2026 Entry Form

2nd Annual Arkansas Championship Catfish and Hushpuppy Cookoff Info

Calling all amateur catfish and hushpuppy fry cooks. We will be crowning the First Annual Arkansas Champion Catfish Cook and Hushpuppy Cook on May 31st at Greers Ferry LakeFest 2025. This year the cook-off  is limited to 20 teams so get your entries in early.    Separate trophies will be awarded to the best catfish and hushpuppies prepared. $500 cash prize for best catfish.

 

Schedule: Subject to modification:
Teams can start setting up in cooking area by 9am May 31st with prep and cooking to start at 10am

 

Rules:

1. Judging will be based on fried catfish and fried hushpuppies.  Other cooking methods are not permitted.
2. Teams can consist of up to 4 members
3. Each team will receive 6 fillets that must be cooked on-site.
4. Hushpuppy batter can be prepared offsite but hushpuppies must be cooked onsite
5. Each team must submit both catfish and hushpuppies
6. Each team will submit I catfish fillet and 3 hushpuppies per judge {3 total} for evaluation in a numbered container provide by event to ensure blind judging
7. Turn in will be between 12:00-12:15 pm
8. Each team must provide cookers, heat source, oil, seasonings and utensils to prepare and cook fish and hushpuppies.
9. Each team must provide tent, tables and chairs for cooking set up station

 

Judging:

• There will be a panel of 3 judges and 1 alternate.
• Judges will only know the entries by a team number to ensure blind judging results.
• Judges will score fish and hushpuppies 1-9 on appearance, taste, and texture/crispiness.

 

Entry fee is $25.00 per team

Signing and submitting the form below is your acknowledgment that you have read and understand the rules and judging criteria.