith OsborneGordon WattsBrett HessBruce NorciseKevin CoxSteve ErsekStevie LynnGlen Tamborella

1996Mr. HasenkampsMr. RauchDavid BinAllen McKevittRoger PoirierClaude GuinotMr. CallenScott BrownRon AbadieCorey AssavedsoRodney BaehrEd BraudStevie L. Bavarre

1997Adam GuilminoT. J. (Anthony) MalletteHenry PoirierLee McLeanStefan SchmidtEvan SchmidtJ. RayMad MexicansJoey DiCarloCorey DavisLou BarousseAaron ToupsBig Yellow

1998G. Mike JohnsonPeter Hopkins Jr.Adam GulminoOliver PichonAnthony RobinoJesse DavisMark FalgoustPaul MonistereMike DvorakJoseph HunterMichael TrombinoChris FelderRodney Baehr

1999David BiriBig YellowPatrick JohnsonSteve SandersonHenry Poirier Jr.Robert CantinAl Kuchler IIIRobin GiarrussoJoseph BoeWalter DaigleCharles P�ster VCub Scout PakRobert Clavin

2000Mr. RauchLou BarousseKeith LusherDavid MonistereJohnny HeintzHarold J. HellbachPatrick NunezJohn WeberMark MisuracaZachary PhillipsThomas A Rouzan Jr.Matt Pipin

2001Johnny Cefalu Sr.Tony TonguisJohn SeelyBryan WoodScott RauchRene' DandryStephen SalassiWade BernardJohn ReyesClarence Johnson Jr.Daniel NevarezEddie OrdemannRobert Clavin

2002Anthony MikeWally BurkhardtRandy ChatelainLou BarousseJacob WolfeDustin FifeRiess TuckerMichael & Melani BordelonKarl NetzhammerJoshau GilmoreJohn, Ryan, Aus ReyesAislin & Sean St. SalassiScott RauchKevin & Shane Jones

2003SpinningMichael Simon Jr.Derek SmithThomas BronkCastingClara GoodwinDustin Ne�Rickie ViadaFlyKeith BrockLeo Moore IIIKeith LusherPaul Kalman AwardJoseph Trosclair

2004SpinningCharles DufreneBrandon, KephartMaximo Vasquez Jr.CastingWalter DaigleGeorge GirardDarryl F. Delerno Jr.FlyRenee GaitanLeo MooreKeith Lusher Jr.Paul Kalman AwardBrandon Kephart

2005Casting1st-Jacques Grenier2nd-Brett Estinopal3rd-David HaydelFly1st-Leo Moore2nd-Ralph Lito�3rd-Robert CalvinSpinning1st-Charlie Conforto2nd-Richard Martin3rd-Henry PoirierBream Busters1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Voodoo3rd-Nyles HughesCasting Kids7-10 years Johnny Heintz11-13 years Chad BabinChampions ChallengeJoel StokeGarFishMark TerrioPaul Kalman AwardRichard Martin

2006 & 2007Rodeo cancelled due toKatrina aftermath

2008Casting ContestAges 6-81st-Spencer Mullen2nd-Cole Dimaggio3rd-Eli Larriviere

2008Ages 9-121st-Blake Chiquet2nd-Ory Stemley3rd-Bradley MarshallRio Grande1st-Team Camo (961 �sh)2nd-Cichlid Assassins3rd-Team PIPBream1st-Matthew Martin (8oz)2nd-David Beach III (3oz)3rd-Holden Je�reys (3 oz)Bass-Cast1st-Jerrold Pedesclaux 3lb 4oz)2nd-Alvin Davis 2lb 5oz)3rd-Mitch Rogers (2 lb 2 oz)Bass-Fly1st-Ralph Litol� (3lb 4oz)2nd-Brett Undemstock (1lb 2oz)3rd-NoneBass-Spin1st-Cary Smith (2lb 13oz)2nd-Paul Phelan (2lb 10oz)3rd-Lou Barousse 2 lb 0 oz Paul Kalman AwardPaul Phelan

