The Michiana Boat and Sports Show wraps up over the weekend

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The 2022 Michiana Boat and Sports Show's last day is this Sunday, but for boating enthusiasts, it's still an opportunity to check out a variety of different watercraft.

The show features eleven different local dealers, all showcasing a variety of different boats-- from pontoon and fishing boats to wake runners and kayaks-- with fifty different companies and brands represented, giving potential buyers the ability to get an up-close look at any boat they might have their eye on, and find the one that's right for them, be it for fishing, water sports or just the ability to take a pleasure cruise with the family.

Enthusiasts come from miles around to experience the different lakes and waterways found in Michiana, and despite it being a little too cold to do any serious boating right now, event organizers said this is the perfect time to start shopping.

"If you want to buy a boat, you need to order it early," said event organizer Kerry Moore. "Especially in this market when there’s a limited capacity and boats the dealers have right now, so if you want a boat and want to be ready for summer, it’s time to order now.”

And supply chain issues aren't making the situation easier.

“Because of the supply chain and everything like that, boats are limited," said Robert Russell, the lead salesperson with Phase Marina. "What we used to order in the past has been cut back, and a lot of times, even as the year goes in, our order keeps getting limited. Sometimes boats don’t show up until towards the end of the summer, so what we have now is guaranteed. We do have some coming in, but when they’re arriving is a mystery, so I would say get your boats now.”

The show will run from 10:00am-4:00pm. Tickets are $10, and they can be purchased at the door or online at Michiana Boat and Sports Show Tickets, Fri, Jan 28, 2022 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite.