It's Show Time

[Billfish715]

The Saltwater Fishing Expo is coming to the NJ Convention and Exposition Center in Edison this weekend. The weather is supposed to cooperate and like hungry bears coming out of hibernation, anglers should be ready for a chance to shake the winter malaise.

The seminars are always good if you are looking to glean a few secrets and techniques from the pros. There are some good deals to be had and many chances to check out some charters and fishing destinations. Many of the booths will be manned by factory and sales representatives from the major tackle companies. If you want to see what's new for this year, this is your chance.

There will be tackle merchants from some of the NJF.com sponsors and other independents. Many of the questions you have about a product or just fishing in general can be answered by a knowledgable professional. If you think you have all of the answers you can always hang around the beer garden and hold your own seminar.

Hear what Paul Hebert and Dave Carraro have to say about their tales from Wicked Tuna. Meet noted author and fisherman Nick Honachefsky. Hear what Fred Gamboa has to share at the Shimano booth. When Fred ever stops telling his stories, you can ask the rest of the Shimano Pro Staff to show off their product line. If you still want to hear more stories and check out their tackle, find the Tsunami team and talk to Captain Nick Cicero and Gerry Gomber.

There will be lots of familiar faces at the Expo and it's a great way to get ready for the upcoming season. Parking is a big problem but there are shuttles from the outer lots. There are daily Costa sunglass giveaways and Sunday is family day when the first 100 children 11 or younger get a rod and reel for free.

If you are a boater or yaker there are products for you. Go to
SPORT SHOWS.COM for more about the show. This is the area's only chance to experience everything saltwater. Maybe you can score an autograph from Gerry. You never know who you'll meet.

Did I mention the pickles? Put it on your calendar. The show starts Friday at noon.