Daily Press file photo Attendees of the 2019 Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo look over goods in this file photo. After being canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, the event returns to Escanaba this Friday and Saturday.

ESCANABA — The 59th Annual Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo will be held at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba Friday and Saturday. Hours are 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, the family-friendly event offers lots to do and see. “We are expecting to fill two or three buildings with vendors and additional tailgaters will be outside selling and trading wares. This includes not only the trapping supplies and outdoor sports gear, but crafters, quilters, fishing supplies, etc. Everyone’s favorite fair food will be available. A great place to see what’s new in the outdoor gear world and to stock up on supplies. Many vendors offer great convention special prices and when buying in person there is no shipping,” organizers said.

There will be a Friday Night Fish Fry/Banquet/Fundraiser. Contact Convention Coordinator Roy Dahlgren at (906) 399-1960 for more information. There will also be food, door prizes and raffles.

There is an admission fee for both days and children 12 and under are admitted free. Camping is available on the grounds.

“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,” said 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.”

For more information on the event itself or for fish fry tickets, contact Convention Coordinator Roy Dahlgren at (906) 399-1960 or ­trapperroy@outlook.com.