Bloody Decks Fishing Rodeo

The Bloody Decks Fishing Rodeo draws serious anglers to Grand Isle, Louisiana, for a Memorial Day weekend built around the Gulf’s nearshore bite. As Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, Grand Isle puts you minutes from productive water, with quick runs to the beachfront, Caminada Pass, or the calmer marsh behind the island when conditions turn. You come for results first, then bring your fish back for late afternoon weigh-ins at Wake Side Marina.

Expect early launches, tight timelines, and a competitive field chasing speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. The day’s high point is dockside at the marina, when the weigh-in line forms and the crowd tracks the leaderboard fish by fish. You will hear plenty of post-run talk on tactics and weather windows, but the focus stays on clean execution and a strong box.

Plan for an efficient start by arriving at Wake Side Marina by 6:00 AM, before the ramps and lanes congest. Pack serious sun protection and rain gear, since barrier island weather can shift quickly, and bring a sturdy cooler with ample ice to keep your catch in top condition through the heat. Register early at the marina to secure your place in the official standings, since fees and divisions vary by category and age group, and check marine forecasts daily so you can pivot to protected water if the Gulf gets rough.

Lodging on Grand Isle books out months ahead for the holiday, so lock in a beachfront or Caminada Pass rental early, or widen your search to regional coastal stays and camps via Lake.com. In light rain the rodeo typically continues, but weigh-ins may pause for lightning, and most years include a youth division if you are bringing kids. Parking near the marina is limited, so carpool when you can or walk from your rental, and keep everyone in proper life vests and well hydrated for long hours in salt, sun, and wind.