On Wednesday, March 3, the Fred Hall Fishing Tackle & Boat Show in Long Beach begins at the Convention and Entertainment Center. The biggest event of its kind in the west, this show features new products, famous personalities, plenty of food, lectures and displays about methods and techniques anglers need to learn.

The big show is a great family-style event, with plenty to appeal to kids as well as grownups. If you haven't made plans or obtained tickets, now's a good time to start. While you're there, many tackle sellers will compete for your attention with some excellent deals on items to help you bag that catch you've been wanting to make.

If you're thinking of fishing this spring or summer, travel agencies and resorts will be set up to talk with you. Major south coast sportfishing landings will have booths there as well. The boats of San Diego's long range fleet will be well-represented, individually or by their landings. Stop by your favorites, have a chat and a look at their displays, and sign up early for the trip you've been daydreaming about.

The Long Beach show runs through Sunday, March 7. If you can't make it, you'll get a second chance when The Fred Hall Show comes to San Diego March 24 through 28 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.