Free Family Day, Elite Fishing Series coming to Port Arthur
Published 12:16 am Sunday, March 10, 2024
- Host Pat Malone interviews pro angler Mark Robinson in 2023 in Port Arthur. (Photo courtesy of Callie Summerlin)
Port Arthur is thrilled to welcome The Elite Fishing Series and the frogg toggs Elite Solo Tour, March 21-23, for an action-packed, three-day tournament.
The Brecknell Elite Kayak Tour will join the pros for an exciting weigh-in from those who paddle, pedal or push their favorite fishing holes.
Anglers travel from all over the country to compete, fish and weigh in. After two days, the top five will move on to the final day of weigh-ins on Saturday.
Jeremy Reeves caught two redfish before his win at the 2023 Championship Saturday in Port Arthur. (Photo courtesy of Callie Summerlin)
Championship Saturday begins March 23 from 1 to 5 pm at the Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center with a Free Family Day and Outdoor Expo, which includes live Cajun music by Jude Moreau and the Bon Temps Playboys from 1-3 pm, an Outdoor and Marine Expo, Community Vendors and food available for purchase by Piggin’ Out Pork-A-Bobs and Romero’s Grill & Catering.
Live weigh in starts at 3 pm
“We have seen tremendous growth in the recreational fishing market as we continue to partner with the Elite Fishing Series, America’s number one professional saltwater series,” said Tammy Kotzur, Port Arthur Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director.
This tournament is being filmed for the Discovery Channel.
The episode will air on Sunday mornings this fall. After the Discovery episode, the episode will air multiple times on regional sports networks.
“Our tournament in Port Arthur is a spring event, which can throw anglers a curve ball when it comes to weather,” said Pat Malone, owner of the Elite Fishing Series and host of the show. “But these guys are pros and will beat even Mother Nature to hold the championship trophy.
“We are hoping for a great family turnout to entertain anglers in our eighth season. Come and experience what has led to the official designation of the governor’s office in Port Arthur as the Cajun Capital of Texas,” said Malone.
Find family fun and food trucks including booths from:
- Piggin’ Out Pork-A-Bobs
- Romero’s Grill and Catering
- Jude Moreau and the Bon Temps Playboys
- East Texas and Gulf Rail Modelers Association with train display
- Gulf Coast Museum
- Visit Port Arthur/ Sea Rim State Park with summer travel inspiration at area attractions
- Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center with birding/nature display
- Saltwater Anglers League of Texas
- Henna Tattoos by Laila
- Port Arthur Yacht Club
- United Way of South and Mid Jefferson County, local garden and fishing tournament information
- Information on the Cajun Heritage Festival April 6 event in Port Arthur
- Port Arthur Public Library
- Port Arthur International Seafarers’ Center with mission/volunteer materials
- Seafarers’ International Union with displays on local seafaring races
- Premier Yamaha of Beaumont
- American Flag Airboat Marsh Tours
- Waterloo Rods Live Redfish Tank Experience and Waterloo Rods Trailer
- Boy Scouts of America
- L&L Lures
- Safe Floor of East Texas
- Bolton Jeep Dodge Ram
