I just received my copy of the BPS annual Premium Fishing Tackle Master Catalog 2010 in the mail today. As i browsed through the first two pages, I noticed a two page advertisement for the Fishing/Boat show classic that they have every FEB/MAR.

That got me wondering, do any of you plan for this annual trip and start saving for it?

This is a BIG yes for me!!!!

I go each year and I usually let the bait monkey steal about $500 from me on that trip for new reels, rods and if there is any money left, some tackle.  I am looking at buying either a new Shimano Curado or a Quantum Pro Tour baitcaster and a new St Croix Mojo rod.

I've been every year since there's been one within reasonable driving distance. The one's in Cincy and Clarksville are about 2 and a half hours from where I live. I prefer the Clarksville store. It's a yearly thing for me and some of my fishing buds. 

Well, since the nearest BPS store is about five miles from me, I expect that I will attend - several times.  ;D

Last year I managed to save my Christmas-gifted gift cards for the Classic and saved a good bit of money.  I think I will make it at least every other year from now on.

best time of the year to go up there, i save alot of money. i don know about you guys. but this year im buying my a new set up

Check your local store's seminar and demonstration

schedule. If I fish on Saturday, I usually spend most

of Sunday at the Memphis BPS. Bill Dance and a

number of local pros, guides and tournament fishermen

spend a lot of time in the store during the sale.

8-)

I might check it out this year.

I've been a few times in years past to the event that they had at the Springfield store.  It was fun - kinda.  You frequently had to wait a while to talk to the people you wanted to talk to and you got the feeling that they had heard your questions a few times before that day.

I learned more from the sales reps at different booths than I did from the various name pros in attendance.

I'm sure they will have some sort of event in the Independence or Olathe stores , (KC area), closer to where I live, attendance depends on what time I've got to work that day.

I think they do a good job of getting you psyched for the season and give you ideas for new stuff to try.

Check your local store's seminar and demonstration

schedule. If I fish on Saturday, I usually spend most

of Sunday at the Memphis BPS. Bill Dance and a

number of local pros, guides and tournament fishermen

spend a lot of time in the store during the sale.

8-)

Did you see Stacey King's demo last year?

No, the main event for me was Mike Whitten

demonstrating the Sworming Hornet.

8-)

I have two stores within an hours drive of me. I always attend both. Lots of reps you can leach items from. I'm such a slug. They give the stuff just to get me out of their hair.

The secret is to load a basket with lots of their stuff before you approach them. When done just shove the basket down an empty isle and take the freebies to the car. Then you make another run at another rep. Works like majic. LOL.

I look so forward to this every year! It helps break up the winter and gets me in the mood . And they have many great deals too.

I usually attend just because it gives me a reason to go to BPS.

That got me wondering, do any of you plan for this annual trip and start saving for it?

Yep.

In the Richmond, Virginia area, we are blessed with Green Top, Gander Mountain, BPS, Castaways, Dance's and the Richmond Fishing Expo, plus the two double secret tackle shops east of Richmond.

All have great sales during January and February.

In fact, if you attend the Richmond Fishing Expo, you have to visit Green Top before going home.  It is worth the trip.

Saving all BPS gift cards until their sale.

We also have Dick's Sporting Goods  but their fishing department and the guys who work it are not up to the level of Green Top, Castaways or Dance's.