It’s that time of year again; boaters, anglers, water enthusiasts and everyone in between start getting the jitters. Visions of outboard motors, top-notch kayaks, special discounts, and fishing gear dance in our heads. No, it’s not Christmas, but some might even argue that it’s better. It’s the West Coast’s largest commercial fishing and marine industry trade show; it’s the 2018 Pacific Marine Expo, held at CenturyLink Stadium in Seattle, and registration is now open.
The dates are set for November 18-20, three days later than usual due to a Seahawks vs. Green Bay Packers game on Thursday, November 15. Jessica Hathaway, Editor in Chief of National Fisherman, explains that the Expo “will have all the show specials, must-attend conferences, contests and a show floor packed with everything you need to run your business in 2019.”
The Expo will feature the Alaska Hall, product demonstrations, the King County Maritime Economic Forecast Breakfast, the Fisherman of the Year contest, a career day for students, performances by Fisher Poets, and a special Fishermen’s Lounge in addition to its hundreds of exhibitors. Over 6,000 visitors perused the goods, gear, and gadgets at last year’s event, and Event Director for Diversified Communications (the Expo’s producers) Denielle Christensen is hopeful once again for this year. “With the continued growth and strength of the West Coast fishing and workboat industries,” She states, “We expect another outstanding year in 2018.”
This year’s theme is “Just Add Water,” because as Christensen explains, “the show offers everything for those in the commercial fishing and marine industries under one roof. She continues, “If you make your living on the water, you just can’t afford to miss this show.”
If you’re wondering whether or not you should exhibit, think about the 6,000-plus visitors from last year’s event and ask yourself, “Do I just need to add water?” If you’re interested in exhibiting, contact Chris Dimmerling, sales director, at cdimmerling@divcom.com or 207-842-5666. For more information and updates on the Expo, visit pacificmarineexpo.com.
