By DON DUBUC

Twenty-three years ago Bob Delgiorno decided to try something new for south Louisiana fishermen and hunters – an indoors show that put experts in contact with novices and sold fishing tackle and other outdoor gear.

That small production first held in the Municipal Auditorium that attracted a handful of visitors has grown into a “Super Bowl” for sportsmen. And this coming week, thousands of deer and duck hunters, trout, redfish and bass anglers will file into the Louisiana Superdome to participate in what has become the south’s largest fishing and hunting show.

In fact, no self-respecting Louisiana sportsman would think of not making it to the dome at least one of the five days beginning Wednesday.

“Every year I have families who come up to me and say ‘We were at that first show in 1979 and we’ve been to everyone since. That really makes me feel good,” Delgiorno said.

Besides more than 400 booths offering the latest in sportfishing gear, boat and hunting equipment there are plenty of attractions at this year’s event.

Celebrity stage

Top national and local fishing guides, outfitters and hunting experts will continually demonstrate their latest techniques. There is no fee other than general admission for any of the seminars and presentations.

Among those appearing are Phil Robertson of Duck Commander calls; local BASS touring pro Sam Swett; Bluewater Charter Captain Peace Marvel; state duck calling champ Mike Smith and inventor of the Deadly Dudley lure, Capt. Dudley Vandenborre.

A glass-enclosed live fish tank allows viewers to watch live bass and observe lure action.

Interactive events

One of the most popular attractions is the dome-fishing pond. This year the Pepsi live rainbow trout fishing pond will be free for kids who bring in Pepsi twist caps.

Fishing poles and bait will be provided. Kids can also enjoy handling live Louisiana animals at the Audubon Zoo exhibit and experience rock climbing at the Climb Max booth.

By bringing a deer mount, entrants to the Big Buck Contest will gain free admission to enter and have their buck scored and again on March 24 to pick up their trophy. Prizes from U.S. Tobacco and Mossy Oak in several categories will be awarded to the winners.

The LA Coastal Conservation Association will award hundreds of terrific prizes in its daily speed casting contests held on the dome Casting Pond. The Grand Prize winner receives an outboard motor.

The Lake Pontchartrain Maritime Museum’s Boat Building School will feature students building a traditional pirogue. Attendees can view the boat-building progress daily until its completion on March 24.

Hall of Fame

In this, its fourth year, the Hall of Fame will induct three honorees for their lifetime contributions to enhancing the sports of fishing and hunting in Louisiana. The presentation and induction ceremony will be held March 24 at 3 p.m.

This year’s honorees are five-time state duck calling champion Mike Smith of Violet; legendary angler and hunter Dave Ballay who pioneered the offshore fishing industry in Venice and renown wildlife artist John Akers of Abita Springs. They join a pretty impressive list including Tony Accardo, Blackie Campo, Frank Davis, Capt. Charlie Hardison, Eli Haydel, Harry “By Hek” Klein, Bob Marshall, Phil Robertson, Huey Sanders and Bob Scearce.

Cook your catch

A new exhibit section this year will be a huge grilling and barbecuing section called the Outdoor Barbecue School.

A growing number of sportsmen are finding out about the taste and health benefits of grilling versus frying or baking fish.

Visitors can learn how to grill their favorite fish and game from cooking experts. Samples of these tasty dishes and free spice samples will be available throughout the show.

Show hours are Wednesday-Friday – 4-10 p.m., March 23 – 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., and March 24 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is $8 for adults and $3 for children.

DON DUBUC is the outdoors reporter for L’Observateur.