Fred Hall LB! What did you get?

[jbl_91762]

Originally Posted by dpricenator

I had never been to the Fred Hall Expo, but knew what to expect.....sort of.
Used to do some work at the Action Sports Expo in SD, when I was going to SDSU. I talked my wife into going Sunday afternoon. Being the last day of the show was hoping for some blow out deals, and the show did not disappoint.

200+ stickers, I love me some stickers, and so do my kids. Best to go earlier in the show because a lot of booths were out.
a couple Kicker Jigs
a couple 187 Jigs
Some Ultralight Heavthitters (HookUp Bait Style lures) 5 for $10, really nice colors on them.
A bottle of Ghost Shrimp Butter from NewFishAll.

I was tempted at some rods, but that'll have to wait, as I just grabbed a couple Seekers on Craigslist.

It was really cool to see all the guys I have been emailing, over the last few months. The guys from 187 are right up my alley. Not many people recognize a Ben Davis Shirt, and know the significance.
And Kent from NewFishAll was also very nice to have remembered my little email question from a month back.

I need to start saving my nickels and dimes, because the boat I want is going to be roughly 200k, once delivered.


Anyway, What did you get?

Learned a lot from a few seminars especially from the bass tourney guys but wish I was there on weekend to hear the Sewer guys. picked up Sibiki's, hookup baits finally and line.

How do you compare the hookup baits (expensive) to the ultralite heavyhitter you scoured on? MIssed that one.

I was looking for light action spinning rods but didn't really see much.

[Mahigeer]

1-Mr. Jim Sammons was kind enough to autograph my copy of kayak fishing book.


Would love to fish with him at Cedros Island.



2-I worked the booth at Cedros Outdoor Adventures during the show.


The grand master of reel repair, Sensei Alan Tani stopped by the booth to see us and make a video recording of Jose (the owner) about the package trips that they offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6VJH_rs0yE



I am going this summer on one. Not sure when yet.



I bought a shirt and a new version of a lobster bait box.

[dpricenator]

Originally Posted by jbl_91762

Learned a lot from a few seminars especially from the bass tourney guys but wish I was there on weekend to hear the Sewer guys. picked up Sibiki's, hookup baits finally and line.

How do you compare the hookup baits (expensive) to the ultralite heavyhitter you scoured on? MIssed that one.

I was looking for light action spinning rods but didn't really see much.

I have not tried them yet, but the plastic seems a bit thicker, tougher. And I mean just a bit, not much of a change. If I handed you one or the other you would be hard pressed to tell me which was which. He also has a version with the tail end cut into ribbons like grass skirt. The only this is that the weight caps out at 5/8 oz. The larger sizes are better for us when we are out deep, but in the harbors these will be fine. I would say they will be right on par with the HookUp Bait, as far as build quality go.

Kind of like the differences between a Tady Jig and a Salas, or Kicker, or 187, or, or, or.....

[Iceman]

unless I missed it, no mention at all in this thread of kayaks or kayak fishing accessories. Think we made the right call in not setting up at Fred Hall this year.

[dpricenator]

Originally Posted by Iceman

unless I missed it, no mention at all in this thread of kayaks or kayak fishing accessories. Think we made the right call in not setting up at Fred Hall this year.

Only Kayaks I saw there were at the Hobie both. For what it is worth.

[Hunters Pa]

Originally Posted by Iceman

unless I missed it, no mention at all in this thread of kayaks or kayak fishing accessories. Think we made the right call in not setting up at Fred Hall this year.

One of the things I like to look at is general level of spending, perhaps as an indicator of consumer confidence and the economy. Spending seemed to be down a bit over last year. Show specials were very similar to last year.

No political commentary implied or intended.

I think it was a good call, especially if you got a good turnout at your sales the week before. Maybe a coupon/ad in the CCA book would generate some outside traffic to the shops? I think Pacific Edge took that approach.

[goldenglory18]

Originally Posted by Iceman

unless I missed it, no mention at all in this thread of kayaks or kayak fishing accessories. Think we made the right call in not setting up at Fred Hall this year.

As soon as my Ride sells you'll be getting a call....

[ProfessorLongArms]

Originally Posted by Iceman

unless I missed it, no mention at all in this thread of kayaks or kayak fishing accessories. Think we made the right call in not setting up at Fred Hall this year.

There was a *bit*. Hobie had an outdoor setup but it was raining outside.
There were two kayak dealers with hobie displays inside, and Brooklyn Kayaks were there.
Was interesting to see one up close.
I'm still kind of curious how they stack up against more expensive brands.