U.P. Ice Fishing and Hunting Expo, Craft it U.P. 906 returns Nov. 6 to 7
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ESCANABA -- Anglers, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts will once again have a chance to connect with vendors, discover new products and prepare for the season at the Daily Press' fifth annual U.P. Ice Fishing and Hunting Expo. Limited booth space remains available for vendors interested in showcasing their products and services at the expo.
The expo will run from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 in the Ruth Butler Building at the Upper Peninsula State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. N. in Escanaba.
Admission is free with a canned good or monetary donation. Donations will benefit local food pantries and the Delta Animal Shelter.
"My goal every year is to have more donations than the year before and for everyone to find good deals on all of their outdoor needs," said Sarah Greenlund, Daily Press publisher and advertising director.
From fishing tackle and rods to specialty knives and furs, the expo will offer a wide selection of products for outdoor enthusiasts. Attendees also can connect with fellow anglers and hunters while exploring services offered by businesses specializing in outdoor recreation.
Vendors scheduled to attend include Beaver's Lures, Mr. Tip-Up, Mike's Custom Rods, Humboldt Furs LLC, Race-Driven Powersports, U.P. Tractor and dozens more.
While those interested in attending can look forward to seeing many familiar vendors return, a fresh lineup of newcomers will bring new products and perspectives. Among the new additions are Mr. Tip-Up of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, specializing in handcrafted, solid oak wind tip-ups; U.P. Tractor of Rock, providing agricultural and chore equipment sales and service; KYND Eyewear of Volo, Illinois, offering premium polarized lenses; and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), who will provide safety tips for the outdoors.
This year, Blade's Bait & Tackle will showcase a brand-new Wilcraft, a specialized amphibious ice-fishing vehicle designed to travel across ice, snow, slush and open water.
Although the vehicle won't be for sale, attendees will have the opportunity to get an up-close look at this innovative piece of equipment and learn more about its unique capabilities.
BellaNasi and Southern Bayou will add to the event's family-friendly atmosphere by offering a variety of food options for visitors to enjoy throughout the day.
Since its debut in 2022 with just 35 vendors, the U.P. Ice Fishing and Hunting Expo has grown significantly, becoming a popular event for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.
The September 2025 expo attracted approximately 2,800 attendees and featured more than 70 vendors. Beyond its growth in attendance and vendor participation, the event has continued to make a positive impact on the local community. Donations collected during the 2025 expo included seven grocery carts filled with food for distribution to local food pantries.
The annual event's charitable efforts also extend to the Delta County Animal Shelter, which received $988 in cash donations and a grocery cart full of supplies following last year's expo.
Major sponsors of the expo, organized by the Daily Press, are Blade's Bait and Tackle, Bayshore Bait and Hideaway, L&M Fleet Supply and WZMQ 19 News.
Vendor applications are still being accepted as of Saturday, Oct. 17. Those interested in participating can call Sarah at 906-786-2021, ext. 101, or email smaki@dailypress.net.
Taking place the same weekend is the Daily Press' second annual Craft it U.P. 906 Craft Show, offering an opportunity for vendors to showcase their handmade goods and crafts.
The Daily Press launched the craft show last year in response to community feedback calling for an event that would appeal to those less interested in hunting and fishing.
The craft show's dates, hours, location and admission requirements are the same as those for the U.P. Ice Fishing and Hunting Expo.
Vendor space is limited. Interested vendors can reserve a spot by calling Rae at 906-786-2021, ext. 171, or emailing rmaki@dailypress.net.
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Sophie Vogelmann can be reached at 906-786-2021, ext. 148, or svogelmann@dailypress.net.