2009Casting ContestAges 6-81st-Jay Rowell2nd-Spencer Mullern3rd-Nyron PeteAges 9-121st-Taylor Brown2nd-Adrianna Bailey3rd-Sebastian CarpenterAges 13-171st-D.J. Rebstock2nd-Stephen Kent3rd-Dwight ClarkCat�sh Kids1st-Zion Wilcox2nd-Corey Hirstius3rd-Jacob AuthementTeam Rio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Henderson3rd-Team Say LavieJunior Anglers1st-Peyton McQueen2nd-Patrick Rowell3rd-Emily MunchChampions ChallengeLarry MadereBass-Fly �shing1st-Rene Gaitan2nd-Phillip Stepka3rd-noneBass-Baitcasting1st-Billie Frazier2nd-John Lupo3rd-Brett UmbendenstockBass-Spinning1st-Gabriel Davis2nd-Kathie Keller3rd-Lloyd CarterPaul Kalman AwardHunter Galmiche

2010Casting Contest1st-Robert Henderson2nd-Gregory Plaia3rd-Aaron WilmothJunior Anglers1st-Adrianna BaileyCat�sh Kids1st-Kristen Melton2nd-Dominic PellegrinBass- Fly1st-Ramon Gaitan2nd-Drew Mullen3rd-Sean GilthropeBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-David White2nd-Darryl Delerno3rd-George GirardChampions ChallengeLarry MaderePaul Kalman AwardDonald Meyer III

2011Casting ContestAges 6-101st-Ava Schexnayder2nd-Dillion Muro3rd-William HarperAges 11-151st-Drew Mullen2nd-Kenneth Haad3rd-Spencer MullenJunior Anglers1st-Kristen Melton2nd-Jack Henderson3rd-Hunter BouchieTeam Rio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Obrien3rd-Team JohnsonBass-Fly1st-Drew Mullen2nd-Daymond BushBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-Corey Alonzo2nd-George Girard3rd-Kenneth MadereChampions ChallengeLeo MooreJoe Courcelle AwardCorey AlonzoPaul Kalman AwardNicolas Tamberella

2012Casting ContestAges 8-121st -Je� Frazier2nd-Vance DeAgano3rd-William HudlowAges 13 and up1st-Aavon Wilmoth2nd-Drew MullenJunior Anglers1st-Matthew West2nd-Trey Schaub3rd-Madison BaileyRio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Hackarakis3rd-Stop,Drop & ReelBass by Fly �shing1st-Eric StacyBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-Damion Frey2nd-Tony Tonguis3rd-Orion HollisChampions ChallengeCary SmithJoe Courcelle AwardDamion FreyPaul Kalman AwardBrent Rodriguez

2013Casting ContestAges 6-101st-Dillon Droulet2nd-Josh Nguyen3rd-Dillon MeltonAges 11-151st-Khalil Mohamed2nd-Aaron Wilmoth3rd-Logan BabinJunior Anglers1st-Mikayla Lacoste2nd-Hannah Schwegmann3rd-John ShcwegmannRio Grande1st-Team CamoBass-Fly1st-Shawn Henderson2nd-Josh Roth3rd-John EngertBass-Spinning1st-Gary Martin2nd-Joe Richard3rd-Mike LavioletteChampions ChallengeRon AbadieJoe Courcelle AwardGary MartinPaul Kalman AwardEvan Sauvage

2014Master CastersDaniel CangemiJackson AudibertLillian ScallanRory CraftBOATS ON THE BAYOUTrashbashJoseph GrandeBassIan WigginsTroutSteve NeeceCatch-a-GarTeam MuchosJunior Anglers1st-John Schwegmann2nd-Hunter Thomasie3rd-Hunter EasonFly Fishing-BassGale RhodesChampions ChallengeJoel StokesBass-Adult1st-Robert Myers2nd-Phil Kent3rd-Mike LavioletteBass-Youth1st-Joseph Finger2nd-Christopher Menard3rd-Jace Oulliber

2015WISH TO FISH - MASTER CLASSICS1. Chris Cangemi2. Skylar Billot3. Anna Fioellala4. Gavin Hinchman5. Dillon McTopy6. Nathan Buras7. Steven BuldinBOATS ON THE BAYOUBass1st Devon Beltz 2.95lbs2nd Chris Hood 1.70lbs3rd Luke Beslin 1.39 lbsTrashbash1st Maurice Valerio – Blue Gill .30lb2nd Tyler Gabriel – Blue Gill .15lb3rd Eric Muhoberac – Pogie .12lbBIG BASS RODEOJunior Angler1ST Hannah Schwegmann – Blue Gill .34lb2nd Brooklyn Schneider – Blue Gill .25lb3rd Jackson Audibert – Blue Gill .25lbCichlid & Bream Trim - Team Event1st Team Camo – 5.67lbs2nd Golden Crickets – 3.88lbs3rd Stop, Drop, and Reel 3.70lbsFly Fishing1st Bass – John Latta 2.70lbsChampions Challenge1st Damion Frey 2.60lbBass - Adult1st Joseph Roy, III 5.34lbs (Joe Courcelle Award)2nd George Girard Jr. 3.29 lb3rd Jessica Vallejos, 3.03 lbsBass - Youth1st Nicholas Heintz 1.38lbs (Paul Kalman Award)2nd Craig Miller 1.23lbs3rd Jace Oulliber 1.08lbs

