Starting on Thursday, and continuing thru Saturday, it's the 21st annual Sowbug Roundup at Baxter County Fairgrounds in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm each day. Admission is $5 and covers all 3 days, under 12 free. Sponsored by the North Arkansas Fly Fishers, Sowbug is the foremost gathering of fly tyers from across the country. There's also seminars, vendors, casting instruction, vendors, and more. For more info, go to www.northarkansasflyfisher.org.
On Saturday, it's the 71st annual New Orleans City Park Big Bass Rodeo & Fishtival. The nation's oldest freshwater tournament includes divisions for conventional bass, fly rod bass, team rio, kayak (Boats on the Bayou) and more. Exhibitors and tying demonstrations by the New Orleans Fly Fishers. Fishing begins at 6:30am with weigh-in at 11:00am. Entry fee is $10 adults, $5 ages 12 and under. Online registration available, on-site registration at the Casino (Coffee Call) from 6:00am to 8:30am. For more info, go to www.neworleanscitypark.com.