The show runs through Sunday, bringing anglers and hunters abundant opportunities to learn fine points ranging from casting curves in fly lines to outfoxing wild turkeys or tailwater trout. Celebrity speakers will hold forth on flies for sailfish, rigs for walleyes, advanced bassing, elk and mule deer hunting and staying alive when you get lost in the Rockies. Show producers, O'Loughlin Trade Shows of Portland, Ore., say many exhibitors offer special prices at the show for their wares and adventures. If you're a cautious shopper who never buys a pair of waders or a belly boat without giving them a true test, you can dive into a 4,500-gallon indoor float tube pool. Fly rods take the test at the casting pool.
Gun dogs occupy a perennially favorite arena.
Expert trainers and handlers from the National Hunting Dog Association and Colorado Gun Dog Association will put pointing, flushing and retrieving breeds through their paces and dispense advice on training and canine nutrition. Dan Mar, founder of the NHDA, will speak on dog training methods. The Colorado Division of Wildlife also joins the act. If you have a question or gripe about fish and wildlife management or just want to learn a hot spot or two, take it up with division representatives at the agency's booth. Rick Enstrom 6-8 p.m. Friday or Bernard Black at the booth Saturday afternoon.