There’s got to be more of a reason to go to a fishing show than dropping some dough on parking and admission and buying overpriced beer. Over the past couple of years, I’ve found attending shows like the one that’s happening this weekend in Grand Rapids to be very helpful as a growing angler. Here are 5 things to consider to make the most of the time at the show:

1. Plan your time out. Look at the seminar speakers ahead of time and plan on attending the one that will help you become a better fisherman for the fish/body of water you are learning. A couple years ago I went and listened to Lance Valentine and I learned a lot about fishing the Detroit River.

2. Get hands on. Shows are a great place to actually see and touch products that you have been investigating online during the hardwater months. Displays are set up so that you can ask questions and interact with products. I’m going to spend a lot of time at the Garmin booth because I want to master my electronics. Come with questions - be a nerd like me and write them down. Come out and see Panoptix livescope.

3. Find a deal. Many of the top companies like Garmin and Okuma work with vendors like Frank’s Great Outdoors to offer show specials. I go with a specific product in mind and if I find a good deal, I buy it.

4. Learn about local MI tackle companies and experience the quality of the products. I fell in love with Old Fart Lures products after the first show I saw them at because their stuff is just that good. You don’t see this level of quality in mass produced stuff - and I would argue that Carl’s stuff isn’t that much more expensive - and the quality is worth the couple extra pennies. Visit OFL’s booth to stock up on Detroit River jigheads and all the bass and walleye stuff you’ll need to make this year the best year yet.

5. Check out the boat layouts. I fell in love with Skeeter years ago, but I finalized the style of boat I wanted for my guide business at the last show. I got to open every compartment and see the quality and design. Again - that’s the whole point of going to a show - to see and touch the actual product. There’s nothing like being able to talk to an expert in a field - so come with questions!

Hope to get a chance to meet you at the show this weekend! Stop by the Garmin booth and I will be there! Hope this helps you make the most of a show you choose to attend! Thanks!