Since 1948, the Canadian National Sportsman’s Show has grown from being the very first outdoor sportsman show, to one of the largest in Canada today. This was evident at Bonaventure in Montreal from April 2-6th, 1997. This year’s show was impressive and didn’t seem redundant, even though another outdoors show happened only a couple of weeks earlier in Montreal.
While having some of the usual things that the last show had, this one went even further. A lot of the show featured hands-on experience aimed at the youth and at the “youth in all of us.”
In fact, I was one of the few adults to try out the Roc Gyms climbing wall. (See photo) It was great. The thrill of heights, adrenaline, climbing, rappelling and all this – in total safety! Roc Gyms axe relatively new. And once you’ve safely gained indoor experience, they will take you to climb real mountains, if you want. In the old days it was more of a do-or-die situation. For those interested, Roc Gyms La Montagne en Ville is located at 2350, Ave du Colisee, Quebec City. More info can be had by phoning 1-800-ROC-GYMS.
The kids were having the most fun of all at the Association des Chausseurs et Pécheurs de Montreal Ste-Marie Inc. They had set up an archery and pellet gun range. Plenty of experienced hunters were on hand, giving the kids tips on shooting and safety. They were the ones to do it as they hold both hunters’ safety and Firearms Acquisition Certificate courses. As with Roc Gyms, there was a hot and heavy line-up for this hands-on experience.
Another thrill for the kids – and a few adults – was live fishing, where you could take home what you caught. This was set up by Pisciculture Domaine Chez Albert located out in Castonguay. They specialize in lake and rainbow trout.
Hands on experience also included fly-fishing techniques. This one was mostly for the adults and included experts from the Fly Fishermen of Metropolitan Montreal.
In the regular fishing category, Professional Angler Patrick Campeau was also on hand demonstrating his casting techniques. And the fishing simulator, had a line-up like you wouldn’t believe. The fishing line went into a box that tugged and pulled as you watched your fish fight you on a giant screen TV!
Though the last show had several Native booths and Native handicrafts, the only Cree organization I noticed was Chisasibi’s Mandow Agency. Jimmy Fireman said that the response to their booth was good.
A Fish Story is a shop that specializes in fishing supplies and wildlife art. The photos on this page give you an idea of the wide variety of stock. Tell Marvin that Will sent you if you get a chance visit his place in St-Antoine, Quebec. He’s on route 291.
Heater Meals are another great new product. No fire is needed to heat up these babies. Originally developed exclusively for the US Army and used in Operation Desert Storm, they are now available commercially from MMK Inc. All that you need is in the package. Just open it. Then, open the water package and pour on the bottom. Place the food on top and put back in the box for 15 minutes. Voila, a hot meal awaits your mouth. Think of the uses: in the blind, hunting, fishing lunches, skidoo races, etc. I think this is something the Crees should look into.
Actually the whole show is something that the Crees should look into. Next year we’ll try to get the dates out to you in advance so you can attend or set up your own booth.