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

1946Nick Gianopulos

1947 Joe FreyDenis RupinEd FrazierJoe MohrJoe Marino

1948L.W. FarringtonAlbert KurucarR.W. DabbsP.D. BanvilleA.J. SmithBill Wiem

1949Mr. FrazierMaurice LabordeSgt. J.C. HendrickJames LesterSal NuccioV.A. Quarterman

1950W.J. Songy Jr.Anthony RadostaSam J. TrambinoToby MooreFred. M. Keese

1951P. Joseph RohrVincent RadostaVictor BaresHenry MirandaAnthony BlasiniLeonard Walle

1952Sal Lofaso

1953Bill SullivanGeorge F. HallnerTed Lala

1954Pvt. Shelby L. WilsonLloyd F. DoleseW.H. ShermanA.B. StrattmanC.J. LaneRene Chapotel

1955Jerry VadenbarreAlbert J. JewellLouis A. MirandaE.A. SonierWilliam A. MeyersThomas A. JewellCharles P. CrosbyJoe FreyFred M. Keese

1956Warren BourgeoisR.J. BishopSidney Clement Jr.Ed CoshowJoseph GerosaHerbert SaleWillis BoudreauxA.J. Smith

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

1957Doug McIntoshJohn PicoloClyde CoombsMorris FieldsElwood SchmittWilliam RankinG. W. PersevauxJ.E. BushRobert James

1958Records Missing

1959Bill RobertsAllen SmithV.J. CangiamillaC.J. RuckertLouis FornierW. A. MyersDenis SchaftAnthony BacinoDoug McIntosh

1960Gary DerocheCli� KuncarPatrick FontenotLouis ParettiJoey BuckStanley PlanchardJohn SeeleyJack AveryAllen Smith

1961 & 1962Records missing

1963Albert CareyDickey MiguezNash RobertsMichael SperandeoRoy T. BostickAlvin RoyesDr. S.M. EmersonE.L. TregreBarry Weinstein

1964James McGovern Jr.Bob ClarkeEddie BlanchardO.E. GwunnM. StasserDarryl DelernoRobert HessV.J. CangiamillaMichael SpreandeoE. L. Tregre

1965Emile WhitakerLuther Chavers Jr.Emille PerillouxWayne HessDonald RodrigueEddie WolchGeorge Sclafani Jr.Casey KilianEd Stacy Jr.

1966Lloyd Gervais Jr.Barry Dru�nerLester LeBlancWilliam MartinelLuther Chavers Jr.Casey KilianEd Stacy Jr.

1967Stanley PlaucheJe� KuncarAllen SmithGary DerocheCli� KuncarPatrick FontenotLouis ParettiJoey BuckJohn SeeleyJack Avery

1968Records missing

1969Will HarperFrank MaggioNorman BrooksSid Reggio Jr. Monroe Meyers-Raymond DubyRobert BahlGary DerocheJoey Buck

1970Joey RobertMarion HessF. Killian Jr.Milton BerryS. BlackledgeGene RodrigueJohn SeeleyMonroe Meyers

1971Marcel CourtladeKeith SeeleyJoseph GrantBob ArcherRoy DuplantisAllen SmithMonroe MeyersMarion Hess

1972Ronald GaudinMichael LizarragaEugene ZitzmanHerbert ChampagneRonald SmithCharles Rutla�Ruben MangerJoel StokesRoy Duplantis

1973Dennis BroughyMrs. John SeeleyNorm GregwareRonnie BeechlerTheodore BuckCiro PalermoGeorge RicksJohn SeeleyMarion Hess

1974Jimmie GeleRoslind FrancisChvus CancienneCharles MartinoRuben FrancisDwight DavisJoel Stokes

1975Mike StieglerRichard GreenlandRaymond ReaMarcel GarsaudJohn SeeleyMonroe MeyersMarion HessRonald Beechler

