Elite Fishing Series: Redfish Release & Solo Open Fishing Tournament

Angle your fishing rod towards the first annual Redfish Release and Solo Open Fishing Tournament, where competitive anglers and outdoor lovers come together to participate in the ultimate sport of the Louisiana Gulf Coast.

In Jefferson Parish, the bayous and marshlands beckon with multiple fishing opportunities. Why not celebrate this Louisianan pastime with the redfish catch-and-release tournament? With two-days of contests, live entertainment, swamp tours, and genuine Cajun food, we’re not giving you any excuses to miss this new Jefferson Parish tradition!

Event Details
Elite Redfish Series Highlights

The Redfish Release and Solo Open Fishing Tournament is for all advanced anglers and casual fishing enthusiasts who are interested in participating in a solo competition. At this tournament, sport and coastal conservation come together; catch-and-release activities prevent overfishing the redfish species of the Louisianan Gulf Coast, and there’s nothing better at promoting fishery sustainability than this contest. Come and support the long-term conservation of the redfish species, or put your angling skills to the test by entering the competition.

Event Details

Dates

July 31 - August 2, 2025

Schedule

Thursday

  • Community Pro-am at Bayou Segnette State Park - 6:00 a.m.
  • Weigh-In at Segnette Landing - 2:00 p.m.
  • Eat-Meet-Greet at Segnette Landing (For Both Boaters and Kayak Anglers) - 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Friday & Saturday

  • Launch at Bayou Segnette State Park Safe Light
  • Weigh-In at Segnette Landing - 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location

The Redfish Release and Solo Open Fishing Tournament will be held at Gator Town USA in Westwego (450 Laroussini St).

Admission

Admission to watch the competition is FREE.

Registration

Boater registration for the competition is $650 and the Big Red optional side pot is $350. Register for the event here.

Redfish Catch-and-Release Rules

Creel and size limit - three redfish per day, 18-27”

Elite Redfish Series Highlights

Sustainable Catch-and-Release Fishing

10,000 fingerling redfish will be distributed from the Southern MIssissippi University fish hatchery and Ocean Springs facility into the water at Gator Town USA. With a creel and size limit of three redfish (18 to 27 inches long) per competition day, this tournament showcases sustainable fishing by preventing the overfishing of this species through responsible angling. Witness fishery conservation in action as participants showcase the process of preserving long-term fish populations.

Live Music & Local Food

Get ready for an energetic atmosphere at Gator Town USA as musicians perform during the Redfish Release Open Tournament. Don’t forget to pair the live beats with meals and snacks from local food vendors. Good ol’ Cajun flavors and ingredients are the perfect way to satiate your appetite after participating or watching the competition unfold. We also recommend catching the tournament’s captain’s meeting and dinner as another way to engage with fellow fishing enthusiasts and boaters.

Air & Swamp Boat Tours

There’s more to the event than angling for redfish. Traverse across the gorgeous Bayou Segnette on an air or swamp boat tour. Expect the tall cypress trees and verdant Spanish moss to welcome you as the languid splendor of the Bayou Segnette unveils itself on the tour. Learn about the history of this part of Louisiana, where the environment and centuries of different cultures intersect.

Extend Your Stay

Keep your redfish tournament experience going by booking your stay in Jefferson Parish and exploring other local activities. Flying in? Explore accommodations near the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Fishing doesn’t simply end when the tournament is over in Jefferson Parish. Angling is just a way of life along the Louisiana coast. Explore our guide on local fishing holes and seasonal catches. If you’re feeling hungry after your fishing adventure, find Jefferson Parish’s best seafood restaurants and eateries here. As for more ways to enjoy the water and sunshine, check out our outdoor guide.

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