How was the show?
I am heading there Sunday am.

It seemed very slow today. Attendance was way down from last year (probably weather related). Fewer vendors too, but the good news is, most of them have a lot of stock remaining after the low turnout today.

Attendance was down today like Mike said but it was hopping for most of the day for us. Enjoyed speaking with everyone that stopped by, seems like there are alot of new guys taking up saltwater fishing this year and it was a pleasure to actually have a few minutes here and there to pass on some knowledge and ratchetjaw

GREAT show with some good laughs today. :kewl:

"May I have your attention the blue van in the parking lot has your lights on" ROFLMAO

If anyone spots that guy in the white shirt walking around tomorrow please tell him thanks for the billboard advertising all day :hee:

the SHOW is always fun for me.....lotsa stuff left....always great to see and jaw with everyone....gets ya psyched up for the season.....
:btu: :btu: :btu:

It might have been off a little from last year because of the weather but good stuff - lotsa S-B'ers in attendance. Probably missed a few because people couldn't see around Larry's booth :laugha:

Good seeing everyone - great job by the MSBA folks - I'm going to bed....

:bshake:

I'll be there tomorrow. I'm the guy with the snowshovel hunchback.:laugha:

Saw Roy Leyva's show. He puts a lot into fishing, kids and life - great balance and inspiring.

Also enjoyed seeing Salty's P-town Special and the Pt Jude boys - can't wait for RI's show on the 30th!

Roy is the best :btu:
He has so much energy,enthusiasm,character and talent, and he's a great fisherman too.
Thanks again Roy and Dan for spending so much time putting up with my son Danny today, I hope he was of some help and hope he didn't wear Dan down too much. I guess you got a few laughs.

I saw lots of guys and got to hear Charlie Cinto.

Spent some money on plugs I probably don't need, but I'll use them someday anyhow. Got some seabait so I can cheat. Pt.Jude Joe, Thanks for the gold plating:thanks:
good luck with that Danny

Bigfish, hey don't look now but your shirt is inside out ;)

There were not many vendors but I did score a pile of loot.

Salty..hope the hand gets better cause I want one of those bottle swimmers :drool:

The point jude tins look great as well I cant wait to use them.

Picked up lots o rubbah and jigs for the canal. There was some amazing stuff there..

I am sure it was the weather I was going to make the trip from nj and know others that were too and the snow ruined it for me-

Hey guys,

Glad to see so many of you there today and hope to see more tomorrow. You are right, less vendors this year. We lost 11 booth spaces due to cancellations within 24 hours of the show.
We did what we could to spread things out and keep a good feel. Al Gag's Custom Lures, Gag's Grabbers, Guppy Lures, NJ Tackle, J&B Tackle, and Boondocks all cancelled. Maybe a few more but I would have to check the list.

But I got better news on who is there. Big Fish Bait Co's first show and there is product left. PT Jude Guys got their shine on. RonZ selling direct from his own booth. Project Rubber from Alan of Got Stryper Charters is a really great Product and he has some left, though not much. Oh Yeah, MV Derby only does MSBA Show and has te and sweat shirts at reduced costs. Ahhh, and then there is Salty...Booger Entertainment tomorrow, I guarantee. I even saw a few Surf Asylum funny shapes left in Dave's Booth. Oh yeah, you boat guys check oyut Chaos Rods...sweet.

One of my favorite things about MSBA Show is that we do not fill it with jerky, boat insurance and chewing tobacco to make it bigger. Quality is the key and it is at the show this year also, even with the weather cancellations.

MSBA needs people to attend and support this, our biggest fundraiser. Come on down as without you, this could be the last MSBA show. We need you.

Ok NOW i'm nervous

"Ahhh, and then there is Salty...Booger Entertainment tomorrow, I guarantee."

Last thing Patrick said to me on the way out was...Salty that rope ain't big enough :eek:

S'ok bring it on I got the squirt guns ready :D

Despite the weather it was busy with a lot of fishermen/women during the show yesterday.Saw a lot of familiar faces and met some new ones too.Great entertainment in between with shenannigans on St Patricks Day as well:faga: I keep waiting for the principal to show up and start handing out detention slips.:biglaugh: Come on down and check it out!

Went yesterday. Glad the stadium was easy to find off of 495 because I realized I didnt even look up directions before I left...It did seem a bit slow when I got there...Saw a whole bunch of stuff I wanted. Was good and only bought a few things. (though I did blow $4.00 on a medium coffee, I still cant believe I paid $4.00 for a medium coffee...). Then listened to Steve's talk on fishing the sand....good thing he's a tall boy:eek5: and could still see even from the back row. Now I am all pumped to get out there again. Poked around a little more but had such a headache:huh: (I think it was the $4.00 coffee) I headed out.

Good show have not been in a few years and glad to see its still not filled with "super mops" and " the amazing car wax" booths.

