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MS Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo returns to Gulfport

By Krystal Allan - bio | email

GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) - The champagne was flowing after news broke of the Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo returning to its roots in Gulfport. The city made the announcement Tuesday afternoon during a news conference.

"It's exciting to be back," Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo President Michael Casano said. "We were here for 57 years and Katrina moved in and removed us from our home. It's exciting to be back."

The Island View Casino's beachside property will serve as the rodeo's temporary host site when it returns next July 1st through the 4th.

Though excited to move ahead, Casano took time to thank those who stepped up to host the event for the past four years. Hurricane Katrina heavily damaged Rice Pavillion and Jones Park, the rodeo's former host sites. In the meantime, the Harrison County Fairgrounds, as well as Biloxi's Point Cadet, served as temporary host sites for the event.

Now that the rodeo's back in Gulfport, Casano said it should be more convenient for everyone to attend.

"Gulfport is such a centrally located spot for the event, providing access for the Hancock County fisherman who are such great participants," Casano said.

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