If you love fishing, hunting, or the great outdoors, then March 2027 has something truly special in store for you. The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo 2027 is set to take place in Greenville, South Carolina, from March 19 to 21, 2027. This three-day event is widely regarded as the largest consumer fishing show in the United States. Thousands of fans, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts gather each year to celebrate the sport, discover new gear, and watch elite bass fishing competition unfold in real time.
This complete visitor guide covers everything you need to know — from dates and venue details to exhibitors, tickets, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Event Overview: What Is the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo?
The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo runs alongside the Bassmaster Classic tournament, which is often called the Super Bowl of bass fishing. The expo itself is a massive consumer show held indoors at a convention venue. It features over 200 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing the latest in fishing rods, reels, tackle, boats, and a wide range of outdoor products.
However, the expo is more than just a shopping experience. It is a celebration of outdoor culture. Families, solo anglers, and die-hard fishing fans all find something to enjoy. There are product demonstrations, autograph sessions with professional anglers, giveaways, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
Additionally, recent editions of the event have drawn record-breaking crowds of more than 120,000 fans during Classic Week alone. The 2023 Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville set an extraordinary attendance record of 163,914 fans, making it one of the most attended fishing events in history.
2027 Event Details at a Glance
Here is a quick-reference table for the key event details:
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo 2027 |
| Dates | March 19–21, 2027 |
| Location | Greenville, South Carolina |
| Expo Venue | Greenville Convention Center |
| Weigh-In Venue | Bon Secours Wellness Arena |
| Predicted Attendance | 120,000+ fans |
| Estimated Economic Impact | $23.7 million |
| Number of Exhibitors | 200+ from around the world |
Dates and Hours: When to Go
The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo 2027 runs for three full days, from Friday, March 19, through Sunday, March 21. Based on prior years, the expected schedule follows a consistent pattern:
| Day | Expo Hours |
| Friday, March 19 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM (General Public) |
| Saturday, March 20 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday, March 21 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Therefore, if you can only attend one day, Saturday offers the longest window. Sunday closes earlier, so plan your visit accordingly. Arriving early on Saturday gives you the best chance to explore all exhibitor booths before the afternoon crowds build up.
Venue: Greenville Convention Center
The expo will be held at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, South Carolina. This is a large, modern facility well-suited to hosting a show of this scale. The convention center provides ample floor space for hundreds of exhibitor booths, demonstration areas, and activity zones.
Greenville is a vibrant city with a strong hospitality scene. The downtown area offers a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors arriving from out of town. Additionally, the city’s location in upstate South Carolina makes it easily accessible from major highways, and it sits within driving distance of Charlotte, Atlanta, and Columbia.
The weigh-ins for the professional tournament take place at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, which is also located in Greenville. Attending a weigh-in session is free and gives fans a chance to see their favorite professional anglers up close.
What to Expect from Exhibitors
One of the biggest draws of the event is the sheer variety of exhibitors on the floor. Over 200 companies attend each year, representing brands from fishing, hunting, camping, boating, and other outdoor lifestyle categories.
Here are some of the product categories you can expect to find on the expo floor:
- Fishing rods, reels, and line
- Lures, baits, and tackle
- Fishing electronics and GPS units
- Bass boats and marine equipment
- Outdoor apparel and footwear
- Hunting gear and accessories
- Camping and survival equipment
- Marine accessories and safety gear
Major industry names such as Toyota, Rapala, Yamaha Marine, and GSM Outdoors have all been prominent partners at past events. These brands do not simply set up displays — they actively engage with attendees through live demos, contests, and exclusive show deals.
Special Activities and Entertainment
Beyond shopping, the expo offers a packed schedule of activities for all ages. There is truly something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned angler or a first-time visitor.
Expect to find:
- Autograph sessions with Bassmaster Elite Series pros
- Product demonstrations from leading tackle brands
- The Classic Kick Off Party, which has featured free country music concerts in past years
- Super Dock Dogs performances, which are crowd favorites
- Giveaways and prize drawings at various booths
- Family-friendly activities and interactive displays
The B.A.S.S. Booth is always worth a visit. There, fans can get tips directly from pro anglers, sign up for B.A.S.S. membership, and stay updated on tournament coverage as it happens live on Lake Hartwell.
