By Meredith Gardner
meredith.gardner@theindependent.com

In its second year, the show will make a stop at Grand Island's Heartland Events Center today, Saturday and Sunday.

A featured attraction is a 5,000 gallon, 45-foot, see-through fish tank, which has been filled with 23 large-mouth bass.

The tank will be used for bait and tackle exhibitions held every two hours, during which exhibitors can show how the fish follow the bait.

Also on display are dozens of boats and campers, which will be accompanied by factory representatives giving special deals on sales, said Dick Johnson, the show's organizer.

While last year's show had representatives from about a dozen vacation destinations, this year there are booths for 44 hunting lodges, fishing resorts and other vacation spots.

Since it's still early in the year, now's a good time to book a vacation, especially with resort spokespeople on hand to answer questions.

With a favorable weather forecast this weekend, Johnson said he predicts the show will bring in a good crowd, with attendees from throughout Central Nebraska and neighboring states.

New this year will be free seminars by three experts in fishing and dog training.

Nationally known sport dog trainer Tom Dokken of Northfield, Minn., will speak about training methods at 1, 4 and 8 p.m. Saturday and at 2 and 4 p.m. Sunday.

Renee "CatDaddy" Shumway of Topeka, Kan., will discuss catfish fishing techniques at 2 and 6 p.m. Friday; at noon, 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday; and at 3 p.m. Sunday.

"Jigmeister" Daryl Christensen of Montello, Wis., will give seminars on walleye fishing at 4 and 8 p.m. Friday; at 11 a.m., 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday; and at 1 p.m. Sunday.

With all the vendors present at the Heartland Events Center, this weekend will be a perfect time for families to come explore, get tips on some of their favorite recreational activities and plan a trip, Johnson said.

"They can come here and book their vacation and get it all done here," he said.