Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Announces Participation in Fishing Tournament

I grew up in Abbeville, just minutes away from Don's Boat Landing in Henry.  We could have our fishing gear packed, boat readied and launched, and reach the bay in less than an hour from our home. 

And at least one weekend a month, during season, we would pack up the van and head to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge for crabbing and fishing, which provided not only food for our family, but great times together, and, ultimately, great memories.

It also provided the opportunity for our parents to teach us a few things about wildlife conservation:  knowing when to make sacrifices for the good of others.  Case in point:  when we would catch fish (and as a kid, you want to keep EVERY fish you catch!!), Dad would  tell us "Great fish!!  But, we have to put it back".  Disappointing words to an 8-year-old.  After the explanation of "the regulations state that this fish isn't big enough to keep" and "let it get bigger, so it can have babies, and then everyone will have more fish to catch later", the 'big picture' was painted for me.  It soon became important to me that we enjoy our Sportman's Paradise, but, in turn, make sure that it remains enjoyable for future generations.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is helping get people on the water for some great fishing by tagging and releasing some Specs for a fishing tournament.   Here are the details, outlined in this press release sent to us by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries:

With Labor Day right around the corner, now is a great time to hit the water and reel in that big fish for your chance at thousands in cash and prizes during one of Louisiana's many fishing tournaments. Anglers can get in on the action now during the Geaux Fish tournament, which ends September 5, 2011.

This summer, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries helped release 50 tagged speckled trout in waters from Lake Calcasieu to Breton Sound for Geaux Fish. Each tagged fish, when caught by an angler, is worth one of 50 prizes, including:

 
• A grand prize worth up to $250,000,
• A new 2011 Ford F-150 Supercab,
• A 2011 Blazer Bay 2170 boat and trailer,
• Three individual cash prizes of $5,000 each, or
• 44 other remaining cash prizes and big ticket items.

 

 

Anglers fishing with a registered Louisiana charter boat captain can increase their winnings by up to 10 percent, totaling a possible $275,000.

Haven't yet purchased your recreational fishing license yet this year? Click here to buy your license today.

 

Grab the gear (don't forget your life vests!!), hit the water, and enjoy our Louisiana!

(Via LDWF)