The newly renamed Calgary Boat and Outdoors Show is Southern Alberta’s biggest outdoor show and it is only a few weeks away. The Show runs February 7-10, 2019 at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park and features everything for the outdoor enthusiast all under one roof.
“Check out all the watercraft, power sports, fishing, hunting, camping and outdoor gear, or book your next outdoor adventure,” says Marla Kimball, Show Manager, “there are wildlife displays and associations dedicated to education, preservation and conservation efforts as well.”
As Calgarians we are extremely fortunate to have an abundance of resources that support the outdoor lifestyle in our own back yard. Whether you enjoy boating on a nearby lake, fishing one of our many waterways, taking a hike in the mountains or camping under the stars, the Calgary Boat and Outdoors Show has you covered.
This is the perfect time of year if you are in the market for a new boat. There will be a huge selection available for viewing on the Show floor, and the dealers are offering some of the best prices of the season. Order your new watercraft at the Show to ensure delivery early this spring so you can get the most of your time on the water during the warmer months.
Introducing a child to the love of the outdoors often starts very young. For many, their first fishing experience takes place right at the Show. The kids fishing pond is a live trout pond. Kids under 12 years of age can participate in the catch and release program. All the funds raised benefit the Calgary and Sarcee Fish and Game Associations.
The Alberta Hunter Education Instructors Association (AHEIA) Zone is a family friendly area that features tons of hands on activities including hunting, fishing and archery simulators. The association’s aim is to create an ethical, humane and educated Alberta that values wildlife, fish and the environment. The friendly volunteers will provide information on local conservation, hunting and boating safety programs, and much more.
The ever-popular Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation will be at the Show with some of its residents. The Centre’s knowledgeable staff are eager to share stories of how the Centre has been instrumental in the rehabilitation and release of numerous injured birds of prey back into the wild. Their goal is to encourage positive habitat stewardship through increased public environmental awareness.
The Show provides and opportunity to get up close and personal with some cold-blooded animals on display at the Calgary Reptile Parties exhibit. This is not for the squeamish or faint of heart. Some of the fascinating creatures include, bearded dragons, geckos, snakes of all sizes, tarantulas and scorpions. Close up, or from a comfortable distance, these animals are truly fascinating.
The West Coast Lumberjack Show is a family favourite and is back by popular demand. Take in one of their Shows and cheer on your favourite team as they compete head to head in axe throwing, cross cutting, standing block chop and even log rolling. It is always a crowd pleaser and full action packed entertainment. There will also be a chainsaw carver on site creating breathtaking one-of-a-kind works of art. Show goers can watch these pieces take shape right at the Show.
If your love of the outdoor lifestyle includes traveling to participate in outdoor related activities the Travel and Tourism area is likely to have what you are looking for. If it is a family houseboat vacation, white water rafting trip, an excursion to a remote hunting or fishing camp, or a Salmon fishing trip off the West Coast, you can book right at the Show.
One of the world’s best fly fishing resources runs right through the city of Calgary. The fly fishing Learning Centre provides tips from professionals, advice on fly tying and you can even try out your technique or learn the basics at the casting pond.
The Outdoor Stage will play host to some of Western Canada’s most renowned outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen. There is a great cross section of presenters who will cover a variety of hunting and fishing related topics. This year’s line-up includes; host of Fishing the Wild West, Wes David, Josh Nugent local Fly Fishing expert and guide, Lisa Roper outdoor enthusiast, competitive fisherman, Mike Engler, and The Fishinggeeks, Sean and Adam Konrad. Check the website for presentation topics and times.
Be sure to fill out a ballot at the Grand Prize Booth to enter to win a robotic lawn mower provided by Husqvarna, valued at over $3000.00!
For more information and tickets visit: www.calgaryboatandoutdoorshow.ca
