La Dept of Wildlife & Fisheries joining veterans fishing rodeo event

FISHING RODEO SPONSORS

reelin for warriors image with infoUnited Way Southwest Louisiana and SWLA Veterans Association Gear Up for the Exciting Second Annual Reelin' For Warriors Fishing Rodeo

Lake Charles, LA—United Way Southwest Louisiana, in collaboration with the SWLA Veterans Association, is proud to announce the second annual Reelin' For Warriors Fishing Rodeo on October 5. This family-friendly event is dedicated to supporting local veterans who need home repairs through a day of fishing, fun and community spirit. Registration can be done online at unitedwayswla.org/fishingrodeo or in person at Lake Charles Tackle and Ship to Shore Co.

The Reelin' For Warriors event invites fishing enthusiasts and supporters from the region to participate in various categories, including 2-man boat teams, kayaks, fishing guides and shore fishing, making it accessible to all skill levels. A youth division also ensures young people can get in on the competitive spirit. Registration is open at United Way Southwest Louisiana's website and in person at Lake Charles Tackle and Ship to Shore Co.

This year’s fishing rodeo will conclude with an awards ceremony and weigh-in at Prien Lake Park, hosted in partnership with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury. Highlight prizes include a Recteq Wood or Pellet Fired Grill donated by Stine, a guided fishing trip by Waltrip Saltwater Guide Service LLC, a kayak gift package from Ship to Shore, a high-quality rod and reel from Lake Charles Tackle and more.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will play a vital role during the event's weigh-in at Prien Lake Park. They will be on-site to collect live fish that will be transported and introduced into the brand-new aquariums at the Port Wonder Science & Nature Center. This innovative collaboration supports the enhancement of local marine education. It emphasizes the importance of conservation and the ecological impact of fishing activities. Additionally, the Department has prepared a series of surprises for young attendees, promising an even more memorable experience for the youth in the Reelin' For Warriors fishing rodeo.

"This partnership not only underscores the event's commitment to fostering a love for the natural world among the next generation of anglers and conservationists but also adds a significant education opportunity," said Denise Durel, President and CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. "Education is the cornerstone of the work being done at United Way, and by incorporating it into this event, we ensure that our impact extends beyond the present, nurturing a future where both our communities and their natural environments can thrive together."

The event also features a youth division with exciting prizes from Urban Air Adventure Park, Petro Bowl and Blue Collar Guy Fishing Adventures, fostering the next generation of anglers.

United Way Southwest Louisiana and the SWLA Veterans Association are excited to unite the community to support a noble cause while enjoying a day of competitive fishing.

Additional sponsors include AdSource, Cumulus Media, Halo, Herc Rentals, Coca Cola and CITGO Petroleum Corporation.

For more details and registration, visit unitedwayswla.org/fishingrodeo.