Fishing and Boating Expo set to make a splash in Melbourne

Victoria’s vast coastline and in-land rivers and dams offer plenty of choice for those who enjoy the water, and they’re sure to find something to suit their taste at this month’s Fishing and Boating Expo.

The August 24-26 event will see 60 exhibitors pack the 6000sqm pavilion at the Melbourne Showgrounds with their latest boats, tinnies, PWCs and the best in gear and gadgets.

Boats & More will take wraps off the new Haines Hunter Offshore 560 powered by the 150 Mercury engine.

The brand’s renowned durability and style are present in this vessel which is great for a comfortable family day on the water or chasing a catch off-shore with a long-range 200L fuel tank.

The boat can be towed behind most family-sized sedans, such as a Falcon or Commodore, without the need for a breakaway braking system.

Regal Marine will feature a range of the popular and locally-crafted TABS plate aluminium boats.

TABS prides itself on its uncompromised production process, which results in a boat that rivals the toughest on the water without sacrificing comfort.

There are plenty of show specials to be found but the 430 Cruise Runaboat, kitted with an EFI Mercury 4-stroke engine, safety gear and rego will be one of the show’s most competitive offerings.

Showgoers debating whether to make their next purchase a boat or caravan are sure to show plenty of interest in Drifta pontoon boat, described as the ‘caravan on water’.

It has all the creature comforts including air conditioning, front and rear sundecks and toilet and shower, and at 22 feet long and a manageable 8 feet wide, is simple to hook up and tow on the road.

Drifta combines the best of both worlds, and showgoers can own the unique craft for around $85,000.

Melbourne Sea-Doo will showcase a range of its class-leading PWCs for those considering other options for taking to the water.

If it’s a performance PWC they’re after, then visitors will be drawn to the new RXP-X.

Sharp, precise cornering, advanced handling and plenty of grunt are the Sea-Doo standout’s selling points, and it claims fuel savings of up to 20% on some of its main competitors when the throttle is held wide open.

PWCs are also becoming more popular for those who only need a small craft to take out when they go fishing.

There will be a variety of makes and models that can fulfill what is becoming a common requirement, and these craft also offer a ride that can be enjoyed by the family if the fish aren’t biting.

Fishnet’s Charlie Micallef will be on hand prior to and during the show to film a series of informative interviews and feature pieces on the show exhibitors and standout products.

The clips will be loaded onto youtube and accessible from PCs, smart phones and tablets for visitors that are on the go.

For options and variety, there is no greater showroom than the Fishing and Boating Expo, which happens to fall just a week prior to Father’s Day!

The event is co-located with the expansive National 4×4 & Outdoors Show, with entry to both included as part of the affordable admission prices.