Wildwood Fishing & Boating Expo Underway

It’s show time!

Kicking off the winter “show season” for anglers and boaters, is the Eighth Annual Wildwood Fishing and Boating Expo being held at the gorgeous Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk in Wildwood.

Besides being totally sold out of vendors, the hot news is that “The Biggest Little Expo” is now three days in duration, running Friday through Sunday afternoon. Heretofore it had been a Saturday and Sunday event. Crowded parking lot and crowded aisles.

Something had to give.

Says show owner/promoter Gerry Vessels, “It’s (the Expo) been growing every year exhibitor and attendee-wise, and after the success of last year’s event, I was approached by many of the vendors, especially the boat dealers, about extending the show. Working closely with the Convention Center, I was able to add a Friday afternoon and early evening. Yeah, this is the Biggest Little Expo for sure!”

He ain’t lyin’!

There are 14 boat dealers in attendance, with multi-dozens of floats on display, including the likes of Cape Horn, Key West, North Coast, Nautic Star, Sea Pro, Regal, Barletto Pontoons, Sunchaser, et al. Wave runners, trailers...if you want to be on the water, this is the opportunity to sign on the dotted line as there are deals to be had and, most importantly, all manufacturer rebates, discounts and warranties are in effect.

“Buy in January, be on the water by June,” says Vessels.

Maybe earlier as per the matter of the chatter I’m hearing from dealers who are already experiencing an uptick is sales heading into this weekend’s Expo.

Nearly 100 vendors covering the likes of all sorts of fishing tackle, custom rods, reels and lures, The Fisherman Magazine, top-to-bottom, marine services, nautical art and jewelry, marine electronics, apparel, cutlery, charter and party boats, exotic fishing destinations, towing services...well, you get the idea.

It’s packed!

Did I mention the free seminars from some of the best in the business? The Saturday and Sunday seminar schedule includes topics such as Boating Do’s and Dont’s by the NJ State Marine Police, Trophy Togging, Jigging Tilefish, Offshore Tuna Fishing, Jigging Fluke...the schedule/hosts is available at fishingexpowildwood.com.

Oh. One other thing: a Yeti 65 cooler (retail value $349.99) will be given away every day of the show. Winner need not be present.

Show hours are Friday: 1-7 pm; Saturday 9 am-6 pm; Sunday 9 am-2 pm. Adults: $10; youngsters 6-13: $3; those 5 and under free.

Parking is free.

‘Tis the Show Season! See you there!

To learn more about the Eighth Annual Wildwood Fishing & Boating Expo, visit the January 4 Rack & Fin Radio Show on 973espn.com. Host Tom P. and Gerry Vessels and his daughter Abigail jam about the event.