The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association launched its inaugural Big Catfish Photo Contest on Monday, a twist on its annual Best Fish Contest aimed at celebrating catfishing traditions across the Black Belt.
The contest opens May 27 and runs through July 12.
“From the legendary waters of Lake Eufaula along the Georgia line to the catfish-rich currents of Miller’s Ferry and the mighty Tombigbee and Black Warrior rivers, Alabama’s Black Belt is home to some of the finest catfishing in America. Now it’s your turn to show off your catch,” the association said in a news release.
Anglers of all ages may enter photos of catfish caught by rod and reel, jug fishing or noodling for a chance to win an outdoor adventure.
“We’re excited about this fun summer campaign to help promote catfishing tourism and outdoor recreation across the Black Belt,” Pam Swanner, director of the association, said. “Nothing brings people together like a great day on the water. Catfishing in the Black Belt is about more than the catch—it’s about family, tradition and unforgettable moments outdoors. Show us what you’ve got.”
The winner, chosen through online voting, will receive a two-person, half-day guided trip with Bama Noodling in 2027.
Photos and votes may be submitted at alabamablackbeltadventures.org/news-more/shoot-the-black-belt/best-fish-photo-contest/.
Visitors may vote once per day, per entry, per IP address. Entries are subject to approval by the association, and its decisions are final in the event of a dispute.
Photos may be disqualified for depicting unethical or disrespectful treatment of wildlife, creating a negative perception of anglers or conservation efforts, or violating voting rules. Winners of the Best Fish Photo Contest from the past three years are not eligible to win the grand prize.
The association also reminded anglers to follow all fishing laws, including purchasing a valid Alabama fishing license.
“Whether it’s your first catfish or your personal best, every catch deserves its moment in the spotlight,” Swanner said. “Grab your rod and your camera and showcase your memorable catch this summer. Your catfish photo could be the next one everyone’s talking about.”
The Black Belt includes Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox counties.
