The PCB Fishing Rodeo returns to Panama City Beach October 3–11, 2026, for nine days of fishing, diving, family activities and competition, with $32,000 in cash prizes up for grabs. Hosted by the Bay County Artificial Reef Association (BCARA), this year’s Rodeo offers opportunities for everyone from seasoned offshore anglers and divers to families introducing their children to fishing for the first time.
The Rodeo kicks off October 3 with a special tribute to the late Jim Krawczynski, former owner of the beloved Blue Top Waffle Shop. BCARA is proud to honor his memory by naming its annual youth fishing clinic the Jim Krawczynski Kids Fishing Clinic.
The free clinic will be held Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is open to the public. Every participating child will go home with a free fishing pole and the fundamental knowledge of casting, baiting and knot tying. Children will learn about marine life at the St. Andrews Touch tank and enjoy activities like cast net throwing and rod and reel casting challenges.
Competition runs throughout the week with divisions for Bluewater, recreational and charter fishing, recreational and charter diving, head boats and land-based anglers, including those fishing from kayaks, piers and jetties.
The Rodeo scales will be open 10 a.m.–7 p.m. The scales are open daily, giving the public an opportunity to stop by and watch the day’s catches come in. On the final day, Sunday, October 11, scales close at 5 p.m.
All registered participants are required to attend the Captain’s Meeting Friday, October 2, at 5:30 p.m. at Capt. Anderson’s Event Center. Doors open at 4 p.m. for contestants interested in entering the optional Calcuttas.
The celebration gets even bigger during the final weekend when the Panama City Beach Seafood Festival, October 9–11, runs in conjunction with the Rodeo.
Register by September 14 to receive a free official 2026 PCB Fishing Rodeo T-shirt.
The PCB Fishing Rodeo is more than a competition—it supports BCARA’s mission to create and deploy artificial reefs, enhance marine habitat and strengthen fishing and diving opportunities in Bay County.
For registration and complete Rodeo information, visit pcbfishingrodeo.com and follow the PCB Fishing Rodeo on Facebook for daily updates and prizes.
RSS
