Indiana Fishing Expo

The Indiana Fishing Expo is Indiana's only pure fishing show, held annually at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds in Danville, Indiana. It features over 150 vendors focused exclusively on fishing gear and related products for all species, drawing anglers from across the Midwest. The expo is family-friendly, with adults paying a $6 admission fee and children 12 and under admitted free. It is fully handicap accessible with free parking available.

The event typically runs over two days, from 9 AM to about 6 PM on Saturday and until mid-afternoon on Sunday. For example, the 2026 expo is scheduled for January 31 to February 1, with Saturday hours 9 AM - 6 PM and Sunday 9 AM - 4 PM. The 2024 edition was held on February 3-4 with similar hours. The expo is hosted in the Conference Center at the fairgrounds, providing a central indoor location for the various activities.

The atmosphere at the Indiana Fishing Expo is highly specialized and community-driven, focusing strictly on fishing-related products and experiences. The organizers do not allow vendors unrelated to outdoor and fishing activities, ensuring a focused, quality experience. The event prides itself on housing the best local tackle makers and small tackle shops, alongside bigger names in the industry when possible.

Activities and Features:

• Over 150 vendors showcasing fishing gear for every species, including local custom baits, lures, tackle shops, guide services, and more.
• Seminars led by professional fishermen and guides, covering various topics such as crappie, bass, musky fishing, and kayak fishing.
• Hourly giveaways for ticket holders during the expo.
• Opportunities to interact with industry experts and learn new fishing techniques.
• Vendor booths allowing attendees to purchase gear and gain fishing advice.

Typical Rough Schedule (Example from recent years):

• Saturday:
  • 9:00 AM: Expo opens
  • Midday to afternoon: Seminars on various fishing subjects (crappie, bass, musky, kayak fishing)
  • 6:00 PM: Expo closes
• Sunday:
  • 9:00 AM: Expo opens
  • Afternoon seminars or vendor demonstrations
  • 4:00 PM: Expo closes

Location Surroundings and Vibe:

The Hendricks County Fairgrounds is located in Danville, a central Indiana town known for its welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. The fairgrounds provide ample free parking and easy access to nearby towns such as Avon, Brownsburg, and Plainfield, where accommodations are plentiful. The event's vibe is specialized and enthusiasts-focused, with a friendly Midwestern fishing culture ambiance. The area and venue create a comfortable setting for anglers to explore new gear, learn, and socialize.

History and Founding:

The Indiana Fishing Expo relocated to the Hendricks County Fairgrounds in 2022, becoming the Midwest's prominent fishing-only show in the region. The expo has a strong commitment to outdoor and fishing-related vendors only, reflecting a long-standing focus on quality and specialization. Over time, it has grown to feature the best local and regional fishing tackle providers and guides, cementing its status as a must-attend event for serious anglers.

In summary, the Indiana Fishing Expo is a highly focused, engaging two-day event offering extensive fishing gear, expert seminars, community interaction, and a friendly, outdoorsy atmosphere in central Indiana.