The KC Boat and Fishing Show is back, and it is bigger than ever. Scheduled for January 7–10, 2027, at the Kansas City Convention Center, Bartle Hall, this four-day event is one of the most exciting winter gatherings for outdoor enthusiasts in the entire Midwest. Whether you love fishing, boating, or simply enjoy family-friendly fun, this show has something special waiting for you.
Over 250,000 square feet of floor space will be packed with hundreds of boats, the latest fishing gear, live animal exhibits, expert-led seminars, and activities for kids of all ages. Therefore, if you are planning to attend, this complete guide covers everything you need to know.
Event Overview
The Kansas City Convention Center, located at 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, will host this spectacular event. Organized by RJ Promotions, the show runs across four full days and welcomes both first-time visitors and longtime boating fans.
Here is a quick snapshot of the event details:
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | KC Boat and Fishing Show 2027 |
| Dates | January 7–10, 2027 |
| Venue | Kansas City Convention Center, Bartle Hall |
| Address | 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105 |
| Organizer | RJ Promotions |
| Audience | General public and outdoor enthusiasts |
| Entry for Kids | Free (16 and under) |
Show Hours and Ticket Information
Planning your visit starts with knowing when the doors open. The show runs on slightly different schedules each day, so it is a good idea to plan ahead.
| Day | Hours |
| Thursday, January 7 | Noon – 7:00 PM |
| Friday, January 8 | Noon – 8:00 PM |
| Saturday, January 9 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Sunday, January 10 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Adult admission is typically priced at $15. Children aged 16 and under get in completely free. Additionally, free Thursday and Sunday tickets may be available through local FNBO Kansas City branch locations, and discounted coupons can often be found at nearby Hy-Vee grocery stores. Always check the official website at KCMOBoatShow.com for the most current ticket pricing and any special promotions.
Boats on Display: What to Expect on the Show Floor
The boat showcase is the heart of this event. Visitors can walk through one of the largest collections of watercraft available under a single roof anywhere in the Midwest. Special show pricing is offered all four days, making this one of the best times of year to buy a boat or simply browse what is new.
You can expect to find a wide variety of vessels, including:
- Wakesurf and wakeboard boats
- Pontoon boats for family outings
- Tournament-ready fishing boats
- Luxury cruisers and cabin boats
- Personal watercraft and jet skis
- Kayaks and canoes
Manufacturer representatives and dealers are present throughout the show floor. Therefore, buyers can ask detailed questions, compare models side by side, and negotiate special pricing directly. If you have been thinking about upgrading your boat or buying your very first one, this is an ideal setting to make that decision with confidence.
Additionally, dock building experts will be on hand to help you plan the perfect landing for your new vessel. You can discuss materials, design options, and pricing with professionals who know the local lakes and waterways well.
Fishing Gear, Tackle, and Outdoor Accessories
Anglers will find no shortage of things to explore. The show features a wide range of fishing equipment at liquidation prices, giving shoppers a great chance to stock up before the summer season.
Expect to find:
- Fishing rods, reels, and line
- Tackle boxes and lures
- Baitcasting and spinning setups
- Ice fishing gear
- Hunting accessories and outdoor supplies
- Boating safety equipment and accessories
Many vendors offer show-exclusive deals that are not available anywhere else. Walking the exhibits with a shopping list is a smart move. However, even without a list, it is easy to discover new products that could improve your next trip on the water.
The show also features exhibits focused on hunting, including whitetail deer shed displays, antique duck decoy collections, and vintage fishing tackle showcases. These exhibits are fascinating for both collectors and casual admirers of outdoor heritage.
Pro Angler Seminars and Live Demonstrations
Learning from the best is one of the biggest draws of this annual event. The seminar lineup brings top-tier fishing professionals to two dedicated stages. These sessions are interactive, informative, and completely free with your admission ticket.
Seminars typically cover topics such as:
- Crappie, bass, and catfish techniques for Midwest lakes
- Choosing the right lure for different water conditions
- Fishing safety and conservation practices
- Boating navigation and water safety tips
- Kayak and paddlesport techniques
The show also features a 40-foot-long, fully stocked live aquarium where pro anglers conduct real-time fishing demonstrations. Watching an expert work a lure through a tank full of live fish is both educational and entertaining. You can ask questions after each session and get direct answers from anglers who fish competitively across the region.
Seminar schedules are typically posted closer to the show date on the official website. It is worth checking regularly so you can plan your days around the sessions that interest you most.