1976Ted PavlovichBill MoodyRobert ThibodeauxJoey RobertMarion HessJoel StokesRonald Beechler

1977Timmy HillEmile GodfreyMartin BuresteinGreg HartmanDavid StokesJoe LovoiButch ZimmerJohn SeeleyMonroe Meyers

1978Butch LuscoRandy WhiteFrank HibsCraig Navarre-James CoquetDanny LuscoMonroe MeyersJoey RobertMarion HessDavid StokesButch Zimmer

1979Dennis WickboldtJohn DominguesMonroe MeyersJoey RobertMarion HessRonald BeechlerRobert Thibodeaux

1980 Wayne GuteliusDennis SweeneyJoey RobertRuben FrancisJames CoquetMonroe Meyers

1981Gordan WattsLois GuteliosJennifer BeechlerBill NelsonDavid FieldsWayne HessJoes StokesRonald BeechlerJames Coquet

1982Gary CrowsonMr. LuscoMonroe Meyers Jr.Joel StokesRon ThibodeauxDavid Fields

1983J. L. SmithRobert CantinDavid CarterSteward BeattyMilton JunkerWalter CannonWayne HessJoey RobertDennis Wickboldt

1984Henry ShepardRich SauvageMichael MirandaEddie FullerA.J. MonroeMonroe Meyers-Joel StokesRobert ThibodeauxDavid Fields

1985Joseph AmedoTom KnowerEarl CassidyPhillip SweeneyWayne HessMonroe MeyersJoey RobertRuben FrancisDennis Wickboldt

1986Emmani DuchmannTerry CotoyaRobert GallowayAnthony ConzonereA.J. MeyerWayne Hess

1987David BiriGerald NavarreJames MullooySid SmithFrank WickboltLloyd HebertFred J. PeppermanJames Coquet

1988Thomas LarriviereLance TempletCharles GerardEd LafoucadeGerald CrainKenneth McArthurAllen ChautinJoe Matis Jr.Eddie D'Aunoy Sr.Robert NorrisJoel Stokes

1989Harvey BreauxGerald JohnsonEarl BonieJames CaramiatRobin GiarussoJerry ThomasHelen BowzigardMark MeunierChris FontanaLogan JacksonAndres MulletEmile Godfrey

1990Wayne FontanaDonald Ho�manPaul CougetCorey WagnerRobert BayhiPatrick SweeneyMyles MartinDennis CouvillionDaryl TiceBruce OhlmeyerJim Hyatt

1991Mr. FontanaRobert ButlerMr. ArlsenMr. MeyersSteve DelkRobert ClavinRay KahoutekMike CarvigliaHarold HelbeckRory RorisonAlvin RoyesRickey Kibert

1992Brian Ho�manLeonard RayJeremy BuissonMonroe Meyers IIIRegan LeopoldAndrew StakelumChris FaustJason BilnoskiMichael WelchRobert LabatJe�rey CheramieKelley WilliamsRory Rorison

1993Kenny GaglianoScott RigheySteve RigertGilbert ScalesSteve BourguardBill MuraJames TheriotSean BradfordBrett HessGary NunemacherCraig NavarreMack HasenkampfJered NortonMichael CassioMonroe Meyers III

1994Spinning1st-Larry Madere2nd-Jason Menesses3rd-Raymond BrimFly1st-Keith Brock2nd-Lisa Johnson3rd-Robin GiarrusoCasting1st-Scott Fitzpatrick2nd-Gil Cambre3rd-Patrick JohnsonPaul Kalman AwardEvan SmithBream Busters1st-Max Zimmer, IV2nd-Clyde Maddox3rd-Mike Hasenkampf

1995Mr. MartinMr. RileyAllen McKevittMr. LavarineAdam GuilminoSparky LongGil CambreKeith OsborneGordon WattsBrett HessBruce NorciseKevin CoxSteve ErsekStevie LynnGlen Tamborella

1996Mr. HasenkampsMr. RauchDavid BinAllen McKevittRoger PoirierClaude GuinotMr. CallenScott BrownRon AbadieCorey AssavedsoRodney BaehrEd BraudStevie L. Bavarre

1997Adam GuilminoT. J. (Anthony) MalletteHenry PoirierLee McLeanStefan SchmidtEvan SchmidtJ. RayMad MexicansJoey DiCarloCorey DavisLou BarousseAaron ToupsBig Yellow

