Five Reasons to Reel in Outdoor Fun at the 2014 Progressive Insurance Northwest Sportshow

Put winter to bed and get ready for fresh air adventure with new Swampmaster Gator Show, tips from outdoors' biggest TV stars and fun for all ages

Minneapolis, Minn. February 27, 2014 The 2014 Progressive Insurance Northwest Sportshow lands the biggest catches in outdoors entertainment, education, and family fun as the Minneapolis Convention Center transforms into the great outdoors March 26 30. In addition to shopping deals on the newest boats, RVs, travel destinations, fishing gear, electronics, and more, theres a variety of opportunities to brush up on any outdoors skill through dozens of free clinics and enjoy several new attractions.

Here are the top reasons why this years annual sportshow is a cure for spring fever:

1. Get up close to an alligator, visit Duck Dynasty Star. Meet the seasons top catches in entertainment including expert alligator handler Jeff Quattrocchi as he entertains and educates visitors on how alligators react in their natural environment, andJohn Godwin, star of A&Es number one series Duck Dynasty, who makes a special appearance on Saturday, March 29 from 2-4p.m. and 6-8p.m. Kids can also make their own duck decoys at the Ducks Unlimited Room.
2. Learn from 2014 Bassmaster Classic Champion Randy Howell, try fly fishing, and bring the kids to fish. On opening day at 2:00pm and 6:00pm, 2014 Bassmaster Classic Champion Randy Howell presents All About Crankbaits, a special seminar to give fans the know-how needed to hook the big one. Fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels can also sharpen their knowledge during free seminars from other fishing greats including Jon Thelen and Terry Tuma, plus receive expert fly fishing instruction casting a line in an indoor pool. The kids can practice their angling skills at the popular indoor trout pond.
3. Get geeky with newest gadgets at the new Marine Electronics University sponsored by Lowrance. Learn by doing as an expert from Lowrance leads hands-on workshops covering everything from routine setup and product use to news about leading technologies.
4. Family adventure begins at the Sportshow. Kids can learn about the great outdoors with the Adventure Trail Pass, an interactive, educational way to explore the show, while adults can plan their next vacation through a variety of seminars, outfitters and exhibitors offering insight and sales to some of the best destinations in the upper Midwest, Alaska, Montana, Canada and beyond.

Tickets are $11.00 for adults, children 15 and under get in FREE when accompanied by an adult. Active Military get in FREE with a valid military ID. Purchase a ticket online and your E-Ticket includes a one-year subscription to Yachting Magazine, Motor Boating, Field & Stream, Boating or Cruising World (a $7 value).

For more information and updated seminar and event schedules, visit NorthwestSportshow.com follow the show on Twitter and Facebook.

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