Courtesy photo by John McDonough The 59th Annual Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo will be held at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba, Michigan on July 9-10. Organizers believe this year’s convention should dwarf the crowds of past years, as trappers flock to the expo that was canceled in 2020. Above, guests peruse the 2019 event. Many of those in attendance in 2019 traveled hundreds of miles to attend.

ESCANABA — The 59th Annual Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo will be held at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba, Michigan on July 9-10. The expo and convention will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Trapping demos by some of the best trappers in the country will be held each day. On hand this year to give demos are: Jeff Dunlap (Dunlap Lures), Ed Schneider (Kansas Trap Lines), Lesel Reuwsaat (Freedom Outdoors TV), Red O’Hearn, Jeff Hagerty, and more.

Along with the educational portion, this family-friendly event offers lots to do and see. Organizers are expecting to fill two or three buildings with vendors and additional tailgaters will be outside selling and trading wares including not only the trapping supplies and outdoor sports gear, but crafters, quilters, and fishing supplies. Many vendors offer great “convention special” prices and when buying in person, as there are no shipping costs.

“We are thrilled to be hosting this event again, seeing that last year we were unable to put it on. I along with lots of others am really looking forward to it,” stated Randy Johnsen, a longtime member of U.P. Trappers. “It will be great to see what’s new out there, stock up on my supplies, learn from the best, and have a chance to meet old and make new friends and be around happy people. Hope to see you there.”

In addition, midway-style fair food will be available, and there will also be a Friday Night Fish Fry/Banquet/Fundraiser. A limited number of tickets will be sold, and there will be door prizes and raffles held during the event. For tickets or more information about the dinner or the expo in general, contact Convention Coordinator Roy Dahlgren at 906-399-1960 or trapperroy@outlook.com.

There is a cost to attend the convention, but a single ticket is good for both days. Youngsters under 12 are admitted at no charge.

Camping on the grounds is available, but anyone attending the event who prefers a hotel is advised to get a room early.