1998G. Mike JohnsonPeter Hopkins Jr.Adam GulminoOliver PichonAnthony RobinoJesse DavisMark FalgoustPaul MonistereMike DvorakJoseph HunterMichael TrombinoChris FelderRodney Baehr

1999David BiriBig YellowPatrick JohnsonSteve SandersonHenry Poirier Jr.Robert CantinAl Kuchler IIIRobin GiarrussoJoseph BoeWalter DaigleCharles P�ster VCub Scout PakRobert Clavin

2000Mr. RauchLou BarousseKeith LusherDavid MonistereJohnny HeintzHarold J. HellbachPatrick NunezJohn WeberMark MisuracaZachary PhillipsThomas A Rouzan Jr.Matt Pipin

2001Johnny Cefalu Sr.Tony TonguisJohn SeelyBryan WoodScott RauchRene' DandryStephen SalassiWade BernardJohn ReyesClarence Johnson Jr.Daniel NevarezEddie OrdemannRobert Clavin

2002Anthony MikeWally BurkhardtRandy ChatelainLou BarousseJacob WolfeDustin FifeRiess TuckerMichael & Melani BordelonKarl NetzhammerJoshau GilmoreJohn, Ryan, Aus ReyesAislin & Sean St. SalassiScott RauchKevin & Shane Jones

2003SpinningMichael Simon Jr.Derek SmithThomas BronkCastingClara GoodwinDustin Ne�Rickie ViadaFlyKeith BrockLeo Moore IIIKeith LusherPaul Kalman AwardJoseph Trosclair

2004SpinningCharles DufreneBrandon, KephartMaximo Vasquez Jr.CastingWalter DaigleGeorge GirardDarryl F. Delerno Jr.FlyRenee GaitanLeo MooreKeith Lusher Jr.Paul Kalman AwardBrandon Kephart

2005Casting1st-Jacques Grenier2nd-Brett Estinopal3rd-David HaydelFly1st-Leo Moore2nd-Ralph Lito�3rd-Robert CalvinSpinning1st-Charlie Conforto2nd-Richard Martin3rd-Henry PoirierBream Busters1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Voodoo3rd-Nyles HughesCasting Kids7-10 years Johnny Heintz11-13 years Chad BabinChampions ChallengeJoel StokeGarFishMark TerrioPaul Kalman AwardRichard Martin

2006 & 2007Rodeo cancelled due toKatrina aftermath

2008Casting ContestAges 6-81st-Spencer Mullen2nd-Cole Dimaggio3rd-Eli Larriviere

2008Ages 9-121st-Blake Chiquet2nd-Ory Stemley3rd-Bradley MarshallRio Grande1st-Team Camo (961 �sh)2nd-Cichlid Assassins3rd-Team PIPBream1st-Matthew Martin (8oz)2nd-David Beach III (3oz)3rd-Holden Je�reys (3 oz)Bass-Cast1st-Jerrold Pedesclaux 3lb 4oz)2nd-Alvin Davis 2lb 5oz)3rd-Mitch Rogers (2 lb 2 oz)Bass-Fly1st-Ralph Litol� (3lb 4oz)2nd-Brett Undemstock (1lb 2oz)3rd-NoneBass-Spin1st-Cary Smith (2lb 13oz)2nd-Paul Phelan (2lb 10oz)3rd-Lou Barousse 2 lb 0 oz Paul Kalman AwardPaul Phelan

2009Casting ContestAges 6-81st-Jay Rowell2nd-Spencer Mullern3rd-Nyron PeteAges 9-121st-Taylor Brown2nd-Adrianna Bailey3rd-Sebastian CarpenterAges 13-171st-D.J. Rebstock2nd-Stephen Kent3rd-Dwight ClarkCat�sh Kids1st-Zion Wilcox2nd-Corey Hirstius3rd-Jacob AuthementTeam Rio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Henderson3rd-Team Say LavieJunior Anglers1st-Peyton McQueen2nd-Patrick Rowell3rd-Emily MunchChampions ChallengeLarry MadereBass-Fly �shing1st-Rene Gaitan2nd-Phillip Stepka3rd-noneBass-Baitcasting1st-Billie Frazier2nd-John Lupo3rd-Brett UmbendenstockBass-Spinning1st-Gabriel Davis2nd-Kathie Keller3rd-Lloyd CarterPaul Kalman AwardHunter Galmiche

