The Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo is the oldest fishing tournament not only in the United States, but in the world. Terrebone Parish President and President of the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo Jason Bergeron emphasized that the now 97-year-old fishing tournament has a storied history and will be fun for people of all ages. This weekend, the event kicks off once again in Grande Isle and will feature music, food, fun, and plenty of fishing for enthusiasts to partake in.
While the prized tarpon is highly sought after, fish of all shapes and sizes will be on display as anglers take to the Gulf waters. However, you don’t have to be a fishing expert to get in on the fun. Bergeron actually predicts the turnout to be around 50/50 when it comes to actual fishing enthusiasts vs those who are there to simply eat good food, listen to good music, and enjoy themselves with friends. “One thing I love about what we do in south Louisiana is that we like to throw a party, have a good time, and we like to do it all for a good cause,” Bergeron told WWL’s Dave Cohen. Proceeds generated from the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo will be benefitting Grand Isle students and going toward scholarships for graduating seniors, according to Bergeron.
There is a $10,000 cash prize for the grand prize winner of the rodeo and there will be food, beverages, and entertainment for attendees of all ages. Bergeron highlighted a crab race that will be taking place at the event.
Children choose a crab they think will be quick (or lucky) and enter it into the big race, with prizes to be given out to the winners. The Grand Isle International Tarpon Rodeo kicks off on July 24th and runs until Saturday, July 26th.
Details on musical acts, events, and entry can be found at https://tarponrodeo.org/