October is a relative plateau on the calendar before a fast, precipitous drop into the busyness of November and December. By the time you skid to  manageable pace in the new year you’re playing catch up while also gasping for breath. And, for much of the country, this is being done underneath a blanket of heavy snow.

This is why I am a big advocate of nailing down some early year priorities this far in advance. Potential vacations, house projects, and kids’ sports can (and should) be penciled in three months in advance. While you’re at it, make sure you block off a weekend for the closest stop on the nationwide tour of The Fly Fishing Show.

Outdoor expos are an excellent way to spend a cold Saturday in January. They serve as launch pads for trips, skill goals, and general enthusiasm for the coming angling season. There are numerous local fly fishing  shows and larger events that include fly fishing, but The Fly Fishing Show is the marquee expo in the US.

Check out the lineup of shows for 2024 below, and start making plans today to get out to a great indoor fly fishing event:

Marlborough, MA
January 5, 6, 7

Denver, CO
January 19, 20, 21

Edison, NJ
January 26, 27, 28

Atlanta, GA
February 2, 3, 4

Bellevue, WA
February 17, 18

Pleasanton, CA
February 23, 24, 25

Lancaster, PA
March 2, 3

To buy tickets or to learn more, head to The Fly Fishing Show’s website.