2010Casting Contest1st-Robert Henderson2nd-Gregory Plaia3rd-Aaron WilmothJunior Anglers1st-Adrianna BaileyCat�sh Kids1st-Kristen Melton2nd-Dominic PellegrinBass- Fly1st-Ramon Gaitan2nd-Drew Mullen3rd-Sean GilthropeBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-David White2nd-Darryl Delerno3rd-George GirardChampions ChallengeLarry MaderePaul Kalman AwardDonald Meyer III

2011Casting ContestAges 6-101st-Ava Schexnayder2nd-Dillion Muro3rd-William HarperAges 11-151st-Drew Mullen2nd-Kenneth Haad3rd-Spencer MullenJunior Anglers1st-Kristen Melton2nd-Jack Henderson3rd-Hunter BouchieTeam Rio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Team Obrien3rd-Team JohnsonBass-Fly1st-Drew Mullen2nd-Daymond BushBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-Corey Alonzo2nd-George Girard3rd-Kenneth MadereChampions ChallengeLeo MooreJoe Courcelle AwardCorey AlonzoPaul Kalman AwardNicolas Tamberella

2012Casting ContestAges 8-121st -Je� Frazier2nd-Vance DeAgano3rd-William HudlowAges 13 and up1st-Aavon Wilmoth2nd-Drew MullenJunior Anglers1st-Matthew West2nd-Trey Schaub3rd-Madison BaileyRio Grande1st-Team Camo2nd-Hackarakis3rd-Stop,Drop & ReelBass by Fly �shing1st-Eric StacyBass - Spin, Baitcast1st-Damion Frey2nd-Tony Tonguis3rd-Orion HollisChampions ChallengeCary SmithJoe Courcelle AwardDamion FreyPaul Kalman AwardBrent Rodriguez

2013Casting ContestAges 6-101st-Dillon Droulet2nd-Josh Nguyen3rd-Dillon MeltonAges 11-151st-Khalil Mohamed2nd-Aaron Wilmoth3rd-Logan BabinJunior Anglers1st-Mikayla Lacoste2nd-Hannah Schwegmann3rd-John ShcwegmannRio Grande1st-Team CamoBass-Fly1st-Shawn Henderson2nd-Josh Roth3rd-John EngertBass-Spinning1st-Gary Martin2nd-Joe Richard3rd-Mike LavioletteChampions ChallengeRon AbadieJoe Courcelle AwardGary MartinPaul Kalman AwardEvan Sauvage

2014Master CastersDaniel CangemiJackson AudibertLillian ScallanRory CraftBOATS ON THE BAYOUTrashbashJoseph GrandeBassIan WigginsTroutSteve NeeceCatch-a-GarTeam MuchosJunior Anglers1st-John Schwegmann2nd-Hunter Thomasie3rd-Hunter EasonFly Fishing-BassGale RhodesChampions ChallengeJoel StokesBass-Adult1st-Robert Myers2nd-Phil Kent3rd-Mike LavioletteBass-Youth1st-Joseph Finger2nd-Christopher Menard3rd-Jace Oulliber

2015WISH TO FISH - MASTER CLASSICS1. Chris Cangemi2. Skylar Billot3. Anna Fioellala4. Gavin Hinchman5. Dillon McTopy6. Nathan Buras7. Steven BuldinBOATS ON THE BAYOUBass1st Devon Beltz 2.95lbs2nd Chris Hood 1.70lbs3rd Luke Beslin 1.39 lbsTrashbash1st Maurice Valerio – Blue Gill .30lb2nd Tyler Gabriel – Blue Gill .15lb3rd Eric Muhoberac – Pogie .12lbBIG BASS RODEOJunior Angler1ST Hannah Schwegmann – Blue Gill .34lb2nd Brooklyn Schneider – Blue Gill .25lb3rd Jackson Audibert – Blue Gill .25lbCichlid & Bream Trim - Team Event1st Team Camo – 5.67lbs2nd Golden Crickets – 3.88lbs3rd Stop, Drop, and Reel 3.70lbsFly Fishing1st Bass – John Latta 2.70lbsChampions Challenge1st Damion Frey 2.60lbBass - Adult1st Joseph Roy, III 5.34lbs (Joe Courcelle Award)2nd George Girard Jr. 3.29 lb3rd Jessica Vallejos, 3.03 lbsBass - Youth1st Nicholas Heintz 1.38lbs (Paul Kalman Award)2nd Craig Miller 1.23lbs3rd Jace Oulliber 1.08lbs

2015 Boats on the Bayou

Trashbash Winners

2015 Joe Courcelle AwardJoseph Roy

2015 2nd place Bream Trim Winners

Team Golden Crickets

Paul Kalman, a local who spent many hours of his childhood �shing the tree-framed waters of City Park, founded the Big Bass Rodeo in 1946. For Kalman and many others, it was an angler’s urban heaven. The only requirements were a hook, line, length of cane and a lazy summer afternoon.

