Well it is that time of year again for the sports shows to start popping up all across the country.  Here in the Northwest our two big outdoor shows are the Sportsmen’s Show in Puyallup, WA and the Sportsmen’s Show in Portland, WA.  This is your opportunity to see new products for 2012, as well as to look for outdoor experiences for 2012 and 2013. 

Manufacturers such as Dick Nite Spoons, Okuma, G-Loomis, Abu Garcia, Yakima Bait and more have factory representatives on hand to showcase their new products and answer your questions.  If you are in the market for an outdoor experience, this show is the place to be.  Outfitters and guides are here with information on big game hunts, fishing charters, and more.  Many of these outfitters and fishing guides have specials you will only find at the show. 

Here are a few tips for you, whether you are new to the show or you come every year.  Think about what you want to do for the upcoming year or what you may be interested in purchasing.  This is your chance to get more information!  There are some manufacturers who will not sell you product at their booth.  They are here to show you what their company has introduced for this year.  Most importantly, these factory reps are very willing to answer your questions and provide the best information available.  There are some manufacturers who will have product for sale.  If they have what you want, be ready to get it.  I have seen savings of up to 60% on products at the show.  When the show is over the special price is gone and you will have regrets later in the year. 

Maybe you have one or more of everything and you do not need to buy anything.  This is still the opportunity to talk to reps and see if there are upgrades or improvements to the products you already own.  It is also your opportunity to give your feedback on the product to the factory reps. 

If you are looking for an outdoor excursion this is where you will get the information.  Almost all of the charter, guide and outfitter booths have the head guide or outfitter on hand to answer your questions.  Many of these guys do not display prices, so ask.  Ask them about any specials they might have.  If something is out of your price range, see if they have cancellation specials closer to the season or opportunity.  Many of these charters and outfitters will have cancellations and will offer the trip to you at a substantial savings, which can be as much as 60 percent!

If you are looking for a boat specific to fishing, this is where you want to be.  The boat shows are great for everything boats, but this is where you find the boats specific to fishing.  Bass boats, sleds, and drift boats!  Make sure you stop by and see Riv-Tech Drift Boats in the Pavilion.  These guys have the lightest, strongest drift boat on the market.  This manufacturing technology is unbelievable and the drift boat is bullet proof!

The outdoor industry is at the show to help you.  Come visit us!  Ridge to River Outdoors is in booth 443 in the Pavilion, across from Toyota Trucks.  The Washington Sportsmen’s Show is in Puyallup, Washington at the fairgrounds.  Parking is free!  Hours are Wed, Thu, Fri noon to 8pm, Sat 10am – 8pm and Sun 10am – 4pm.