Busch Light Fishing Family Rodeo Returns to Pensacola Beach This Weekend

Pensacola, FL (NewsRadio 92.3) -- One of the oldest fishing tournaments in the Gulf of Mexico is back on Pensacola Beach this weekend — and Pensacola Sports Association President and CEO Ray Palmer says it is one of the most family-friendly events on the summer calendar.

The Busch Light Fishing Family Rodeo runs Friday June 19th through Sunday June 22nd at the back porch of Flounders on Pensacola Beach right at the dock. The tournament has a 55-year history in the region and was originally started by local fishing legend Louis Barron before Pensacola Sports acquired it more than a decade ago. Palmer says it has since become one of the organization's signature events.

Anyone Can Fish

You don't need a boat or an offshore charter to participate. Shore fishing and pier fishing are both welcome and Palmer says kids are some of the most enthusiastic competitors — catching pinfish and croakers, bringing them to be weighed, throwing them back, and doing it all over again. Kids fish free with a paid adult. The tournament features more than 20 species ranging from inshore redfish, speckled trout, and flounder to offshore red snapper, king mackerel, and cobia. There are also special Calcuttas and prize opportunities throughout the weekend.

A display area features fish that anglers donate for viewing with experts on hand to explain species and where they are caught. Palmer says it is not unusual for visitors simply relaxing on Flounders beach to wander over when a 25-pound red snapper comes in.

Weekend Schedule

Tonight's captain's meeting kicks off the tournament with a free fried fish dinner at Flounders on the beach. Saturday and Sunday fishing continues with weigh-ins and activities throughout the weekend at the Flounders dock on Pensacola Beach.

Registration and full details are available at PensacolaSports.org.