ESCANABA — The 55th annual Upper Peninsula Trappers Convention returns to Escanaba Friday and Saturday at the Ruth Butler Building at the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds.

The convention will feature vendors, presentations from experts in trapping and fur handling, food, refreshments, games and more. The event will kick-off on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and continue into Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 with children 12 and under admitted free. Camping will also be available on the grounds.

According to District 3 President and Convention Coordinator for U.P. Trappers Roy Dahlgren, the list of presenters for this year’s convention is sure to draw people in.

“We’re expecting right around 3,000 people this year,” said Dahlgren.

Professional trappers and outdoorsmen from across the United States that will be at the convention include Les Johnson, Lesel Reuswaat, Harry Nestell, John Chagnon, Jeff Dunlap, Rusty Johnson, and Rich Clark. Gregg Schroeder, of Fur Harvesters Auction, will also be displaying furs outside the Ruth Butler Building.

Dahlgren explained that each trapping/outdoor expert will be bringing their own expertise to the two-day event, including information about winter trapping, capturing certain species of animal, and proper fielding of various wildlife.

“It’s become one of the best shows in the midwest,” said Dahlgren, adding 12 vendors at the convention have their own television shows.

For complete biographies about the presenters, visit www.uptrappers.com.

Dahlgren said free fishing will be offered for children at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Pocket Park pond, along with prizes and mini raffles. Kids can also enjoy archery, pellet guns, and other activities while at the Pocket Park, noted Dahlgren.

“We’ve had over 400 kids (participate) each year,” said Dahlgren. “They have a ball.”

Over the years, Dahlgren said the convention has been trying to grow into an overall outdoor show.

Next year, Dahlgren said the national trappers convention will be making its way to the Escanaba area, adding this event will host around 10,000.

“We’ve got some big surprises,” said Dahlgren of the national convention.

For more information about the U.P. Trappers Convention, contact Dahlgren at (906) 399-1960 or by email trapperroy@outlook.com