The Off-Season Advantage: Planning Your Alaska Fishing Trip at These Must-Visit Fishing Shows & Expos

We may be sitting in the middle of the fishing offseason, but that doesn’t mean anglers are just sitting around thinking about the one that got away. Most are thinking about next season…that can include searching out new gear, checking out new fishing lodge options, and studying up on fishing techniques.

All of these off-season goals can be checked off by attending a fishing expo, or sportsmans show. Many great options are offered throughout the United States and internationally.

These shows are perfect for seasoned anglers or for those just getting into the sport. Some of the reasons people attend include:

• Skills and Learning: More than anything else, these shows are popular because they educate. Whether casting, tying, or help in planning a fishing trip, there are experts contributing real, hands-on information. Many have indoor ponds for the clinics or for anglers to discuss techniques.
• Face-to-Face Discussions: Many experts from lodges and outfitters will exhibit to show what they offer to visitors. Nowhere else will you be able to shake hands with guides to discuss your fishing interests, experience and what you want from a trip.
• Innovation in Fishing Gear: Fly-fishing technology isn’t standing still. These events are where new rods, lines, materials and tools are shown for the first time and will typically let you get your hands on them and try them out.
• Community: These events let anglers connect with other anglers while also giving attendees opportunities to learn about social opportunities and conservation groups. They help anglers feel more a part of the culture and improve the future experience for everybody putting a line in the water.

Fishing Shows Photos - Courtesy of Alaska Trophy Adventures Fishing Lodge

Fishing Shows & Expos to Consider Attending

Below are a few of the more well known and unique shows coming up again in 2026. There are also many regional and international shows available with similar opportunities.

The Fly-Fishing Show(multi-city tour, early 2026)

One of the most prominent consumer events, this show has stops in MA, NJ, CO, WA, CA and PA between January and March. It’s beneficial for anglers looking to sharpen their skills and check out the newest gear.

We haven’t been able to get to one but Wayne from Alaska Trophy Adventures will be exhibiting at these shows for the third consecutive year in 2026. Wayne says these are now a ‘must do’ part of their annual calendar. He continued, “These is no better way for us as an Alaskan Fishing Lodge to meet potential guests. Every year we see dozens of new bookings as a result of interactions with attendees of these shows!”. It’s that face-to-face conversation that helps anglers realize the experience they will have at Alaska Trophy Adventures.

What to Expect: over 150 booths showcasing rods, reels, guide services, teaching materials, clothing, and destination lodges. Each show has a learning center offering free instruction in casting, fly tying, and more with an option to sign up for more detailed, one-on-one, coaching from technique experts.

Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo - Garden City, ID January 30-31, 2026

A good example of a more regional event, for over twenty years the Boise Valley Fly Fishers has hosted this expo. It’s filled with educational opportunities and over 60 exhibitors from gear companies, guides, and outfitters.

What to Expect: A great opportunity to learn with more one-on-one conversation potentials. The expo emphasizes learning for both beginner and advanced anglers and includes an indoor casting pond for trying out fly rods and live demonstrations from expert anglers.

Note on Regional Events: There are many regional events similar to this one, smaller crowds and often single day events but with experts that may know the regional fishing experience better than larger events. Be sure to check out your local options as well.

Virginia Wine and Fly-Fishing Festival - Doswell, VA January 8th thru 10th, 2026

A unique event that combines an opportunity to learn about fly-fishing while tasting wines and craft beer. This is a beginner friendly event but one that also provides good information for the seasoned angler.

This is another show that Alaska Trophy Adventures has exhibited at, having been there for almost ten years now. Wayne of ATA Lodge described it as a fantastic event and “a great opportunity to meet interested anglers from the region and share what we have to offer”. He added that “we have welcomed many guests to ATA Lodge over the years as a direct result of this show!”.

What to Expect: A family friendly event that is focused on education and introducing people of all ages to new outdoor experiences.

International Sportsmens Expo - Denver (Jan 2026), Sacramento (Jan 2026), Salt Lake (Mar 2026)

Many anglers like other aspects of outdoor sports and “sportsmens” shows like these give you access to fishing information as well as other outdoor recreational activities. These specific sportsmens shows are four days and offer info on gear and techniques for fishing, hunting, boating, RV’ing, and camping.

What to Expect: a bit of everything, great if you are interested in a wide variety of outdoor recreational sports. They do have many fishing related lodges, guides and educational opportunities for those focused on fishing.

Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention & Sporting Expo - Atlanta ( February 6-8, 2026 )

The DSC Convention & Sporting Expo (February 6-8, 2026, in Atlanta) features numerous outfitters offering exclusive show specials for exotic fishing adventures to destinations like Alaska, Costa Rica, and the Amazon, plus local fishing opportunities. It's an excellent opportunity for anglers to connect with outfitters and secure deals on world-class fishing trips.

What to Expect: Expect three days of world-class outfitters offering show specials on exotic fishing trips (Alaska, Costa Rica, Amazon) alongside hunting and outdoor gear exhibitors, premier banquets and auctions, and family-friendly programming—all while supporting wildlife conservation. Great opporunity to meet up with Jimmie Jack's Alaska Fishing Lodges at the DSC Expo this is one of their favorite shows of the year to attend!

Photos from DSC Sporting Expo Below | Visit Jimmie Jacks Alaska Fishing Lodge at the DSC Sporting Expo in Atlanta this February!

Tips for Attending a Fly-Fishing Expo:

• Plan Ahead: Check the shows website for class schedules and registration in case popular seminars require pre-registration.
• Bring Your Gear: If you’re thinking about upgrading or testing rods, then come ready to cast. Many shows have casting ponds or demo areas.
• Network: Don’t just visit booths – talk to tyers, guides, and other anglers at the show. These are prime opportunities to make connections and learn from others.
• Support Conservation: Some shows promote donations and regional volunteering opportunities to help fishing be good for years to come. Look into options in advance.

So, whether you are just looking to get into fly-fishing or are a veteran of casting, many events throughout the ‘offseason’ are available to learn about technique, gear and potential guides or lodges to check out for a future trip. These events also give you an opportunity to connect with other anglers and learn from their experiences.