By Jim Kazakoff, Expo Committee Chairman

Organization and planning has begun for the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo, to be held Jan 6-7, 2023. This is the 18th annual expo since 2004, with one gap year in 2021 for COVID 19. If you have never attended an expo, then you should not miss this one. If you have attended an expo, don’t miss the chance to come learn something new. January is often a little cold to fish, but the perfect time to start thinking about fly fishing in the new year.

The Expo is the rendezvous of fly fishers and aspiring fly fishers in the Treasure Valley. We will have educational presentations from notable local and regional fly-fishing experts providing information on how to be better anglers, and on destination waters you will want to fish some day. There will be two demonstration casting ponds—a single-handed rod casting pond, and a two-handed or Spey rod pond, with tips from those in the know on how to improve your cast. The BVFF two-hand pond is a unique feature among fly fishing shows.

Some of the best fly tyers in the region will be on hand to demonstrate their skills, both in a presentation theater and in an informal one-on-one tying area. Up to 50 or more fly tyers will be present during the show. If you or a family member have never tied before, our First Time Fly Tyer area will be available, with assistance to help you tie your first fly.

Exhibitors at the event will include representatives from various fly-fishing tackle companies, where you can see and buy the latest equipment and gear, as well as possibly get a deal on this year’s close out items. Representatives from agencies and conservation organizations will be present to provide information on their organizations, and on the important work they are doing. BVFF will highlight the community and conservation projects we have been involved with, as well as the activities and benefits of the club. The expo is THE fly-fishing community event of the year in the Treasure Valley.

However, Expo is more than an educational event. The proceeds generated from this expo are necessary to fund the club operations and fly-fishing education, and more importantly, the conservation and community projects that BVFF has underway. BVFF has made significant contributions to the conservation of our shared waterways and resources, which ultimately is what allows us to enjoy our passion for fly fishing.

Be watching the website and social media for updates.

SPONSORSHIP and EXHIBITORS

To make the expo both a financial and public success it is critical that we secure sponsorships for the event, and fill the exhibitor booths with companies and organizations that are beneficial to the show. Sponsorships demonstrate support of the values, projects, and activities of BVFF, as well as providing company recognition. Companies and organizations that cannot sponsor but would like to be present at the expo by purchasing a booth are also being sought. If you own, know of, or have contacts at a company or organization that would be a great candidate as an expo sponsor or have interest in a booth, please contact me or an organizing committee member. ExpoChair@BVFF.com , or ExpoCommittee@BVFF.com.

EXPO VOLUNTEERS

The expo organizing committee is underway, but there are still a few unfilled positions, and time is short. We can use your help. If you cannot help the committee, we also will need volunteers during the week and days of the expo to staff the event. If you would like to help please call or send an email to ExpoVolunteers@BVFF.com.

The expo is always great fun.