Summer is coming to a close, but don’t put away those fishing poles. The St. James Boat Club will be holding their “Annual Jr. Choupique Rodeo” on Aug. 1, on the Blind River Point Area and Boat Launch Areas. All participants, 0 – 15 years old, male or female, are eligible to compete in this fishing rodeo but must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. The fishing starts at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The registration fee is still only 25 cents, which includes a free hot dog and soft drink, and hasn’t changed since first Rodeo. Please be sure to get registered before fishing and to get a copy of the rules. Fishing is restricted to the banks of the Blind River Point Area and Boat Launch Areas but not near bridge area. Awards will be given at the close of Rodeo to the winners and ribbons to all participants. Random drawings in each age group for rod and reels will be held at awards time (winners must be present). Refreshments will be sold at the Point Area. Give your kids the memory of a lifetime, take them fishing. For more information, contact the St. James Boat Club (in the morning times) 225-869-8966 or Craig Calcagno at 225-206-2476.

Jr. Choupique Rodeo Rules

Each child must be accompanied by an adult or guardian and follow these rules.

• All fishing is to start at 9 a.m., not before and end at noon.

•All children must be registered before participating in rodeo.

• Fishing is from the bank only in the designated areas, and no boats are allowed.

• Registered children must weigh in their fish themselves, wearing their I.D. tag, at the weigh in station.

• The contest is open to fish only.

• Each child must furnish his/her own tackle and bait (live or artificial) and pole.

• Everyone practices “Catch and Release” after weigh in. (Weigh Master releases the fish)

• Only fish caught by the children may be weighed in.

• Adults may assist the children fishing only in the 0 – 5 year old age group.

• Adults may also assist children only when having fishing difficulties (hang ups, replace hooks or baits, casting, etc.)

• Awards will be given for the “Largest Fish” and “Most Fish Caught,” in three age groups: 0-5 years old, 6-10 years old, and 11-15 years old.

• Participation ribbons will be given to all children registered.

• Door prizes will be drawn for in each age group and winner must be present.

• Failure to comply with these rules may result in disqualification of participant.