I agree with all above, I actually was hoping to see Guppy, but did great anyways. Saw Steve's talk and met a few S-B fellows. Picked up some sweet stuff from Salty and Surf Asylum, as well as stocked up on Canal jigs and super strike poppers. Those two were more of replenish/stock up and the wood was more purchases that I hope big bass think look as sweet as I do. The Sheriff may be my best purchase, I am going to have to take a few prime plug days on the canal off from work to try it out early mornings.
The custom rubber looked nice - but I got there late and he was out of the ones I wanted.
Has anyone out there used the sea juice stuff? I almost bought a chapstick but wanted to hear first hand knowledge.

I was there for 5 hours with my kid in tow. He loved all the fish displays and all the rigs and lures hanging. I made one round of the tables before I broke out the green and POOF! The green was gone. I had good mind to feed the little guy before I went on a shopping spree.

I was disappointed with the show this year due to fewer vendors than in the past. I also did not find the bargains that I have found in the past. I was really surprised by how few reel and rod manufacturers were there. No Van Staal, lamiglas, AquaSkinz, etc... Penn was there and the really was about it. The Daiwa booth was a joke. I wanted to fondle the Daiwa Saltiga Surf but I did not see one there.

However, I did enjoy seminars by Flaptail and Eric Stewart. I wanted to hear Roy Levya but it was at the same time as the tuna seminar.

Please don't get me wrong, I am happy that I went to the show but I was disappointed by how few vendors were there compared to years past. I do realize that the weather played a part in this. It seems like manufacturers are choosing to go to the RISSA show instead.

I had a great time at the show as usual and I think MSBA did a fantastic job pulling it off, it definitely a huge undertaking and you guys did it will. I do have to agree about the lack of a few vendors that were there last year though, but a lot of my favorites were still there!

Good to see all you S-B dudes as usual! Nice to meet the Saltybuggar himself (thanks for the eelskin plugs!!) and BigFish, I can't wait to swim the spook...errr...blitz seeker!

see you guys at RISAA!

I am going to RISAAM is it larger than MSBA?

John I stopped by to say hello but you were always busy. I met you several years ago when the show was at Independece Mall. I just wanted to say hello and thank you for this site.

I met Uncle Matt....nice to meet you! Rockport....did you introduce yourself as Rockport from the site??? I think I remember you but not sure....refresh my memory!:uhuh:

Larry, forgot to say that to ya! I'm Matt, the guy that met ya at the plum island show, I think you recognized me when I stopped by your booth, but couldnt' remember how, I stopped by your booth at the end of the day, around 4:30 or so on Saturday, we were talking with John about spooks at night.

Hi guys,

It was nice briefly meeting many of you. I was helping with setup in the snow on Friday and the rain on Saturday. (I was the one in the red shirt :wave: ) Unfortunately I was called back to work before I was able to do much buying or even return on Sunday.......but there will be other days.
I also wanted to thank the people with the MSBA. I have been involved with some of these type events before and know how difficult they can be to pull off. Hopefully I will actually make a meeting this year and see many of you again soon.

Thanks again,
Eric

I ended up working the entrance area all mornning. I got to fly thru the show for about 15 mins and I regret not picking anything up nor stopping to talk to anyone.. Had to get back to work......

Ah well... It was cool volunteering.

BillB. and I didn't make it down from Maine this year. We planned on going to the RISSA show instead, We are looking forward to it! We have never been and it looks huge. :jump:

The show was good. I had a good time but the weather surely played a part. A number of vendors were kept away and some of the old time vendors wee there. I think that Gillette is nice but not that user friendly. I thnk a hall somewhere on the southcoast in Massachusetts where the distance between the NY/CT/RI and MA folks is slightly more equitable might be an answer. Some vendors echoed that to me. One floor with ease of in and out might be better and maybe a slightly earlier date so as not to compete with RISSA only two weeks away. I am not a member of any club or organization so this is just a chumps view of course.

RISSA is perfectly situated for that but after all this was the Massachusetts Striped Bass Association show and it has to be situated in our state.

I had fun doing the seminars and always enjoy meeting new people. Thanks to Larry of BigFishBait ,Dave at Surf Asylum and Joe at PT. Jude Lures.

Salty is obviously still pissed at me and I don't blame him.

My olf friend Capt. Roger Jarvis, I got a copy of his Tuna book and read half last night until the wee hours. It's a great read by a truly great guy and expert Captain. I alway look forward to our talks.

Mr. Peterson, who introduced me as the kid next to Arnold Laine in one of the pictures in the article. I will take you up on coming over to talk of the old days and the great fisherman he knew and fished with on the beach. He related some great memories of his time with Laine, Woolner and the rest. Thank you.

Well just some thoughts and thanks to Massachusetts Striped Bass Association for having me, your a great group of dedicated individuals and my hat is off to you all.

Steve S.

The show was a success for us, I want to say thanks to everyone who bought a plug or 5 :hee: and remind everyone that an improved version of the Real-Eel will be back as soon as humanly possible.

