Nashville boat show promises waves of family fun

Middle Tennessee will finally have its chance to escape the brutal cold, dust off the old bathing suit and dive into four days of summer bliss with the arrival of the 29th annual Nashville Boat & Sportshow.

The show, which expects 20,000 and runs Thursday through Sunday, promises boating, fishing and all other water attractions suitable for every age and any experience level.

"You can boost your boating IQ. You can fish for your very first fish. You can watch a water-skiing squirrel," said Pam Lafollette, the show's exhibit relationship manager. "There's so much to see and do. We want to introduce you to every single sport that we can introduce you to this weekend."

Showgoers can expect attractions such as a 15,000 gallon diver pool with instructors giving free scuba-diving lessons for ages 10 and up; a Wakezone Trampoline Wall intended on showing wakeboarding stunts; and a Trout Pond for ages 12 and under that will give kids a chance to catch a fish. However, Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel is the must-see attraction, Lafollette said.

"It is the craziest, funnest thing you've ever seen," she said. "So, it's a pool, a remote-controlled boat and a squirrel. What is not to love?"

Around 150 vendors will also be showing off their motorboats, pontoons, jet skis, canoes, kayaks and every other possible water vessel and gear imaginable. Lafollette said some dealers will be selling boats at a deal and nearly every boat can be customized.

Additionally, each day has a special theme and offers something new. On Thursday, attendees who dress as a fisherman and bring a coupon from the website get in for half-priced admission. Kids who come Saturday — the busiest day — will receive a free fishing pole while supplies last, and Sunday is Women on the Water Day where women will get an express pass to the front of lines.

The show will also feature celebs Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry, who will appear from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, and Peter Keys of Lynyrd Skynyrd, who will greet fans Saturday from 2-3 p.m.

Attendees can also enter a contest to win a bubblegum pink Sea-Doo watercraft and a one-day rental of a houseboat big enough to sleep 10.

NASHVILLE BOAT & SPORTSHOW

Must see: Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel, Be A Diver tank, Wakezone Trampoline Wall, Trout Pond

When: 2-9 p.m. Thursday, noon-9 p.m. Friday, 10-9 p.m. Saturday, 11-5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Nashville's Music City Center

Details: www.nashvilleboatshow.com