Outdoors show season begins for lots to enjoy
It's not déjà vu, but rather outdoor history repeating itself in a newer form.
I'm referring to the 2016 Chicago Sportsmen Show, which opens its doors Jan. 20 at the Donald Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. Actually, there are four shows under the same roof.
One $10 ticket gets you in to see the Chicagoland Gun Show, the Chicago Fire and Ice Show, the Hot Sauce Expo, as well as the extra-large Chicago Outdoors Sports Show (where you'll find all the fishing). Children younger than age 11 are admitted free.
This seems to be the largest fishing-oriented exposition since the present management company took the over at the helm.
The main show runs from Wednesday (Jan. 20) through Sunday (Jan. 24).
For you muskie afficionados, a superb muskie panel has been put together.
The Hawg Trough is back with casting and lure demonstrations. American Fly Fishing Schools is offering Kids Fly Casting instruction. There will also be a 3-D archery range, as well as the Kids Zone, and the Wild World of Animals.
I've been told that this show boasts the biggest collection of fishing and outdoor retailers. That in itself is the indicator to bring cash for the new rods and reels and stock up for the spring.
Special programs include a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, on Saturday, Jan. 23 to celebrate Youth Conservation Awareness and Kids Day, presented by Illinois DNR director Wayne Rosenthal. He'll cut a ceremonial ribbon to open the doors to the 37th annual event on Saturday. Director Rosenthal will be in the ICF (Illinois Conservation Foundation) booth from 10 a.m. to noon to meet attendees.
Premier logging sports entertainment group Timber Tina's World Champion Lumberjills will present "Chics with Axes."
Spence Petros and captain Bernie Frueh, the redfish and tuna specialist, will conduct a joint seminar (check the schedule).
One of the interesting aspects of this winter show is I always get a chance to meet old friends and catch up on what has transpired in their lives the previous year, especially when it comes to catching big fish.
And if you're looking for a fishing vacation spot, there will be lodges and resorts on hand as well.
News and notes:
• The All Canada Show starts Thursday at Pheasant Run in St. Charles. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and free to children age 17 and younger. For more details, visit allcanada.com.
• The Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo, featuring more than 100 travel-related exhibitors, takes place Jan. 28-31 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. Admission is $12 for adults and $3 for children ages 5 to 11. Children younger than age 5 are admitted free with a paying adult. For more information and tickets, visit sportshows.com/chicago.
• There is safe ice on some southern Wisconsin lakes. Lake Windigo in Racine County has produced nice bluegill and crappie action.
• Lake Michigan perch action is spotty at the 87th St. Slip, as well as at 79th St.
• Contact Mike Jackson at angler88@comcast.net, catch his radio show 7-9 a.m. Sundays on WGCO 1590-AM (live-streamed at www.1590WCGO.com) and get more content at mikejacksonoutdoors.com.