Sunshine Ace Hardware’s ninth annual Reel in the Sunshine fishing expo will be held Feb. 8 in Bonita Springs, where amateur and pro anglers will gather to learn fishing tips directly from Southwest Florida’s top fishing guides and boat captains.

The free family-friendly event will include vendor-led demonstrations, product giveaways and exclusive discounts on a wide range of fishing and lifestyle gear, including fishing apparel, rods, reels, lures, hats, sunglasses and other outdoor accessories. Local fishing guides and captains also will share stories and expertise during keynote addresses.

“Reel in the Sunshine is geared toward beginning anglers, families and also pros who are hoping to elevate their experience on the water,” said Michael Wynn, president of Sunshine Ace Hardware. “People often head out fishing hoping to catch the ‘big one,’ but fishing isn’t easy. Our product experts and captains will help anglers of all skill levels get the right gear and learn the right techniques to catch something worthy of posting on social media or putting on the dinner plate.”

Reel in the Sunshine will be held from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 8 at Sunshine Ace Hardware in Bonita Springs, 9100 Bonita Beach Road SE. Admission is free, but guests can participate in a charity luncheon and charity giveaway to support Captains for Clean Water, a nonprofit with a mission to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems for the use and enjoyment by all.

Participating vendors and speakers will be announced in advance of the event.

2024 Event Recap: Reel in the Sunshine nets $2,608 for Captains for Clean Water