After being injured in service in World War II, Kalman conceived the idea of an annual �shing competition, planting the seeds of what would become City Park’s Big Bass Rodeo. A reporter for the New Orleans Item at the time, Kalman persuaded his bosses to sponsor the

inaugural event. Armed with a meat scale borrowed from John Schwegmann’s original grocery store, the �rst rodeo was launched in 1946. Under his guidance, the rodeo grew to draw as many as 1,000 participants. Although Kalman passed away in 1986, shortly after the rodeo’s 40th anniversary, his legacy lives on today with the Paul Kalman award. His son Paul Jr. and grandson present this award to the angler 12 years or under that lands the largest bass.

In the 1980’s Joe Courcelle introduced catch-and-release to the rodeo. He built a 400-gallon tank and asked �shermen to turn in their live catch, which he returned to the lagoons. Joe served as Weigh Master for more than 30 years until 2010 when he stepped down for health reasons. Joe passed away shortly after that and the Joe Courcelle award was created to honor his years of service to the Big Bass Rodeo. This award is given for the largest bass landed by anyone 13 years or older.

When the federal levees failed during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, parts of the Park �ooded up to eight feet of water. The �shing environment was devastated and the Big Bass Rodeo could not be held in 2006 and 2007. Thanks to e�orts from many organizations including LSU AgCenter/Sea Grand, University of New Orleans, La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries and others, the lagoons and �sh habitat were restored. In 2008, the rodeo returned and reclaimed its rightful spot as the country’s oldest freshwater �shing tournament with more than 600 registrants vying to win a trophy and bragging rights in �ve �shing categories.

In recent years, the “Fishtival” was added to the rodeo, bringing music, �shing gear and charter boat ra�es and educational exhibits for wildlife, ecology, conservation, boating, and a casting contest for children.

The Boats on the Bayou division for kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized vessels on Bayou St. John was added in 2014. Fishing categories include largemouth bass, trout, red�sh and other species for trophies and a chance to win a Hobie �shing kayak.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries whose goal is to protect and manage the abundant natural resources in the state has done a wonderful job of maintaining the �sh stock in the Park’s lagoons and in Bayou St. John. They also play a big role at the Big Bass Rodeo by providing the scales to weigh the lunker bass, the aerated tubs to hold the stock, and the employees to safely release the �sh after the tournament. Their various educational exhibits attract anglers of all ages and are a big draw to the Fishtival. In recent years, LDWF has become a partner in presenting the Big Bass Rodeo.

In 2016, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries introduced a new �shing category-Battle for the Bass. This new category o�ers high school students an opportunity to compete for a large trophy to bring back to their school along with bragging rights for an entire year. LDWF is working with the Berkley High School Fishing Club program to promote �shing in schools and increase the number of �shing clubs throughout the state. Each student from the top three teams will bring home a Battle for the Bass plaque. All high school students are invited to participate in this event.

The largest �sh ever caught in City Park was a 52-pound bu�alo �sh hauled in on July 21, 1976 by 12-year-old Tommy Descant of Chalmette. In February 2005, Ross Reboul, a junior at Jesuit High School, landed a giant 44-pound Blue Cat�sh. This giant cat�sh measured 42-inches long and 26-inches in circumference. Biologists believe this giant cat�sh was approximately 21 years old! In 1968, City Park boatman Cecil Doiron caught a bass weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. which held the Park record until February 12, 2013 (Mardi Gras day) when Kevin Schilling landed a 9-lb. 0 oz. lunker bass to break Cecil’s record. On August 14, 2013, Tim Zissis set the new record catching a 9-lb. 0.05 oz. bass. 2013 was the year for big bass in City Park!

The Park lagoons continue to yield big bass. On August 24th, 2015, Mile Laviolette, an avid and experienced Park �sherman, caught a 9 pound 3 ¾ ounce bass that would have set a new record had it been weighed on o�cial scales. Good news is that Mike released it for someone else to catch! A near 10-pounder was caught on Christmas day 2015 by Kurt Wul� which was also released. Either of these �sh if caught at the 2016 Big Bass Rodeo will de�nitely set a new record at City Park.