The show was good. I had a good time but the weather surely played a part. A number of vendors were kept away and some of the old time vendors wee there. I think that Gillette is nice but not that user friendly. I thnk a hall somewhere on the southcoast in Massachusetts where the distance between the NY/CT/RI and MA folks is slightly more equitable might be an answer. Some vendors echoed that to me. One floor with ease of in and out might be better and maybe a slightly earlier date so as not to compete with RISSA only two weeks away. I am not a member of any club or organization so this is just a chumps view of course.

RISSA is perfectly situated for that but after all this was the Massachusetts Striped Bass Association show and it has to be situated in our state.

I had fun doing the seminars and always enjoy meeting new people. Thanks to Larry of BigFishBait ,Dave at Surf Asylum and Joe at PT. Jude Lures.

Salty is obviously still pissed at me and I don't blame him.

My olf friend Capt. Roger Jarvis, I got a copy of his Tuna book and read half last night until the wee hours. It's a great read by a truly great guy and expert Captain. I alway look forward to our talks.

Mr. Peterson, who introduced me as the kid next to Arnold Laine in one of the pictures in the article. I will take you up on coming over to talk of the old days and the great fisherman he knew and fished with on the beach. He related some great memories of his time with Laine, Woolner and the rest. Thank you.

Well just some thoughts and thanks to Massachusetts Striped Bass Association for having me, your a great group of dedicated individuals and my hat is off to you all.

Steve S.

Thanks for doing your presentation. I rarely fish the Cape beaches but there was alot of info you could apply to fishing anywhere. It was helpful and got me fired up for next season.

Also going to try out some of those x-raps. just wish they made them in black and yellow/white.

The show was good. I had a good time but the weather surely played a part. A number of vendors were kept away and some of the old time vendors wee there. I think that Gillette is nice but not that user friendly. I thnk a hall somewhere on the southcoast in Massachusetts where the distance between the NY/CT/RI and MA folks is slightly more equitable might be an answer. Some vendors echoed that to me. One floor with ease of in and out might be better and maybe a slightly earlier date so as not to compete with RISSA only two weeks away. I am not a member of any club or organization so this is just a chumps view of course.


Steve S.

I'm just a chump too, but I couldn't agree with you more.

I also think the food prices are keeping people away. If you take your kid to the show, he's going to want lunch. You have to figure $30 for the two of you to eat. Add that to the $15 you paid to get in and the $5 for him, you're 50 clams down before you ever spend a dime on gear.

It's a very nice, prestigious venue. But there are negatives associated with it, for both vendors and patrons. I forgot how much I was told it cost for a fax or internet hookup for vendors to take credit cards, but it was substantial. Very few vendors were accepting credit cards. For better or for worse, people expect to be able to use them. Plus, the main hallway is dark, and I was told there was also an additional cost for the Stadium staff to hook up auxiliary lighting.

I'm just a chump too, but I couldn't agree with you more.

I also think the food prices are keeping people away. If you take your kid to the show, he's going to want lunch. You have to figure $30 for the two of you to eat. Add that to the $15 you paid to get in and the $5 for him, you're 50 clams down before you ever spend a dime on gear.

It's a very nice, prestigious venue. But there are negatives associated with it, for both vendors and patrons. I forgot how much I was told it cost for a fax or internet hookup for vendors to take credit cards, but it was substantial. Very few vendors were accepting credit cards. For better or for worse, people expect to be able to use them. Plus, the main hallway is dark, and I was told there was also an additional cost for the Stadium staff to hook up auxiliary lighting.

:claps: :claps: :claps:

Could not agree more. The show was AWSOME at the mall in Kingston. I do not understand the reason why the show was at Gillette, maybe someone can explain?

:claps: :claps: :claps:

Could not agree more. The show was AWSOME at the mall in Kingston. I do not understand the reason why the show was at Gillette, maybe someone can explain?

I don't recall all of the particulars but the Kingston and Cordage locations became no longer available so Cordage not available spawned Kingston which when no longer availeble spawned Gillette. One of the advantages of Gillette is knowing you can get it on an annual basis because you can book it well in advance.

I agree with some of the issues mentioned, finding the best location for everyone is indeed very difficult.

But Kudos to the folks at MSBA for doing their darndest when the odds were stacked against them :btu:

first off msba is a great club, I'm not a member but have been to most of their shows, and these guys/gals have always put their hearts and souls into the shows.

I didn't make the show this year because I wasn't thrilled with the venue last year and $15 is to much spend when you're going to spend anyway. The food prices at gillette are criminal.
imho Kingston Mall (bestbuy)was the best MSBA show i've been to.

It's a very nice, prestigious venue. But there are negatives associated with it, for both vendors and patrons. I forgot how much I was told it cost for a fax or internet hookup for vendors to take credit cards, but it was substantial. Very few vendors were accepting credit cards. For better or for worse, people expect to be able to use them. Plus, the main hallway is dark, and I was told there was also an additional cost for the Stadium staff to hook up auxiliary lighting.

