show season, and the state of the economy?

[keeperreaper]

Originally Posted by Uncle Matt

I'm willing to bet that some tackle vendors won't be doing some of the shows this year. With the internet being what it is and the costs of space at these shows being what it is, I can see some dealers pulling out. And I expect the boat dealers will bring fewer new boats with them and they will be pushing used boats.

I agree totally. Disposable income just doesn't exist for many. Look at all the boat manufacturers who closed up shop. It is depressing.

[fishonnelsons]

In the middle of Winter, a chance to get out and stretch your legs, have a few beers while browsing and BS'ing with your buds, people will still go to the shows.

What they buy will be another story - a custom, hard to get plug here and there, "maybe" a rod or reel that is such a deal they can't resist it, after that I don't know.

The boat dealers should be out in full force - maybe they won't bring as many boats, and cut down on the booth size, but their pencils will be working should anyone walk up and really start to talk seriously. Patience is the key now if you are looking for a boat - there will be great new and used boats available.

[spinncognito]

Looks like this year I will be able to afford the gas to get down to the shows!

[afterhours]

the risaa show always has great attendance. even in a bad economy people will want to treat thier cabin fever by going to the shows, it's still a cheap date. i think that big ticket items may be affected but our oc'd brethren will always need plugs, line, etc. heck most fishermen i know would rather buy gear than eat. belt tightening is a reality but we still gotta feed our addiction.
ps: where else can you get AH dannys, polaris', jointeds, eel skin plugs...

[Raven]

growing up as kids our mom's would always reward us with cookies, a slice of cake or some other edible treat...

now as adults our feel good food is Plugs ....rods, reels
and other assorted gear....

[MikeToole]

If the show has good speakers I think they will still bring in a real crowd. They don't really need to be big names if there are a bunch of them. The better shows MSBA had years back always included presentations by unknown members who were knowledgeable in specific areas. I always enjoyed these the most. I stopped going to Worcester years ago because it never changed, even the speakers. This type of show may see a real decline because it's main focus is expensive trips.

I think the price of custom plugs may come back to the land of reality. I've noted that some of the beachmaster plugs that were selling for 50 or 60 area are now easy to obtain for 30. That is still more then I'm willing to pay but it is a sign of what may be coming.

[Nebe]

when times are tough, the tough eat

[stripercrazy]

I allway look at the show as a social thing and a way to beat shipping....lure parts..a fancy painted plug from afterhours or salty...maybe a hat... probly a 100 bucks gone for the day anyway... the only question would be what show probly the biggest or I'll look at who's going to be there...who cares about house sideing and non fishing stuff