The New England Paddlesports Show is THE place for kayakers and canoeists to be this weekend. Whether you're simply seeking info about getting out on the water or you simply want to buy a boat at a big discount, this expo and retail sale at the University of New Hampshire's Durham campus is where it's happening.

The New England Paddlesports Show is THE place to be this weekend.
ALL PHOTOS SCOTT ANDREWS

It's certainly where I was happening yesterday. I didn't buy anything, but I picked up tons of info on where to paddle my boats this summer. Plus I found a few items that I dream about owning someday.

I also met the owners of a paddlers' website that I'll be checking often from now on: www.paddling.net.

Briefly: This annual event is produced by Kittery Trading Post. A dozen-plus manufacturers of kayaks and canoes are represented, plus makers of paddles and paddling gear such as car-top carriers and clothing for cold-water paddlers. Nearly every item is on sale at show-special pricing.

More than a dozen manufacturers of canoes and kayaks have display areas, and most items are at show-special pricing.

Trying one on for size.

You can also pick up info on the Maine Island Trail and the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, a 740-mile route between upstate New York and Fort Kent.

Three seminar sessions run simultaneously, including in-water demos in the university's big swimming pool.

Dressing for cold-water paddling is the focus of one seminar.

Fishing from kayaks is the subject of an on-water pool seminar.

April 9 is the final day. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult admission is $6. The UNH campus is less than 70 miles from Portland; driving directors are on Kittery Trading Post's website.

The show runs through 4 p.m. April 9.

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