Pretty much all retail shows like this operate the same way. Complete robbery and it's part of the reason dealers eventually get fed up and decide it's just not worth it. Costs are simply obscene. You have to have epic sales to cover all the costs associated with the weekend. This is partly a function of the scale and location of these shows; those who organize them (RISAA and MSBA) really have no control over it other then the choice of venue.

We didn't go to MSBA, but here's some utilities/set up numbers for RISAA. Right off the bat, you've got to cover your booth cost. Electricity is approx. $90 or more for the weekend. Internet access? Only option is a T1. For $500 the first day, $250 each additional. (For other vendors who read this, I've found I can generally catch Wi-Fi in some parts of the Convention Center floor). Telephone? $165 or more... No wonder vendors don't offer credit card. Between that and cc processing fees you're generally out 4% or more on every transaction.

If you're never wrestled heavy booth pieces and and bins of things like Andrus bucktails and Point Jude Tins up and down the stairs you probably haven't noticed what was wrong with Kingston.

Also, the power going on the fritz all weekend and frying our computer/cash register wasn't the greatest either. We were ringing up sales on a calculator we bought from the Radio Shack in the mall that weekend.

ANY show isn't easy though, no matter what the venue. I have complete respect for any vendors that attend and especially those who organize these shows and feel the wrath of vendors (and the public) when things don't go perfectly. There's a lot of hard work from everyone to make these events happen. :kewl:

First, I'd like to thank MSBA for putting on the show. I schedule it every year, keeps me sane till the fish show up. I met the two guys who run this fabulos web sight which was very cool. There were not a ton of vendors, but I managed to walk out with a lighter wallet. The Gillette food was awful and expensive. Next year I'll eat before or after.

The people that run the show for MSBA ( Patrick , Chris and all the others that I don't know their names) do a GREAT job. I have been to the last 3 shows with my brother (pt . Jude Joe). They always do a great job getting you into your booth and out the door when the show is over.

So THANK YOU for all the The MSBA does.

Jeff

:cheers:

My comments were in no way meant as a slight to MSBA, those people are first class. :claps:

The food is a problem though I spent 12.00 bucks on three pepsis in two days. Thats a hit for 3 mostly ice filled drinks.

I know The Kingston Mall was hairy. I remember the electricity problems.

I miss the old Armory and the sausage/pepper/onion subs but that venue was too small. I know Gillette appears to have some prestige but there has to be somewhere like U-Mass Dartmouth or soemthing along those lines.

Also, if it is at Gillette next year ( and I will go because I haven't missed the show in ten years or more now) how will vendors feel with Bass Pro being open right next door?

Again, the MSBA folks are tops in my book but I can't shake the feeling that there might be a better time and place for the show.

The show needs a permanent home at a better time slot. They are too close to RISSA and that's some serious competition. Some vendors just cannot do both that close.

I too had a good time at the show....spent some serious cake....not only on fishing stuff but on the $7.50 budweiser.

"2 Budweisers Please"......I throw the guy a $20 and get $5 back...:shocked: :gu:

Why not a school gymnasium for the show?

I can tell you first hand as I have been the show co-chair under Pat Paquette for the 3 years in Kingston and an ardent supporter of the show the past 2 years. The Kingston location did become unavailable unfortunately and Patrick, myself and many other club members turned over every rock, called about every hall, location, empty storefront such as the Bob's and Filenes locations in Kingston were and we could not find a suitable location to meet our needs in particular a large space and one we could make a permanent home for the MSBA Show! We continue to make improvements though it gets more difficult all the time! In regards to scheduling conflicts with the RISSA show....may I say with the exception of this year.....MSBA has had its show the same weekend in March going back at least 10 years and RISSA is only in its 4th year? MSBA has been having shows for a considerable time longer than the 10 years I speak of and we did move our show weekend back a week because of the conflict with the other show! All I can say is RISSA plopped themselves down close to the MSBA show.....what can ya do? So we moved it a week! We also have to take into consideration other similar shows in the area such as Worcester and Springfield to name only 2 of them. As far as food prices....what are the prices like at the Rissa show in the Civic Center?? No bargain I am sure but when you move into these larger venues......things change and MSBA has tried its best to keep the show intimate, all fishing and consumer friendly! The parking for instance we always try to make sure you don't have to pay for it! You would all be amazed at what goes on behind the scenes running these shows and the minute' details we have to attend to to make it a success! Unfortunately with the weather we had on Friday we had 11 vendors cancel at the last minute and there is not much you can do about that.....you carry on and try to make it the best show you can with what you have and I bet you Patrick was on the phone Friday night trying to fill those empty slots......talk about a tall task. I do hope folks enjoyed themslves and MSBA does listen to all the feedback both positive and negative and we strive to make the necessary improvemnts each year. The club is meeting this week to get the ball rolling early for next year so stay tuned and stay supportive......we work hard at MSBA to put on a great show for the fishing public!:btu:

Just to reiterate.....Patrick, myself and others investigated over 65 locations before resting with Gillette......school gymnasiums are not large enough! We checked them all....name a place and I can tell you it was on our list!:wavey:

The people that run the show for MSBA ( Patrick , Chris and all the others that I don't know their names) do a GREAT job. I have been to the last 3 shows with my brother (pt . Jude Joe). They always do a great job getting you into your booth and out the door when the show is over.

