78th annual Mississippi Fishing Rodeo returning to South Mississippi

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV) –With the Fourth of July holiday just days away, one of the Mississippi Coast’s most popular summer traditions is getting ready to cast off.

Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo President Richard Valdez said, “A lot of tradition here. A lot of families that come through this event, and that’s the first thing they say. I may not have been here in a few years, but I’m back and it’s like a family reunion. You’re always gonna run into someone you know at the rodeo.”

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a fun weekend with the family, the Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo has something for everyone. Anglers of all ages can head out on the water, showcase their fishing skills, and compete for record-breaking catches.

And this Gulf Coast tradition has something for everyone, vendors, carnival rides, food, live music, and of course, the Princess Scholarship Pageant. “We have the entertainment out on the stage. The Journey tribute rock show, afterwards Amanda Shaw. Saturday, we have stars and the fireworks, and of course we have our princess pageant on Sunday. So, just a big group of things for the family to do. We are a very family oriented event.”

Saltwater and freshwater fishing are eligible for the rodeo. Young fishermen and women can also join in the fun during the Landry Fore Memorial Fishing Tournament, which is open to children ages 4 to 12.

“We usually have about 250 kids bring a fish in. This year we’re giving away rod and reels to the first, I think, 1 or 200 of them that’s coming in, that they’ll receive. Those kids, they may bring in a small fish, but to them it’s a big shark. And then, of course, if they bring in something and their father doesn’t, they have to live that down for a whole year.”

The Mississippi Fishing Rodeo will take place Thursday, July 2nd through Sunday the 5th. Gates will open for visitors and weigh-ins at noon each day and close at 6 p.m. and 4 p.m. on the final day.

Before heading out, be sure to review all of the rodeo’s rules and regulations online. Organizers say some updates have been made this year, so it’s important to know the latest guidelines before casting your line.

For more information about the rodeo, click here.