Feb. 28: Find fun and sun at Franklin Boat Show

The Franklin Boat, Sport and Travel Show, scheduled Feb. 27-29, is a great way to escape the winter chill with visions of “fun in the sun.”

Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or not, for less than the cost of a movie and popcorn, you get a full day of fun the whole family will enjoy. The Franklin Boat, Sport and Travel Show bursts with things for the boater, the fisherman, the hunter, kids and families, including:

Hunters! Listen to Greg Poole’s method for “battling the king of spring,” and Mike McLemore — champion of champions game caller — as he offers a bit of “insider” information.

Fishermen! Turn your catfishing experiences into having the “Best Jugs on the Lake” with advice from “BubbaJug” himself, Tim Garrett. Discover how to find fish through GPS topographical mapping with Pat Hahs from Kentucky Hydrographx. Jim Duckworth, professional guide, lends insight on “Fishing Tennessee,” and Steve McCadams will share a bit of his “Crappie Wisdom.”

Boaters! Shop dealers from four states sporting watercraft and recreational vehicles for families, campers, hunters and fishermen!

Families! Catch Miss Tennessee 2003 Jamie Watkins for autographs and candid photos, play in the big, inflated Dandee Jumper, ride the mechanical bull, bungee jump on the huge trampoline, compete on the micro-reality race track or play in the Kids Zone!

Kids under 6 are admitted free at the show, and ages 6-12 are only $2.50, but what may be more important is that a boat show can pique the imagination. A special free admission time from HeavyWeight Promotions is “Family/Senior Day.” All children 12 and under (with an accompanying adult), and all seniors over 65 attend the show at no charge. “Family/Senior Day” is Friday, Feb. 27, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Going to an outdoor show helps get the adrenaline going and provides a way to “connect” to the woods and waters. Treat the show as a day of entertainment, with promises of sun to come.

Outdoor shows also are a great venue for learning about boats and all the options that are available. A one-stop showcase for all the latest and greatest the industry has to offer, including gear, electronics and, of course, boats of every size, shape, color and price. But unlike consumer car shows that simply exhibit new models and concepts, outdoor shows are a great forum to look, feel and actually make a purchase.

Dealers from four states gather to exhibit products for every avid outdoor enthusiast. On display you’ll find pontoon boats, deck boats, bass boats, johnboats, fishing boats, “camo” duck boats, all-terrain vehicles, an abundance of tackle, GPS mapping software for assistance finding fish, lawn and garden tractors, the new four-wheel drive all-terrain vehicles, outdoor publications and an extensive variety of other exhibitors all there for “show and sell.” Most everyone agrees, in the middle of winter, it’s a great activity to chase away the blues.

The Franklin Boat, Sport and Travel Show will be at the Williamson County Ag Expo Park, located at Exit 61 (Peytonsville Road) off Interstate 65 in Franklin. Open Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday from noon-6 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $2.50 for children ages 6-12; children under 6 admitted free.

For exhibitor information, call (800) 225-7469. For more information about the show, listing of features and attractions, current schedule of events and printable discount admission coupons, visit www.FranklinBoatShow.com.