So THANK YOU for all the The MSBA does.

Jeff

:cheers:


The help at MSBA is world class. I've traveled to and set up at way too many fishing shows and for sure they set the standard.

I know The Kingston Mall was hairy. I remember the electricity problems.



I also remember it being close to 100 degrees at times in that hell-hole. Even with the cheap foodcourt upstairs and down the hall, it was too much to bear. I don't miss Kingston.

And I'll echo Flap. I don't mean in any way to belittle the efforts of the guys who work hard to organize this show. And it won't stop me from attending in the future. It's nice to sit by the fireplace and look out over the stadium, and if you know what to expect in the way of food costs, you budget for it (though Harpoon's absence this year put a crimp in it because I was expecting to wash down that $7.50 cardboard pizza with a free sample beer ;) ). I'm just relaying the feedback I get from others. Patrons and vendors alike.

I just wish there was a place on the Southcoast where it could be held that was available. UM-Dartmouth would be ideal, but if it isn't available, it isn't. I also understand the need to have a place booked far enough in advance to make it a definite "go" for the time frame--you can't just wait and hope that some factory outlet mall somewhere will fold on February 1 so you can have it there in mid-March.

I guess having a home after scrambling for a location for so long isn't the worst thing. Too bad you can't cut a deal with the Pats to let patrons brown-bag it :D

I would just like to say thank you to all that came out and made the expo special. :claps: :claps: :claps:
I am proudly the President of MSBA, with very good reason.
Seeing so many people give so much of thier time to the club for almost nothing in return is amazing.
Thank you all for the countless hours the committee puts in from the very begining to the last minute when we pull the MSBA trailer away.
Not one person in MSBA is compensated for thier time. The club just has to ask for help and the members always stepup, no matter what the odds. This years show (put on within 4 months of approval) was the most well organized show we have done to date. It is all thanks to the MSBA members that step up.

MSBA will continue to strive to improve, as we have done since 1950.

Again, thank you to all the volunteers, vendors, and public for coming out and supporting MSBA.

Anyone that is not a member of MSBA, should be. Then you would get a sense of the pride its members take in wearing the colors...

Chris Lincoln
Proud member and President

I would just like to say thank you to all that came out and made the expo special. :claps: :claps: :claps:
I am proudly the President of MSBA, with very good reason.
Seeing so many people give so much of thier time to the club for almost nothing in return is amazing.
Thank you all for the countless hours the committee puts in from the very begining to the last minute when we pull the MSBA trailer away.
Not one person in MSBA is compensated for thier time. The club just has to ask for help and the members always stepup, no matter what the odds. This years show (put on within 4 months of approval) was the most well organized show we have done to date. It is all thanks to the MSBA members that step up.

MSBA will continue to strive to improve, as we have done since 1950.

Again, thank you to all the volunteers, vendors, and public for coming out and supporting MSBA.

Anyone that is not a member of MSBA, should be. Then you would get a sense of the pride its members take in wearing the colors...

Chris Lincoln
Proud member and President

Chris we know it and we appreciate it believe me, no one can ever say anything bad about you and your people in my presence, I know how hard you worked and continue to work at it. Hats off to you all at MSBA.:cheers:

One thing though, if Parick ever realizes he has a talent for doing the public announcements and visits Hollywood, your screwed! He could be that guy you here on the previews on DVD's!!!!!

Chris, Slingah and I were commenting on Patricks perfect radio voice and how he should get on the radio somewhere.......then we could turn him off at will!;) :bl2:

He does have a great "on air" voice!:kewl:

Hmmmmmm....I hear Jay Baver is leaving OTW to go back to the mountains and his family. Maybe there is an opportunity here....lol


Chris we know it and we appreciate it believe me, no one can ever say anything bad about you and your people in my presence, I know how hard you worked and continue to work at it. Hats off to you all at MSBA.:cheers:

One thing though, if Parick ever realizes he has a talent for doing the public announcements and visits Hollywood, your screwed! He could be that guy you here on the previews on DVD's!!!!!

Basic Patrick = the next James Earle Jones :btu:

I wonder if the Krafts will have some stipulations added to the show once their mega mall with a BassPro is finally open??

Hmmmmmm....I hear Jay Baver is leaving OTW to go back to the mountains and his family. Maybe there is an opportunity here....lol


Patrick - notice they said RADIO and not TV :bshake:

Yeah Patrick....radio voice does not translate to TV face!!:bl2:

You guys do put on a great show, althought I couldn't attend this year, have gone in the past few years and it is excellent - for a small entrance fee, a bunch of great seminars, lots of great fishing talk and great vendors as well ... there are a ton of shows during the winter, seem to be more than ever, but not all very good. MSBA puts on a great show ... so thumbs up to everyone involved, you guys provide a great service to all of us.