Unique Attractions and Live Animal Exhibits
Beyond boats and fishing, the KC Boat and Fishing Show offers experiences that truly set it apart from other trade shows. Live animal exhibits are a consistent crowd favorite, especially for families.
Visitors can expect:
- Up-close interaction with live stingrays
- A petting zoo featuring zebras, llamas, mini horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs, and calves
- Live minnow races that kids absolutely love
- A trout pond where children can try fishing for free
These attractions turn a boat show into a full family adventure. Parents often find that the kids are just as excited about the petting zoo as they are about the boats. Additionally, there is something refreshing about experiencing live animals and nature-themed exhibits in the middle of January.
Family Fun and Kids’ Activities
This show has always been a family-first event, and the 2027 edition promises to keep that tradition alive. Kids get in free, and there is more than enough to keep them entertained for the full four-day run.
Activities designed for younger visitors include:
- A 27-foot rock climbing wall
- Mechanical bull riding
- Air Soft Shooting Zone
- Archery range
- Hoverball
- Kids casting practice area
- Kayak demos at the paddle pond
These activities make it easy for parents and children to explore the show together without anyone getting bored. Furthermore, the energy on the show floor stays lively throughout each day, with entertainment running continuously across multiple areas.
Where to Stay and How to Get There
Kansas City offers a wide range of hotel options near the convention center. Since the show draws thousands of visitors over four days, booking accommodation early is strongly recommended.
Several hotels are within walking distance or a short drive from Bartle Hall. Downtown Kansas City also has excellent restaurant options, entertainment venues, and parking facilities. If you are driving in from out of town, the convention center sits right in the heart of the city and is easy to reach from major highways.
Public transportation is available in downtown Kansas City, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate actively in the area. Therefore, getting to and from the show is convenient no matter how you prefer to travel.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way when attending a large event like this. Here are a few practical tips to help you have the best experience:
- Arrive early on Saturday, as it tends to be the busiest day
- Check the seminar schedule online before your visit and mark the sessions you want
- Wear comfortable shoes, since you will be walking a lot
- Bring cash in addition to cards, as some vendors prefer it
- Take advantage of show-exclusive pricing before you leave, as deals may not carry over
- Let the kids lead for a while — the petting zoo and activities tend to be their highlights
Conclusion
The KC Boat and Fishing Show 2027 is shaping up to be a must-attend event for anyone who loves the water, the outdoors, or simply a fun winter outing with the family. Running from January 7 to 10 at Kansas City Convention Center, Bartle Hall, this four-day event packs in hundreds of boats at special show pricing, fishing gear deals, live animal exhibits, expert pro angler seminars, and endless activities for kids. Adults pay around $15 for admission, while children 16 and under get in free. Whether you are in the market for a new boat, looking to upgrade your tackle, or just want a memorable day out, this show delivers exceptional value. Mark your calendar, check KCMOBoatShow.com for updates, and get ready to make some great memories on the water this coming summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the KC Boat and Fishing Show 2027?
The show runs from Thursday, January 7 through Sunday, January 10, 2027.
Where is the KC Boat and Fishing Show held?
It takes place at the Kansas City Convention Center, Bartle Hall, located at 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105.
How much do tickets cost?
Adult tickets are typically $15. Children aged 16 and under are admitted free of charge.
Are there free ticket options?
Free tickets for Thursday and Sunday are often available at FNBO Kansas City branch locations. Discounted coupons may also be found at participating Hy-Vee stores.
Where can I buy tickets online?
Tickets can be purchased at KCMOBoatShow.com. It is recommended to check the site regularly for updates and special promotions.
What types of boats are on display?
The show features pontoon boats, wakesurf boats, fishing boats, luxury cruisers, personal watercraft, kayaks, and more — all with special show pricing.
Are there activities for children?
Kids can enjoy a rock climbing wall, mechanical bull, archery, kids casting, a petting zoo, free trout fishing, and live minnow races.
Will there be fishing seminars?
Pro angler seminars take place across two stages throughout all four days, covering topics from bass fishing to kayaking and boating safety.
Is parking available at the venue?
The Kansas City Convention Center has parking facilities nearby, and downtown Kansas City offers several additional parking garages. Rideshare services are also a convenient option.
Who organizes the KC Boat and Fishing Show?
The event is organized by RJ Promotions, a full-service event management company based in Saint Joseph, Missouri.
