COLAtoday's Guide to the 35th Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic

The 35th Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic (a #MustDo for outdoors-lovers) is taking over the S.C. State Fair Grounds in a few weekends, March 22-24, 2019. And despite what you may think, it’s for more than just old men who love to fish. (No offense, old men who love to fish. We think you’re rad, too.)

The annual event is an ideal outing for families and folks of every type of interest in adventure – with 300+ vendors selling everything from unusual foods to outdoor equipment and hunting gear; plus a kids area and live, hands-on adventure demos where you can get your hands a little dirty (and where you can wear out the kids before nap time).

Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or you’ve never picked up a fishing pole in your life, we’ve picked out some highlights of the fest that you’ll love. Already in? Grab your tickets here.

There’s nothing I love more than fresh air + my fishing rod.

We see your passion for the outdoors, and we appreciate that. Here are some highlights to hit while at the Classic:

What to see:

🐟 The weigh-in from the SCDNR Youth Bass Fishing Championship on March 23 is a must. (Last year’s winning fish in the high school division weighed over 7 lbs. – and all fish were caught in Lake Murray.)

🦃 If you love hunting, the Classic has the most game call vendors in the Southeast.

🌳 There will be demos by Kerry Chainsaw Carvings (sweet) or take the family to see Father & Son's Welding and Metal Art.

What to try:

Learn how deer antlers are scored (and see the all time records of S.C. White-Tailed Deer since 1906 here). Then take the kiddos to check out demos on fishing + try their hand at it in the SCDNR kids fishing pond sponsored by 94.3 The Dude – learn how to use rigs, bait worms + more.

Where to eat:

If you are on a mission to make the most of the Classic but need a quick snack, grab a bag of B-Back Jerky on your way to the next exhibit. If you’re craving a classic dish, stop by the Leaning Tower of Pizza at LaBrasca’s then cool off with soft serve ice cream from Leisure Time.

**Not super outdoorsy, but you’ve caught my attention. Tell me more.**

If your idea of outdoor adventure is drinking on a patio, here are some novice-friendly things to check out at the Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic:

What to see:

🐍 Nature Nick’s Animal Adventures features a 10-foot-long python as well as owls, alligators, foxes, armadillos, turtles, a Chilean flamingo, and more exotic animals. Because anyone can appreciate some exotic animals.

🐟 Along the same lines, don’t miss Jim Vitaro’s Hawg Trough – an epic 5,000-gallon fish tank on wheels.

🎣 Find your dream boat (literally) from the Classic’s selection of luxury pontoons and smaller fishing boats. No fishing skills required.

🖌️ Paluhs Wood Art or Metal Art Signs are unique gift options – or a great addition to the mountain house you’ll want to buy after this event.

What to try:

Chat with representatives from S.C. State Parks to hear about local trails + lakes for some #getoutside inspiration (Harbison State Forest is great for beginners) or ask questions of archeologists + technicians from DNR at the Ellison Building.

Where to eat:

If being on the S.C. State Fair Grounds makes you crave carnival eats, Daley’s Dogs offers a funnel cake corn dog or a banana breaded corn dog with chocolate chips (with an option to dip in peanut butter 🤤).

Want to know more? Click here for more info + ticket prices.

This content was created in partnership with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.