Video Killed the Radio Star......just look what MTV did to Joe Jackson

Video Killed the Radio Star......just look what MTV did to Joe Jackson

Now that is some funny chit right there...see you Memorial Day weekend my friend.

I have a big problem with the mass show..
It's too damn far..
Guy's spending 2-3 hundy on fishing equipment complaining about food prices are funny.
Patrick could play some guy getting snuffed in a Scorsesse film.
It would have to be the big screen..

I thought the show was great. I don't look at it like my $15.00 doesn't buy me anything. It's a show......a show usually means it has an entertainment value. And that's exactly how I view it. And with 11 vendors not being able to make it I thought it was still a great show.

As far as food and beer prices go what can you do. The boat show the food was outragously priced as was the beer. But American Legions and VFWs and gun clubs alike raise the beer/liquor prices for hall events. It happens.

But I don't go to the boat show or the fishing shows to eat or drink. If I can get a burger and a beer at the event it's all the better.

I met a few people from here and from the MSBA and had a great time. I also met some of the guys on here who have business which gives me new places to acquire my equipment.

My friends and I look forward to the show every year. We never leave empty handed.

Great Event and Great Job by ALL invloved!!!!!!

Just to reiterate.....Patrick, myself and others investigated over 65 locations before resting with Gillette......school gymnasiums are not large enough! We checked them all....name a place and I can tell you it was on our list!:wavey:

Did you call Lowell High School, the field house is massive! I know it is bigger than the area at Gillette. If you have been to the Tsongas arena you probably have seen the Field House at Lowell High School as it is the octagon shaped building across from the arena.

You may not have all of the creature comforts like internet access but from what I can see no one wants to afford the access anyway.

Was it too far north? How many folks came down from the north to go to Gillette?

I also know that there was a fishing show at an Arena in Wilmington...but that may be the same cost as Gillette.

Also I know this is way far north but the Race track in Salem, NH is enough to hold the vendors at the MSBA show...but again the cost may be the same and it may be WAY too far north for some folks.

Just some suggestions for maybe next year.

Guy's spending 2-3 hundy on fishing equipment complaining about food prices are funny.
.


Many patrons don't spend anywhere near that. Many spend less than $50.

I can't speak for all of the folks who complain, but I think what rubs them the wrong way isn't the cost--it's the fact that they're getting boned. $7.50 for a piece of carboard with a ladle of sauce and a handful of cheese spread over it--rubber burgers--4 oz of soda in a cup with 12 oz of ice for $4. I think if the quality of the food was better, you'd hear fewer complaints. Plus, the stadium security people are downright militant about bringing in outside food/drinks--even with the vendors who come in early to set up before they can even buy a cup of $4 coffee.

My friends and I walked in with coffees from the outside and nobody said a word. Then after the show we went to the outback for burgers and beer. $20.00 a piece for a burger and two beers each. They were 12 oz. beers. I think the stadium has 16oz. beers? Do they? They do for the games...

But the burger and fries were very tasty.....

I bet all who saw you were envious.....cause that "Dunkin Donuts" coffee inside sucked!!! Thank Gawd my buddies went out both days and got me the real McCoy!!:gu: :kewl:

It does suck in there. I had the coffee at a game last year. It was horrible......

I wonder if people complain about these prices on food and beer when the pats are palying the colts in a run for the superbowl....problably not because its expected.....


Many patrons don't spend anywhere near that. Many spend less than $50.

I can't speak for all of the folks who complain, but I think what rubs them the wrong way isn't the cost--it's the fact that they're getting boned. $7.50 for a piece of carboard with a ladle of sauce and a handful of cheese spread over it--rubber burgers--4 oz of soda in a cup with 12 oz of ice for $4. I think if the quality of the food was better, you'd hear fewer complaints. Plus, the stadium security people are downright militant about bringing in outside food/drinks--even with the vendors who come in early to set up before they can even buy a cup of $4 coffee.

Shows suck.

:rotf2:
yeah, but aren't we gonna see you at RISAA Joe?

Yes...I'm going....
I know I'm better off working on the website than selling at a show, but yes I'm going.
You work at a show and even if you do well you have not accomplished anything lasting...It's like 60+ hours work...People will say that you get a big bounce and you get a lot more regular customers and your business grows from the exposure - but they're wrong about that just like they're wrong about everything....

Somebody will come along in the near future with a better idea for shows.....Not me, but somebody will. A smaller more specialized show system would work much better.

like, say, a surfcasting only show?

Somebody will come along in the near future with a better idea for shows.....Not me, but somebody will. A smaller more specialized show system would work much better.

I bet Bass Pro will...DOH!

I know they have a spring fever sale or something like that...great deals on gear too!

I think for a lot of people--myself included--shows are more of a social thing, and a chance to beat cabin fever. I never buy a lot of gear--I think I spent $10 on some 5 oz Ronz eels and another fin on a Derby hat, since I haven't been to MV since 2001. But I know that I'm going to run into people who I haven't seen in awhile.

