DULUTH, MN. (Northern News Now) — Thousands of outdoor sports fans are heading to the DECC’s Duluth Sport Show, eager to get outside and use this year’s latest gadgets.

“We are looking at an early spring which means big sales, a lot of people buying boats, a lot of people on the water,” said Jarrid Houston, a partner with Lund Boat Company.

The arena containing some of the area’s most popular boat brands was packed with people shopping Friday, but when it comes taking one home, it’s a different story.

“There are a lot of people that do hold-overs, or what we call last year’s production boats,” said Houston.

Hold-over Lund boats are cheaper than the latest models, but they can still fair a considerable price. However, the popular boat vendor has been able to sell up to two dozen boats at the show each year due to their close relationships with loan companies.

“Whether it’s North Shore Bank or any other local establishments around the Twin Ports, everybody is here to help each other out,” said Houston.

Some anglers were busy looking at ways to get themselves on the water, but others decided to look at guided fishing trips.

“We are right at about $600 per day for a guide trip. Last year was at about $550,” said Ryan Fehn, a fishing guide.

Even with the price increase, Ryan Fehn still gets a quarter of his customers to sign up at the show.

“People still got to fish; they enjoy their free time,” said Fehn. “People work hard and look to take guided fishing trips.”

Whatever items they are selling, vendors working at the Duluth Sport Show are eager to help anglers and outdoor sports fans get outside as early as possible.

The Duluth Sport Show goes through Sunday Feb. 18.

For the full schedule, click here.

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