National and local boat, tackle and fishing accessory vendors will mingle with fishing experts sharing their expertise when the Florida Sportsman Fishing Show takes over the Okaloosa County Fairgrounds February 26-27.

Nonstop shallow-water seminars by local and state experts such as surf-fishing guru Nick Meyer and captains Pat Dineen, Scott Lindsey, Ray Markham and Mark Nichols at the 10,000-gallon Inshore Stage will give you a break from shopping and prep you for the approach of spring’s warming water and hungry inshore species. Captains Jim Roberson, Shawn Mecchella, John Holley, Rick Ryals, Mike Flowers and Mike Eller will get you ready for the upcoming invasion of cobia, kingfish and the start of the red snapper season.

Stop by the West Marine Inshore and Offshore Riggin’ It Right Academy booths for personalized, hands-on instruction in bait selection and rigging, knot tying and bottom-fishing techniques. Clip a $2-off coupon from the latest issue of FloridaSportsman magazine. For a complete list of show activities, seminar schedules and discount coupons, check out www.floridasportsman.com/shows/panhandle.

FS