Chicagoland’s favorite outdoor show brings the year’s best deals on fishing accessories, fishing related travel and boats to the Schaumburg Convention Center.

Reeling in the best fishing deals, activities and seminars to the Chicagoland area, the 2026 Chicagoland Fishing Expo returns to the Schaumburg Convention Center, Thursday, January 22 through Sunday, January 25. The annual “Sportfishing Spectacular” is a one-stop shop for fishing fanatics, families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for the latest products and best deals on fishing gear, boats, kayaks and travel destinations in the US, Canada, and beyond. The Expo, one of the most interactive of its kind, also offers hands-on education from some of the best anglers and manufacturers in the world.

Highlights of the 2026 show will include:

Seminars

Make 2026 your best fishing year yet! Species-specific seminars from both local experts and national pros on the newest and best techniques. Opportunities for both the novice and expert angler to improve their skills. Covering all species—bass, walleye, muskie, pike, and panfish! Don’t miss the expanded walleye presentations.

The travel pavilion

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with travel planners from a large variety of lodges, resorts, charters and guides from North America and beyond. Over 60 travel exhibitions on hand. This is an excellent opportunity to book your next outdoor getaway directly at the Expo.

Fun fishing activities for anglers of all ages and ability

This year’s Expo will feature an array of fishing experiences and educational opportunities, including an indoor fly-fishing pond and a 5,000-gallon Hawg Trough stocked with bass and panfish. Attendees may also learn what it’s like to fight a fish using the interactive fishing simulator. Plus, aspiring anglers are invited to attend the popular Chauncey’s Great Outdoors, offering beginners tips on how to get started in fishing. Learn to tie a fly with Fly Girls of the Midwest. And don’t miss the Trout Pond—an opportunity for anglers of all ages to catch a live trout at the expo.

BASS Fishing Hall of Fame

Thursday at 4:30 there will be a special ceremony at the Hawg Trough recognizing a local legend with the prestigious “Meritorious Service Award”.

Wild birds of prey exhibit

In addition to picking up the latest outdoor gear and apparel, the Expo gives attendees a taste of the wilderness with an experience at the Wings and Talons booth, which will be filled with live raptors and trained raptor handlers from Raptor Education, Stewardship and Conservation, a 501(c)(3) non‐profit organization.

Manufacturer meet-and-greet

Manufacturers will be on-site to answer questions and educate attendees on the best products for their fishing goals. Guests may then make purchases based on that information from one of the many local retailers exhibiting in the show.

Fishing licenses

Illinois DNR will be on site to answer all your questions regarding locations and fishing regulations for the 2026 season.

Family Day

On Sunday, January 25, kids 11 and younger get in free and can participate in a scavenger hunt to explore the show floor, with the first 100 in line receiving a Daiwa rod/reel combo. Children 11 and younger will also get an opportunity to fish the trout pond once for free.

When

Thursday, January 22 and Friday, January 23, 12 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, January 24, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, January 25, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where

Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 North Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg, Illinois

Tickets

Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 to 11; children 5 and under are free

Children 11 and under get in free on Family Day (Sunday, January 25)

Attendees can purchase tickets in advance online (on sale now).

For more information…

chicagoland.sportshows.com

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