The Chesapeake Bay Boat Show

2026 CHESAPEAKE BAY BOAT SHOW RETURNS TO THE MARYLAND STATE FAIRGROUNDS SUPER BOWL WEEKEND

More than 30 dealers, 100 exhibitors, expanded fishing features, live demos and family-friendly activities anchor four-day event

MIDDLE RIVER, Md (December 9, 2025) – The fifth annual Chesapeake Bay Boat Show, presented by the Marine Trades Association of Baltimore County (MTABC), returns to the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium February 5–8, 2026, with one of the region’s largest winter showcases of sport-fishing boats, cruisers, performance and ski boats, cabin cruisers, and the latest marine gear. Designed for seasoned boaters, avid anglers and families exploring their first steps into the boating lifestyle, the show will feature 30-plus boat dealers, more than 90 brands and over 100 exhibitors representing the depth and diversity of Maryland’s marine community. The event also expands its family-friendly features with hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations that introduce kids to boating, fishing and life on the Bay.

As interest in boating continues to grow across the Chesapeake Bay region, the show has become a highly anticipated kickoff to the boating season. The 2026 event builds on that momentum with an expanded fishing area, refreshed educational programming, additional interactive elements for kids and its first-ever VIP Day on Thursday, offering early access and an elevated preview experience.

“Our goal is to create an event that reflects the Chesapeake Bay boating lifestyle and welcomes everyone,” said Jason Baumgartner, President of the Marine Trades Association of Baltimore County. “Whether you’re an experienced boater, an avid angler, or curious about getting on the water for the first time, the show offers something for every age and interest. Proceeds help support MTABC’s efforts to strengthen Maryland’s marine industry, workforce and waterfront communities.”

2026 Show Highlights

• NEW: VIP Day on Thursday, Feb. 5 – offering early show access, limited-capacity demos, and an enhanced guest experience
• 30+ boat dealers showcasing 90+ boat brands, from family cruisers and pontoons to fishing and center-console vessels
• 100+ exhibitors, including boat clubs, marinas, marine electronics, tackle and gear companies, fishing charters, apparel retailers, and more
• The Hawg Trough, a 40-foot fish tank used for daily angling demonstrations
• Expanded Fishing Hall, featuring a winter fishing expo, fishing charters, crabbing supplies, tackle vendors, live seminars, and interactive technique demos
• Kids’ Corner with hands-on activities designed to introduce young attendees to boating, conservation, and the Bay
• Live music from local performers 
• Food court with regional favorites
• Free parking

Attendees can explore a four-day seminar lineup featuring regional fishing guides, captains, conservationists and outdoor professionals. Sessions will cover:

• Catfishing rigs and cold-weather tactics
• Trolling and jigging techniques on the Bay
• Fly-fishing demonstrations
• Fisheries conservation and sustainable angling discussions
• Entry-level seminars designed to help new boaters and anglers build confidence

Whether visitors want to refine advanced skills or learn the basics, the seminar series provides accessible education for all experience levels.

A Lifestyle-Driven Event

As interest in boating remains strong across Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic, the Chesapeake Bay Boat Show continues to grow as a lifestyle event that celebrates the region’s waterways and the people who depend on and enjoy them.

Exhibitors will offer guidance on affordable pathways into boating, safety best practices, maintenance tips and ways families can create meaningful time together on the water. For newcomers, the show provides an inviting environment to ask questions, compare options, and get personalized advice from industry professionals.

Attendees can take advantage of early bird offerings for tickets until Friday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m. ET.

• General admission is $12 for one day boat show access (Valid Friday – Sunday) Kids aged 12 and under free
• Military, Veterans and First Responders with valid ID are $10
• Thursday VIP Preview Day is just $25 (Valid Thursday only)

https://thechesapeakebayboatshow.com/

Media may access and utilize video footage from the 2025 event here.

About the Marine Trades Association of Baltimore County

The show is produced by the Marine Trades Association of Baltimore County (MTABC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the growth, education, and environmental stewardship of the marine industry throughout Baltimore County and the Chesapeake Bay region. MTABC works to strengthen the local maritime workforce, advance safe boating practices, and advocate for a thriving waterfront community.