I also think that the internet has removed some of the allure of shows--especially the big mega-shows like Worcester and Suffern, NY. I used to attend Suffern religiously, even though it was always the same vendors in the same places, and 80% of it wasn't stuff I'd ever be interetsed in--like Montana elk guides, beef jerky and miracle knife vendors, and the like. What used to get me there every year like clockwork was the chance to see the new fishing gear for that year from all of the major manufacturers, and to leave with an armload of catalogs. These days, guys fish in August with "new" reel models for the next season after getting one online from an overseas source, and a catalog is basically a few mouse clicks away. I remember the last year that the MSBA show was at Braintree Armory. The Abu rep was showing off this hot "new" Abu model called the 6500 Mag Elite. I'd already been fishing with one for two years after buying it online from England ;) New to the US market was the only "new" part of it.

Somebody will come along in the near future with a better idea for shows.....Not me, but somebody will. A smaller more specialized show system would work much better.


Someone before me already did about 8 years ago:

SWE Fishing Show (http://www.saltwateredge.com/info/FAIR.html)

River's End Tackle also does something similar although on a smaller scale.

And, I concur, shows suck. I can't wait for April 2nd.

did you post that Pete at the time! I didn't know!! too bad I missed it, sounds great

did you post that Pete at the time! I didn't know!! too bad I missed it, sounds great


Definitely. It was stickied at the top of the main forum for about a month. ;)

Definitely. It was stickied at the top of the main forum for about a month. ;)

you didn't just say stickied....did you



great show the boys at swe put on.....

you didn't just say stickied....did you



What else would call it?.... :hihi:

Ohh yeahh, I was gone that weekend skiing.
too bad, next year!
I can't wait for RISAA, I've got gear-fever now

I had a great time, I think a lot of people relate the shows with amazing deals on equip. Which is fine, we all look for getting things cheaper if we can. For me spending $15 to hang out talk fishing and get to meet some new faces is worth it. One thing we all know is you can't please every one and I think the msba guys have done a great job at trying. So if you went to the show and left pissed cause it wasn't to your liking, then something is definatly wrong with you. There is a lot worst things we have all spent our money on.

What else would call it?.... :hihi:

something other than stickied......damn you made me say it twice

[QUOTE=Mike P;475677]Many patrons don't spend anywhere near that. Many spend less than $50.
QUOTE]

I too want to say that I dont think anyone is questioning the fact that MSBA outs on a good show and they try their best for location etc. but the fact of the matter is it cost me a good chunk of change just to go. $25 in gas, $15 to get in (which wouldnt be bad if I knew MSBA was getting a big chunk of that but I doubt it...I am sure it goes to overhead) and I went alone...I cant imagine people bringing spouses or kids what they spend.... I am already spending $40 to get there and in the door. I spent $17.00 on lures/raffle ticket and $4.00 for a med coffee (and no it wasnt very good) I will admit when I got home I felt a little guilty/absurd for spending $60 and all I had to show for it was 2 lures.

I think I lost track of what my point really was but anyway I guess I just mean to say it can be a very expensive show to go to. Although a good show not a show I go to every year and the cost being a big reason why. Now I know not everyone has to drive 180 miles round trip like I did....but I am sure plenty of people had to factor gas$ like I did.

Now I know not everyone has to drive 180 miles round trip like I did....but I am sure plenty of people had to factor gas$ like I did.

Not me. I made my brother-in-law drive. lol

I did buy him a coffee and a bagel though...

I still think he got the better of the deal since last fall I drove to Wellfleet when we shrink wrapped his father's boat. My Expedition isn't very gasoline friendly....

I only live a couple of towns away from Foxboro so the ride wasn't a big deal for us. I don't know if I'd do 180 miles but I'd make a decent run to attend the show.

I'll say it again. The economics of these shows may not be great, but by this time every year I am gnawing on some braid so the shows; SWE,MSBA and RISAA, give me some relief. MSBA keep doin what you are doin and I'll show up. Hell I cut a deal with the Boss, we go to MSBA then we drive over to Wrentham Mall

The show is more social than it is anything else. Its fun to put names with faces and spend time with people that you have everything in common with. I didn't go or work it this year. My real job took precendence. Saving my vacation time for Booofishing in May, snd the first run.

I know many of my fellow clubmembers spent countless hours bringing the show to fruition. Wherever it is held it is an extraordinary undertaking. It will be interesting to see at the next meeting how successful the show was.

One more thing, I wouldn't pay $7.50 for beer if I was dying of thist or $4.00 for a medium coffee, that is made from concentrate, if someone was holding a gun to head.

I wonder if people complain about these prices on food and beer when the pats are palying the colts in a run for the superbowl....problably not because its expected.....

Also, you're talking about people who have the scratch to buy season tickets, for the most part. And many of them tailgate before the game, so I would imagine it's primarily beer sales. The more you buy, the less you feel the pain of the $15 for 2 passing to the counterman ;) After a couple of trips, you probably start leaving the fin in change from a $20 for a tip :D

I enjoyed the show as I have in years past at the Armory, Cordage and Kingston. Kudos to the MSBA for their hardwork in pulling this off.

