Whether you are a seasoned angler or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the water, the annual Indiana Fishing Expo, Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2026, at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, won’t disappoint.
More than two decades ago, avid fisherman Ray Rigby wasn’t impressed by a sports show he and a friend attended. The friend bet him he couldn’t put on a better one. Nearly 10,000 people now attend his annual Indiana Fishing Expo, which features educational seminars, fishing gear and free giveaways every hour.
Here’s why you should attend:
Rigby focuses on bringing in only small-business vendors to the Indiana Fishing Expo, saying big-box stores run counter to the whole idea of his event.
You can find an assortment of fishing gear, from rods to tackle and more, including unique items not sold anywhere else, from more than 90 vendors in the 40,000-square-foot space.
Over the years, industry leaders have shared expert fishing techniques and strategies at the show. Notable names like Paul “Coot” Williams and Buddy Ellenburg have attended, and the high-caliber roster brings in visitors and vendors from across the country.
This year, two-time national fishing champion Charlie Hildreth will host the crappie seminar, and more experts will be added to the list leading up to the event.
All ages can enjoy the Indiana Fishing Expo. Children under 12 are free, and adults are $6.
Free giveaways are awarded every hour throughout the two-day event, and Rigby said the most rewarding part of coordinating the expo is the generations of families that come each year.
Event Details
- What: Indiana Fishing Expo
- Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville, Ind.
- When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 31 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 1
- Parking: Free
- Tickets: $6 for adults, children 12 and under FREE
