Fishing Trade Shows in North Carolina

North Carolina fishing expos bring together some of the latest equipment and fishing techniques, as well as licensing information and current fishing regulations. Each organization is represented by its own booth where you can sample products, get important information about chartering boats and network with others that share your interest. Fortunately, you don't have to travel far, North Carolina is premium fishing territory, offering native brook trout, river fishing with huge stripped bass or local ponds that are perfect for kids.

  1. Fly Fishing

    • The 2011 Raleigh Fly Fishing Show will be held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds on Jan. 29 and 30. This is the first year the expo will be held in Raleigh and it offers seminars, casting demonstrations at one of the fairground's ponds and exhibit booths with DVDs, books and local artists, all for one admission price ($15 for one day, $25 for two days, kids under 12 for $2 and children under 5 are free). Expo hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.

    Central Carolina Expo

    • For over 25 years the Boat and Fishing Expo operated separately, but in 2010 they joined forces to give Carolinians all of their fishing needs under one roof. The 2011 event will take place in the Greensboro Coliseum from Feb. 25 to 27 and attendees can get information on bass fishing, saltwater fishing or trout fishing, as well as stay updated on the latest boating skills and hard to find products. Expo hours are Friday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets (which are good for all three days) are $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for kids over six.

    Saltwater Fishing

    • The 2011 Bass and Saltwater Fishing Expo takes place Jan. 7 to 9 at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This year brings over 160 exhibitor booths with all of the current fishing knives, saltwater guides, jigs and custom rods. As a part of the 2011 seminar schedule, Mike "Pappy" Jones and Scott "Gunny" Favors, both masters in finesse fishing and swimbait secrets help you improve your technique. If coastal fishing is your thing, Capt. Jimmy Price is one of the many saltwater professionals available for advice. Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $5 for kids 6 to 12 and $7 for seniors 60 and over. Show hours are Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.