With that said, I think those who say this is primarily a social event need to look a little deeper. If what you are looking for is a social event, fine, but that doesn't help the vendors who need to make enough $$ to justify their effort. Vendors need customers to buy product to make it worth their while and many people are attracted to the show not for social ties, or for that matter an interest in the social gathering, but to buy stuff.

Having people come and talk is great, but if the vendors don't sell anything, why bring the goods? Just go to a club meeting and hang out...

The danger I see for this expo is a downward spiral.

It was very evident to me that this year was significantly down in terms of vendors. Last year appeared (to me) to be down compared to the year before. I am now questioning whether I will go next year as their is less to look at and shop for. With lower attendance, fewer vendors will show up. It is a death spiral.

Also, those who say RISSA should be moved because they have only been doing it for 4 years are missing something called competition. Last I checked the RI show has 4-5 times the vendors as the MSBA show. Newer yes, but much bigger. I only have time for one show and if I had not been away next weekend, it would have been RI not the MA show.

Competition is what it is.

That said, I'm thrilled with my new CMS rod and assortment of RonZ plastics. I enjoyed Flaps presentation as well.

I think there has been a lot of honest feedback on this board that MSBA should listen to. If a social gathering is desired, fantastic. But if an expo with vendors is desired, there may be some trouble ahead.

great post cape codder
with all thats been said I'll add my .02......
I will attend anywhere the club does a show....but after 2 years, I don't think Gillette is the place for it...a free trade show, ya....but not if you have to spend all that coin and still not find an abundance of gear or deals.....bigger isnt alway better
I do understand finding space is an issue....but there is always a solution....kudos to Patrick and the crew....
THE SHOW MUST GO ON :)

Again....must reiterate......11 vendors cancelled Friday due to the weather....that roughly translates to 1/10th of the shows vendors......that is one reason things seemed lean! What do you think would happen to the RISSA show if the same thing happened? There would be cancellations and the show would be missing some vendors.

Remember....if you don't support these events...in good years and in bad....they will disappear.....then you will have something to complain about!

I want to thank the MSBA people for putting on a great show. My dad had a booth there for the first time this year (Laura-Jay Charters) and he was very happy. I was only there for the set-up, but the fact that there were 5 guys waiting at the loading dock all with dolleys waiting to help you transport your gear was impressive.
We saw a ton of people, sold almost all of the daisy chains I crimped up, overall it was a success. (Thanks to the pt Jude guys for loaning us an extra table, or my tuna gear would have been on the floor).
Normally we only do 3 shows, 2 small ones and RISAA. We'll definately be back next year.
That must be a ton of work with an all volunteer staff. Great Work guys.

I haven't been to the MSBA show since it moved to Gillete - not that I don't want to go but because I don't like "Big Venues". It was always my favorite show before it moved.
The RISAA show is a turn off for me - too big and what I shell out for parking and entry could buy a Beachmaster.
The SWE show is smaller - much more intimate - free parking, free entry. Hard to beat. Nice talking with a vendor without 10 guys looking over your shoulder. This show and Plugathon are my favorites. They give me the fix I need to get to casting time.

But success of various shows sometimes means expanding to a larger space - a real fine line here.

One thing is sure - the guys who put on these shows work their but off - they deserve lots of credit.

DZ

I enjoyed the show. A few great presentations, and some great custom gear got me worked up for the season. Plus talking w/#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&, made the $15.00 well worth the trip. Heck, $15.00 is less than a round of drinks at your favorite watering hole.
Great job MSBA, the show was fantastic.

The MSBA show was great thanks for all the people that stopped by the booth. Ya bigfish is right We cant afford to have this show dissapear. Its always been one of my favorites and i've attended it for years. Remember you got people like patrick doin all the organizing and johnny "cherrybeak " cherico setting up and everyone else that helps out. They do it for us not for them . Thanks for a great show see you next year no matter what SANTINI

Thats always been my thoughts DZ.
IF I'm not looking for a deal on a big ticket item, the parking and entrance at RISAA or other big shows just isn't worth it. A beachmaster?
Parking/Entrance is 1+Dozen eels or 4 Redfins on sale :D

The future of the MSBA Expo for next year will be in the hands of its membership at Wednesday nights meeting. Hopefully everyone will realize the value and importance of holding this event. I believe that without the weather we encountered just before the show, the expo would have been a huge success! We don't live in a perfect world, but everyone did everything possible to make sure that everyone had a great time and things went as smoothly as possible. The seminars were awesome and there was still a great variety of fishing equipment and charter services. I'm glad that all of the vendors that were present gave credit to all of the MSBA members that were there to help load and unload. I've never seen anyone work at anything as hard as Patrick did on this event. Hopefully, MSBA membership will take everything into consideration and agree that an expo next year would be the best thing for this club.