[Billfish715]

There was a lot to see. The vendors were well-stocked and the major rod and reel manufacturer's reps were all present. There were sales if you looked around and knew what you wanted. You could see the rods and reels at the manufacturers' booths and talk to the very knowledgeable reps who could then direct you to a dealer who had them in stock. Many of the manufacturers had show specials offered through the dealers.

There were boats......more boats than at Somerset. There were kayaks........lots of kayaks. There was a booth dedicated to small engine repairs. There were engine mechanics who did in-water engine repairs. There was offshore and inshore tackle and lures and terminal tackle. There were various NJ fishing clubs and organizations. Some of the booths were the same ones as from Somerset. Others were new.

If you wanted to go on a fishing vacation, there were many choices from Alaska to Costa Rica. There was a trout pond and a gold mining hands on booth for the kids. Kids were actually catching trout in the pond. There was a fly casting pool for anyone who was interested in that part of the sport. In the back of the exhibit there was a fishing tackle discount booth. There were sinkers for 15 cents an ounce. Some of the dealers had discounted, first quality rods and reels.

The Angry Fish had some great photographs for sale. Most of them were taken in NJ. and included pictures of waves filled with bunkers, porpoise close ups, stripers, landscapes and wildlife. There was a booth with gorgeous fish taxidermy. Sunglasses? Costa and the other majors were there. Braided ropes of all sizes were for sale too.

There were at least two areas to buy food. One area near the beer garden had tables so you could sit and enjoy. The pickle guy was there fully loaded. There was a jerky vendor with lots of varieties to choose from and there were a couple of barbecue sauce vendors and one vendor with lots of hot mustard.

I spent a lot of time there today and yesterday. There was a large crowd but the aisles were wide and long and they absorbed the masses. Even the handicapped fishermen in their wheelchairs were able to move around fairly easily. Parking was at a premium but it was at Somerset too. The center thinned out around 2:00 but there were still lots of fishermen walking around. It was easier to access some of the booths later in the day.

By all means, go. Be patient. You'll find a place to park. There's more spots on the back side. There is a shuttle but I don't have info on that. You'll see lots of friendly and familiar faces when you go. Oh, yeah, the seminars are worthwhile as well. Be sure to take notes. Enjoy yourselves. Make a day of it and bring the family.