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Western New York Boat Show Season Is Here: Events Every WNY Boater Should Attend

Feb. 17 2026 WNY Boating By Collins Marine

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For boaters and anglers in Western New York, winter doesn’t just mean snow and cold temperatures — it means anticipation. It means planning upgrades, researching new boats, attending seminars, and counting down the days until the docks are back in and Lake Erie opens up for another unforgettable season.

Boat show season is where that anticipation turns into action.

This year, Collins Marine is proud to participate in two of the most important events for Western New York boaters: the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo and the Boating 716 Show & Sale. Each event serves a different — but equally important — role in helping local boaters prepare for the months ahead.

If you live in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Hamburg, or anywhere in Western New York, these are the events that officially launch your boating season.

Why Boat Shows Matter in Western New York

Boating in Western New York is unique. The conditions of Lake Erie demand the right hull design and power. The currents of the Niagara River require maneuverability and confidence. Inland lakes call for versatility and efficiency.

Choosing the right boat — and equipping it properly — isn’t just about comfort. It’s about safety, performance, and getting the most out of a relatively short summer season.

That’s where boat shows come in.

Unlike browsing online listings, attending an event gives you the opportunity to:

  • Step aboard multiple boats in one afternoon
  • Compare layouts side by side
  • Sit at the helm and feel the ergonomics
  • Ask detailed questions about local water conditions
  • Learn about electronics, accessories, and engine options
  • Take advantage of seasonal incentives

For many boaters, these shows are where ideas turn into decisions.


Greater Niagara Fishing Expo: Where Anglers Kick Off the Season


Hosted in Niagara Falls, the Greater Niagara Fishing Expo has become one of the premier fishing-focused events in the Northeast. Known as an education-driven show, it draws serious anglers from across Western New York and beyond.

A poster for a fishing expo AI-generated content may be incorrect.



What Makes This Expo Different?

This isn’t just a shopping event. It’s often referred to as a “teaching fishing show” because of its heavy emphasis on seminars and hands-on learning.

Attendees can participate in:

  • Species-specific strategy sessions
  • Lake Erie walleye deep dives
  • Bass and trout technique workshops
  • Electronics and sonar education
  • Trolling and casting system discussions

If you fish Lake Erie, the Niagara River, or regional inland lakes, this expo provides insights you can immediately apply once the season opens.

Why It Matters for WNY Anglers

Lake Erie walleye fishing is nationally recognized. Spring bass action draws competitive anglers. Salmon and trout runs energize the Niagara River corridor.

For anglers upgrading boats or refining setups, this show is an ideal time to evaluate:

  • Rod storage layouts
  • Livewell configurations
  • Trolling motor systems
  • Marine electronics upgrades
  • Aluminum vs. fiberglass hull advantages

It’s also one of the best networking opportunities of the year. You’ll meet guides, tournament anglers, weekend warriors, and industry pros — all sharing knowledge and passion for the sport.

If fishing is your primary focus in 2026, this is where your season truly begins.

Boating 716 Show & Sale: The Region’s Premier Spring Boat Event

As winter begins to fade and thoughts turn fully toward summer, the Boating 716 Show & Sale takes center stage. Held at the Erie County Fairgrounds in Hamburg, this indoor event brings together dealers, brands, and boating families under one roof.




A Show for Every Type of Boater

Unlike the fishing expo, which focuses heavily on angling, the Boating 716 Show & Sale caters to the broader boating lifestyle. Whether your weekends involve tubing with the kids, cruising at sunset, anchoring at your favorite sandbar, or running offshore for walleye, this show offers something for everyone.

You can explore:

  • Bowriders for family recreation
  • Aluminum fishing boats built for Lake Erie
  • Multi-purpose and center console designs
  • Updated electronics and helm technology
  • Comfort upgrades for longer days on the water

Because everything is indoors, it’s easy to take your time. Bring your spouse. Bring your kids. Sit in the seats. Open the storage compartments. Visualize your gear onboard.

Why Spring Is a Smart Time to Buy

For Western New York boaters, timing matters. Buying during show season often provides:

  • Early access to 2026 inventory
  • Manufacturer-backed incentives
  • Package upgrades and bundled accessories
  • Time to prepare before peak season

Waiting until June or July can limit options and increase demand pressures. Spring shows allow you to make informed decisions before the docks fill up.

The Value of Attending Both Events

While each event serves a slightly different audience, attending both provides a comprehensive look at your upcoming season.

The Fishing Expo Helps You:

  • Refine techniques
  • Learn from experts
  • Upgrade gear and electronics
  • Connect with serious anglers

The Boating 716 Show Helps You:

  • Compare boat models
  • Explore family-friendly layouts
  • Evaluate comfort features
  • Take advantage of seasonal pricing

Together, they create a complete roadmap for your year on the water.

What You Can Expect from Collins Marine at These Events

At Collins Marine, we don’t just sell boats — we help Western New York families and anglers make confident decisions that match their lifestyle and local water conditions.

When you visit us at these events, you can expect:

Personalized Guidance

We’ll talk through where you boat most often — Lake Erie, Niagara River, inland lakes — and recommend options suited to those waters.

Education, Not Pressure

Boat shows are about information. Whether you’re ready to buy or simply exploring, our goal is to answer questions and help you think strategically.

Real Conversations About Ownership

We’ll discuss:

  • Maintenance expectations
  • Storage and dock planning
  • Financing options
  • Accessory upgrades
  • Long-term service support

Boat ownership is a big decision. Our role is to make it feel manageable and exciting — not overwhelming.

Boat Show Season Is About Community

Beyond the boats and seminars, these events serve another important purpose: they reconnect the boating community after winter.

You’ll see:

  • Families planning summer traditions
  • Anglers swapping Lake Erie stories
  • Kids climbing into captain’s chairs for the first time
  • Longtime boaters comparing upgrades

Western New York boating is about more than equipment — it’s about connection. These shows remind us why we endure the long winters.

Your 2026 Season Starts Now

Western New York summers are short — but they’re unforgettable. Sunrise runs on Lake Erie. Calm evening cruises. Kids laughing behind the boat on a tube. Walleye in the livewell. Fireworks over the water.

Those moments begin long before launch day. They begin at boat shows — where ideas turn into plans and plans turn into action.

Visit Collins Marine at these events and let’s start building your best season yet.