Lake Hartwell: The Tournament Fishing Grounds
While the expo takes place at the Greenville Convention Center, the actual Bassmaster Classic tournament will be held on Lake Hartwell. This large reservoir sits on the South Carolina and Georgia border and is well-known among anglers for its largemouth and spotted bass populations.
Lake Hartwell covers over 56,000 acres and offers a diverse range of fishing environments, from shallow coves to deep channel waters. The lake previously hosted a Bassmaster Classic, so tournament organizers and fans are familiar with its layout.
Spectator viewing areas are typically set up at and near the competition launch sites. Additionally, weigh-ins at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena give fans the most direct interaction with the tournament itself.
Tickets: How to Get In
Admission to the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo has traditionally been free of charge for general public visitors. However, always check the official B.A.S.S. website at bassmaster.com for the most up-to-date ticketing information, as details can change closer to the event date.
Weigh-in sessions at the arena are also free to attend but may require a ticket for entry due to capacity limits. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spot, especially for Saturday and Sunday weigh-ins when crowds are typically largest.
For exhibitors interested in securing booth space, B.A.S.S. sends booking codes to returning exhibitors directly. New exhibitors can apply through the First-Time Exhibitors link on the official expo page or by contacting the sales team at sales@bassmaster.com.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way at an event this size. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your trip:
- Book accommodation early: Greenville hotels fill up quickly during Classic Week. Aim to reserve your room at least three to four months in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The expo floor is large, and you will walk a significant distance over the course of a visit.
- Bring cash and cards: Most exhibitors accept credit cards, but having cash on hand is useful for smaller purchases.
- Check the schedule: Activity times and autograph sessions are announced in advance on the B.A.S.S. website. Plan your day around the sessions you do not want to miss.
- Arrive early on Saturday: This is the busiest and longest day. Getting there when doors open gives you a head start.
- Explore the city: Greenville’s Falls Park and Main Street area are worth visiting during your trip. The city offers excellent dining and walkable attractions close to the convention center.
Economic Impact and Community Benefits
The Bassmaster Classic is more than an entertaining event — it is a significant economic driver for its host city. Past editions have generated economic impacts in the tens of millions of dollars. The 2023 Classic in Knoxville produced over $35.5 million in economic impact and generated more than $2.85 million in state and local taxes.
The 2027 event in Greenville is projected to bring in approximately $23.7 million in economic spending, with an anticipated attendance of 120,000 or more visitors over the course of Classic Week. Therefore, local businesses, hotels, and restaurants all benefit significantly from hosting the event.
Conclusion
The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo 2027 promises to be an unforgettable experience for fishing fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Taking place from March 19 to 21, 2027, at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, South Carolina, the event brings together more than 200 exhibitors, tens of thousands of fans, and the top professional anglers in the world.
Whether you are coming to shop the latest gear, catch a live weigh-in at Bon Secours Wellness Arena, or simply enjoy the festival atmosphere, this event has something valuable to offer. Start planning your trip now. Book your hotel early, mark the dates on your calendar, and prepare for three days of world-class fishing culture in one of the South’s most welcoming cities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo 2027?
The expo runs from Friday, March 19 to Sunday, March 21, 2027.
Where is the 2027 expo being held?
It will be held at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, South Carolina.
Is admission to the expo free?
General admission to the expo has traditionally been free. Check bassmaster.com for confirmed ticket details closer to the event.
Where will the tournament weigh-ins take place?
Weigh-ins will be held at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in downtown Greenville.
Where is the actual fishing tournament held?
The Bassmaster Classic 2027 tournament will be fished on Lake Hartwell, located on the South Carolina–Georgia border.
How many exhibitors attend the expo?
The expo typically features over 200 exhibitors from around the world, covering fishing, hunting, camping, and boating categories.
Can families attend the expo?
The event offers activities for all ages, including giveaways, live entertainment, and interactive product demos.
How do I become an exhibitor at the 2027 expo?
Returning exhibitors receive booking codes directly from B.A.S.S. New exhibitors can apply through the First-Time Exhibitors link or by emailing sales@bassmaster.com.
What is the expected attendance at the 2027 expo?
Attendance is projected to exceed 120,000 fans during Classic Week, based on figures from recent editions.
Are there hotels near the Greenville Convention Center?
Yes, Greenville has a strong selection of hotels near the convention center and downtown area. Book early, as rooms fill up quickly during Classic Week.
