Outdoor shows herald the arrival of spring

   One-Tank Trip for March 9/19

   (c) By Jim Fox

   Canada’s biggest fishing and outdoor show is sure to “lure” you into going wild during the March school break.

   Organizers say that many generations have had their introduction to Canada’s outdoor heritage during the long history of the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show.

   It’s been around annually for 69 years and returns to the International Centre (6900 Airport Rd.) in Mississauga from March 13 to 17.

Learn how to catch the “big” ones at the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show.

    Taking centre stage are fishing, hunting, boating, camping and outdoor adventures displayed throughout the huge show space.

   It also provides an opportunity to learn about the newest products and get the latest techniques from the pros and at seminars.

   The show attracts 70,000 people with 300 exhibitors having a diverse range of products and services promoting the great outdoors.

   Watch the West Coast Lumberjacks and their “amazing feats of strength and agility” in chainsaw art, fancy footwork for log rolling and climbing poles.

   The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Zone has kid fun that includes a fishing simulator to experi­ence the thrill of the catch.

Competitive log rollers make a big splash at the sports’ show.

   There’s also a Learn to Fish station where kids can design their own Lucky Strike fishing lure, a casting pond and lots of wildlife to see.

   The WoofJocks Canine All Stars skilled team of dogs and handlers will present a fun variety show.

   Kevin Lewis, West Coast chainsaw artist, will be there to create feats of carving magic.

   To learn more: torontosportshow.ca; 905) 361-2677

   For the birds

   Just as the swallows return to San Juan Capistrano, Calif., the waterfowl come honking back to Presqu'ile Provincial Park on Lake Ontario near Brighton.

   Thousands making up some 25 species arrive each spring to rest and feed before moving on to nesting areas farther north and west, said park naturalist David Bree.

Ducks of many species flock to Presqu’ile Provincial Park every March. (Photos by David Bree)

    To recognize these quacking harbingers of spring, the Friends of Presqu’ile Park holds the 43rd annual Presqu’ile Waterfowl Weekend on March 16and 17.

   “This is truly a world-class natural spectacle,” Bree said, noting that ducks, geese and swans are “starting to appear, as if from nowhere, with numbers building in Presqu’ile Bay.”

   The bay has some of the greatest concentrations with easy access to good viewing locations, spotting scopes and guides to identify the many species.

   There are numerous activities and displays at the Lighthouse Interpretive Centre and Nature Centre along with fun for kids and a barbecue lunch, hot drinks and snacks.

friendsofpresquile.on.ca; (613) 475-4324, Ext. 225.

   Happening now (Updated)

   “Wilder than ever” is how the Norfolk Wildlife Festival & Adventure Show this past weekend (March 9 and 10) in Simcoe was being called.

   “Adults and children of all ages can participate in the many fun and educational hands-on activities, demonstrations and browse through a variety of exhibits,” said George Araujo, general manager.

   “The kids love getting up face to face with the animals,” he added.

   Show-goers can learn about animals in the wilderness, search for animal tracks and hear about wildlife conservation, said publicist Wendy Brick.

   Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue will explain its work to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick, injured, abandoned and orphaned critters.

   The Canadian Raptor Conservancy will show some extraordinary birds of prey and there will be a live bee display.

   Kids can find out about fishing and casting, archery and see rabbits, llamas and a howling donkey.

   The show is at the Aud at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds. norfolkcountyfair.com; (519) 426-7280, Ext. 226.

 

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Jim Fox can be reached at onetanktrips@hotmail.com

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