Anglers from across Southwest Florida are invited to Sunshine Ace Hardware’s sixth annual Reel in the Sunshine fishing expo, which will be held Feb. 12 in Bonita Springs. 

Reel in the Sunshine will feature interactive seminars and discussions led by local fishing guides, boat captains and fishing product experts. Speakers will share their expertise about local waterways, including the best places to catch each type of fish and what baits to use. 

Reel in the Sunshine also features vendor-led product demonstrations, hot-off-the-grill BBQ samples prepared by Sunshine Ace’s grill masters, numerous giveaways and exclusive merchandise discounts only available during the event. 

“Fishing has become hugely popular during the pandemic because it’s a great way to get out and enjoy nature,” said Michael Wynn, president of Sunshine Ace Hardware. “Reel in the Sunshine offers opportunities for new and inexperienced anglers to interact with fishing experts and learn techniques to make their next fishing trip successful, such as how to properly cast a line into the water, bait a hook and even where fish are biting.” 

This year’s featured speakers include 

• 9:30 a.m.: Alberto Knie, St. Croix Rods & Tactical Anglers
• 11 a.m.: Capt. Jay Withers, fishing guide and Shimano Pro staff
• Noon: Mark Nichols, D.O.A. Fishing Lures 

There is no admission cost to attend Reel in the Sunshine. However, guests can participate in a raffle and charity luncheon to support Captains for Clean Water, a nonprofit with a mission to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems for the use and enjoyment by all. 

Raffle items include a Yeti V Series cooler and two 30-ounce travel mugs ($880 value); Traeger Ranger portable grill with cover, pellets and rubs ($600 value); Maui Jim sunglasses ($470 value); Yeti Hopper Flip 18 portable soft cooler and two 20-ounce travel mugs ($380 value); and Costa sunglasses ($308 value),.

Reel in the Sunshine will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12 at Sunshine Ace Hardware in Bonita Springs, 9100 Bonita Beach Road SE.

EVENT DETAILS: Reel in the Sunshine