The Jaffa Sport Show returns to the Jaffa Shrine Facility in Altoona this weekend.
The show features top-of-the-line exhibitors, displays, attractions and seminars. In addition to the hunting and fishing gear, the show features outfitters, guides and lodges that will be showcasing outdoor adventures and getaways. Models of 2005 campers, boats, motorcycles and ATVs will also be on display.
Ye’ Ole Fishin’ Hole and the pellet range are two exciting features for kids and adults alike. Got cabin fever? Head for The Fishin’ Hole, which will be stocked full of rainbow trout. Try a hand at the target range, which uses crossman pellet pistols resembling both in weight and size a real 357-magnum pistol.
Approximately 140 vendors will be present during the show, including The Blair County Fire Warden’s Association with Smokey the Bear.
Ongoing demonstrations will be presented throughout the three-day show on a wide variety of subjects, including animal and bird displays. A number of skilled craftsmen will be on hand demonstrating the art of flint knapping, building powder horns, and the art of building a custom muzzleloader. See how it was done, learn how to do it or order the historic gift of a lifetime right at the show.
Making his first appearance at the show this year will be Ken Reinard, otherwise known as the Colonial Angler. Ken will be presenting seminars on the Heritage of Flyfishing, which will be of interest to both flyfishermen and history buffs as well. When Ken is not on stage he will be available to show his collection of equipment as well as give some historical insight to the sport of flyfishing. Ken is the author of The Colonial Angler’s Manual of Flyfishing and Flytying, and he will be autographing his books at the show.
Jonathan Custead, a reptile expert, returns to the show this year with his collection of reptile friends including an alligator, rattlesnakes, a cobra, a 14-foot python and much more. Jonathan makes the world of reptiles come alive with his knowledge and if anyone wants to do more than just sit in the audience, be sure to see Jonathan anytime over the weekend for a photo with one of his reptiles. Jonathan’s presentations are geared for the whole family, so be sure and bring the kids.
P.J. Reilly, a well-known outdoor writer, will be making his first appearance at the show this year. P.J. will be sharing his expertise on goose hunting and tips to get people started in the sport or to make them more successful if they are already a goose hunter.
Blair County Wildlife brings Ed Hale to the show this year. Ed, otherwise known as Safa Idea Nawee, is Native American. Ed’s seminar program is filled with Native American song and dance as well as demonstrations of Native American skills. His programs are both educational and entertaining and are suited for all members of the family, so bring the kids to this one.
Other seminars include fishing the Chesapeake Bay, by Captain Gary Sacks, salmon and trout fishing with Captain Jim Del Real, the world of bats with Heidi Boyle, managing the deer population with the use of aerial infrared detectors and much more.
Stop by and try the variety of delicious foods, which will be available throughout the show. There will be pizza, hot dogs, fresh cut French fries, hot sausage sandwiches, meatball subs, chili dogs, hot pretzels, nachos and more.
Show times are today, noon to 9 p.m.; tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3.50 per person ages 13 and over; children 6-12, $1; and children under the age of 6, admitted free with an adult. The Jaffa Shrine Facility is handicapped accessible by using the side entrance of the building with free parking available.
