The paddling community is modestly represented at the 2006 Maine Sportsman's Show, which runs through today at the Augusta Civic Center. Yesterday I stopped by SeaSpray Kayaking's display area and learned that the West Bath company is sponsoring Maine's first saltwater kayak fishing tournament this summer.

Scott Shea, owner of SeaSpray Kayaking, plans to run Maine's first saltwater kayak fishing tournament this July.
ALL PHOTOS SCOTT ANDREWS

Owner Scott Shea says that kayak fishing is the fastest-growing segment of the sport, and that tournaments are springing up along the east coast. He grabbed the opportunity to run Maine's first, slated for July 15-17.

And SeaSpray Kayaking will sell you a boat that will be perfect for participants -- a Wilderness Systems Pungo outfitted with a suite of fishing accessories.

Other show special include a Radisson canoe from Belgrade Canoe and Kayak, and a Perception Dagger poly kayak from The Great Outdoors of Winthrop. Call 377-9925; their website isn't working.

This Radisson canoe is Belgrade Canoe and Kayak's show special.

The Great Outdoors is offering this Perception Dagger as its show special.

The Maine Sportsman's Show is principally sponsored by the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine.

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