Who's ready for the Discover Boating® Northwest Sportshow® (in partnership with Progressive® Insurance)? Because it's returning to the Minneapolis Convention Center on March 14–17, 2024.
With hundreds of boats on display and entertaining attractions for the whole family, this iconic event is the place to be.
Stay tuned as our official Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow guide reveals what to expect and our recommended attractions.
Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow Guide
With so much to see and do, navigating the Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow can feel overwhelming. That's why we've prepared this official guide to lead the way:
1. Shop for Boats and Outdoor Gear
As the Upper Midwest's premier outdoors show, there's no better place to gear up for your boating, fishing, and hunting adventures before the season opens.
Along with hundreds of new boats, you'll find the latest in marine electronics, fishing tackle, rods and reels, docks and lifts, hunting and outdoor gear all under one roof! And if your outdoor adventure plans include travel, you can also book trips with outfitters, guides, resorts, and lodges from the U.S., Canada, Africa, and Central America.
2. Enjoy the Super Thursday Special
Want to score a great deal on tickets and avoid the weekend crowds? Our Super Thursday (3/14) $5 after 5 can't be beaten. Don't miss the chance to enjoy $5 admission, discounted parking, and plenty of food and drink specials to go around—all beginning at 5 pm.
3. Grab a Bite at the Walleye Fish Fry
Your Friday night plans are set! Head to the show on 3/15 to enjoy four pieces of beer-battered walleye with tartar sauce and lemon. While supplies last, take advantage of the following deals:
Walleye only—$11.75 plus tax
Walleye basket with chips—$13.75 plus tax
Walleye basket with fries—$15.75 plus tax.
4. Check Out the Extreme Raptors Show
Visit Booth 102 to learn about birds of prey—eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls—and experience the beauty and charisma of feathered predators. Master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator Jonathan Wood will share the exciting history of falconry in a show filled with action, music, and comedy.
5. Watch Pro Anglers at Hawg Trough
Any anglers in the house? If so, gather around this 5,000-gallon aquarium (stocked with native Minnesota species) and watch the pros demonstrate their fishing and casting skills. It's the perfect opportunity to get a first-hand look at how fish react to various fishing techniques, baits, and lures.
6. Stop by Fred’s Shed How-To Center (Presented by Progressive® Insurance)
Are you having maintenance troubles, engine issues, or any other nautical questions you need the answers to before boating season? Bring them by Fred's Shed How-To Center, and our tech experts will gladly help. This free resource is a Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow staple and will help you prepare for the boating season ahead.
7. Sharpen Those Fishing Skills
Want to improve your catch? Fishing 101 in Booth 102 covers basic fishing skills for every kind of angler. Get ready to cast for big fish at LUNDker Lake and test your casting accuracy at Backyard Flipping (shoutout to the Lund Boat Fishing Pros and Student Angler Tournament Trail Coaches). Then, youngsters will walk away with a free fishing coloring book or a game of fish bingo!
8. Catch-and-Release Fish at Trout Pond
Catch-and-release fishing is a fantastic way to introduce youngsters to the joys of fishing. Because you throw everything back, there’s no limit to the fun!
9. Hang Out at the Up North Boat Club
What boat show is complete without a space to kick back and relax? Stop by Booth 103 to enjoy a bite to eat and drink while hanging with your crew at our Minnesota-inspired oasis.
10. Explore the Ducks Unlimited Room
Did you know that Ducks Unlimited works to conserve wetlands and protect waterfowl in Minnesota? If not, stop by the Ducks Unlimited room! Not only can you support their conservation mission with silent auctions, raffles, and more, but there will be free duck decoy paintings for the kids.
11. Create a Crankbait
Crafty young anglers will love creating crankbaits using hard plastic crankbait bodies. (Shoutout Tips Outdoors.) Get ready for quick-dry professional paints and stick-on lure eyes galore!
Ticket Information
Has this Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow guide piqued your interest? Fantastic! You can purchase tickets online for $13 per person ($15 on-site). In addition, all children 12 years and younger are free when accompanied by an adult.
Parking Information
Are you planning on driving to the show? Convenient parking options are located around the Minneapolis Convention Center, with prices ranging from $5 to $15. Additionally, the skyway system makes getting from your car to the show ultra-easy.
For more information about the Discover Boating Northwest Sportshow, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Also, remember to tag our accounts and use these hashtags for a chance to be featured on our channels: #NWSpotshow #NorthwestSportshow #DiscoverBoating.