State Farm®Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Home O�ce, Bloomington, Illinois 61710

Manny Hidalgo, Agent3837 Macarthur BlvdNew Orleans, LA 70114-6871Bus 504 362 1919 Fax 504 368 1111manny.hidalgo.a04m@statefarm.com

24 Hour Good Neighbor Service®

Clinton (Clint) R. Mouser 504 454-0153 BusinessRegional Leader 504 887-8475 Residence 504 439-0792 MobilePrimerica 504 885-1501 Fax4200 S I-10 Service Rd W cmouser.sj564@primerica.comSuite 201Metairie, LA 70001

• Fresh & Saltwater Lures• Big Game Tackle• Ri�es - Shotguns - Pistols• Hunting & Fishing Clothing• Archery

Tony Puglia’s Sporting Goods, Inc.www.Puglias-Sporting-Goods.com

1925 Veterans Memorial Blvd. • Metairie, LA 70005 • 504-837-0291

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT®FOR HEALTHY LIVINGFOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

6691 Riverside DriveMetairie, LA 70003(504) 888-9622

(504) 835-7554www.baileyinstitute.com

BAILEY INSTITUTEOF

MUSCULAR THERAPY

What can seven members of the Rummel �shing club, one dad, and two members of New Orleans Fly Fishers get done on a Saturday morning? A lot! Clad in wader boots and armed with shovels and rakes, this group of energetic guys cleaned a shoreline and waterway along one section of New Orleans City Park's lagoons.

It may come as a surprise to some, but City Park's lagoons and bayous o�er some of the best bass �shing in the state. By removing obstructions, such as fallen trees, palm branches, and �oating grass mats, this cleanup team has helped improve water �ow and water quality of the vestige of Bayou Noir. Bayou Noir is a scenic bayou paralleling Wisner Boulevard, just south of Harrison Avenue. It was �rst sited in an early French priest’s journal traveling Bayou St John to New Orleans. Today, Bayou Noir boasts several open areas great for �y �shing.

The Big Bass Rodeo is the nation’s oldest and largest freshwater �shing rodeo and this year will be held on April 2nd. John Kinabrew, a long time Big Bass Rodeo committee member, is excited about this year's rodeo preparations. "Isn't it amazing what ten caring people can get done in 4 hours work", says Kinabrew. "A Saturday very well spent" and Kinabrew is sure that the improved waterways will yield some record breaking bass at this year's rodeo.

shoreline cleanup

Map courtesy of Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries

BIG BASS RODEO• Registration• Fishtival• Awards

Anglers 16and older mustpossess a valid�shing license.

NO FISHING ON FUTUREGOLF COURSE

NO FISHING ON FUTUREGOLF COURSE

DeSaix Blvd.

NO FISHING ONGOLF COURSE

NO FISHING INSCULPTURE GARDEN

CLOSED!Boats on the Bayou

�shing closedsouth of Harrison Ave.

Harrison Avenue

Boats on the BayouFilmore Weigh Station

Filmore Avenue

NO FISHING ON FUTUREGOLF COURSE

Parking

Restroom

Fishing Pier

Trails

Road

ImprovedShoreline

Fishing

No Fishing

• LDWF is responsible for �sheries management in New Orleans City Park lagoons. The goal of urban �sheries management is to provide and enhance recreational �shing opportunities.

• Since 1999, LDWF has stocked the lagoons with many species of �sh including largemouth bass, yellow bass, sun�shes, channel cat�sh, and blue cat�sh.

• The invasive Rio Grande cichlid* was �rst spotted in 1996 and has become more common in City Park’s lagoons.

• Most aquatic vegetation problems are controlled by salt water entering City Park Lagoons from Bayou St. John.

• There are 11 miles of lagoons and 22 miles of shoreline throughout the 1,300 acre park.

• Average depth of the lagoon system is 3 feet.

*Species must be killed immediately upon capture.

City Park History(Relative to LDWF)

Sporting Goods

www.chags.com

Ray Chagnard - Owner4740 Veterans Blvd.

Metairie, LA 7006

Sam Romano - ManagerPhone: (504) 455-8636

Fax: (504) 455-0106

(504) 454-2000101 Clearview PkwyMetairie, LA 70001

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