As 2010 drew to a close we can look back and laugh or cry, but either way it's over and we need to hit the ground running in 2011!
Instead of making some outrageous new years resolution why not try a simple one this year. One that can benefit your health - both physically and mentally. Read this line out loud; "I resolve to spend more time in the great outdoors this year!"
I'll bet you feel better already. But how do we get started in the dead of winter? Go to a show. There are lots of outdoors shows around and I will list a few of them at the end. Most shows focus on fishing, which I think is awesome, but there's so much more at these shows. There really is something for everyone.
You can learn about winter activities like ice fishing, hunting, skiing, snowshoeing and more. Then there are the warm weather activities like fishing, hiking, camping, canoeing - the list goes on and on.
Shows are a great way to not only see the equipment and accessories that it takes to enjoy whatever activity you choose but also to learn about them from people in every field. Most shows offer how-to seminars that are included in the price of admission and can be a great source of information.
The vendors at the shows are an incredible wealth of knowledge as well - not only for the how to but also for the where to. The price of gas is projected to go way up by this summer so you can use the shows to gather information on where to fish, hike, boat, ski close to home.
Not all of the booths at the shows are there to sell you something; many of them are there for promotion. The Iowa DNR attends many shows just to answer questions. Both of the fishing clubs that I'm a member of have booths at shows, the Isaac Walton league and others are there to promote the outdoors right here in the Cedar Valley.
I often find myself talking to people from the many lodges around the country and Canada to find out what's the best way to catch fish in their area and then incorporate that into my fishing in Iowa. Using shows to learn how to make the great outdoors more fun and affordable makes good sense plus it's a great way to fend off cabin fever! I will be at both of the shows at the UNI dome at the Cedar Valley Bassmaster booth. Stop by, say hi, and swap some fishing stories. Until next time keep your lure wet!
Iowa Boat, RV & Vacation show
UNI Dome, Cedar Falls
January 21 – 23
Cedar Rapids / Iowa City Sport show
Coralville Marriott Conference center, Coralville
February 4 – 6
Eastern Iowa Sport show
UNI Dome, Cedar Falls
March 11 - 13 |
