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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 way to their favorite fishing holes.

Anglers travel from across the country to compete, fish and weigh in. After two days, the top five will move on to Saturday’s final day weigh-in.

Championship Saturday kicks off on March 23 at 1 to 5 p.m. at Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center with a Free Family Day and Outdoor Expo, which includes live Cajun music by Jude Moreau and Bon Temps Playboys from 1-3 p.m., an Outdoor and Marine Expo, Community Vendors and food for purchase by Piggin’ Out Pork-A-Bobs and Romero’s Grill & Catering.

Live weigh ins begin at 3 p.m.

“We’ve seen tremendous growth of the leisure 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 filmed for the Discovery Channel.

The episode will air on a Sunday morning this fall. After the Discovery episode, the episode will air multiple times on regional sports networks.

“Our Port Arthur tournament is a spring event, which can throw anglers a curve ball when it comes to weather,” said Pat Malone, Elite Fishing Series owner and show host. “But these guys are pros and will take on even Mother Nature to hold the championship trophy.

“We are hoping for a great family turnout to cheer on the anglers in our eighth season. Come and taste what caused the governor’s office to officially designate Port Arthur as the Cajun Capital of Texas,” Malone said.

Look for 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
• Museum of the Gulf Coast
• Visit Port Arthur/ Sea Rim State Park with summer travel inspiration on 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 info
• Cajun Heritage Festival info on 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 careers
• 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
• East Texas Safe Floor
• Bolton Jeep Dodge Ram