The musky has a way of bringing anglers together like no other species, and today from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., that shared musky passion will take center stage at the NY Musky Expo 2026. The event will be held at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, located at 10 Dunham Avenue in Celoron, sitting directly on the shores of world-famous Chautauqua Lake.

Few bodies of water are as closely tied to musky fishing as Chautauqua Lake. Its reputation stretches far beyond Western New York, known nationally for producing trophy fish, heart-stopping follows, and unforgettable days on the water. Hosting the expo at a lakeside hotel places anglers right in the heart of musky country, where the conversations, seminars and gear on display are all rooted in the waters just outside the windows. It is a fitting home for an event designed to inspire both new musky anglers and those who have spent decades chasing this elusive fish.

Over the course of two exciting days, the NY Musky Expo will bring together lure makers, guides, conservationists, boat dealers and anglers who all share a deep respect for the species. Attendees can expect to see a wide range of musky gear and resources, including rods, reels, line, leaders, lures, nets, electronics, lodging options and more. Renowned lure makers such as Zach Baker, Hans the Carver, Red October Baits, Fretthold Baits, Chaos Tackle, Wiley Lures, Hays Baits, Bucko Branded Baits, Musky Candies Lures, the Schoss Bait Company and so many others will all be on hand, offering anglers the chance to talk directly with the creators behind the baits designed to tempt one of freshwater’s most difficult predators.

Whether someone is just beginning his musky fishing journey or refining a seasoned approach, the expo floor offers something for every level of experience.

Photo courtesy of Zach Baker The NY Musky Expo 2026 chairperson is Captain Katia Rivers, who is no stranger to catching musky, says, “Our show this year has expanded to include a wider variety of musky angler essentials, especially good advice from the lure makers and guides that are here.”

A major highlight of the weekend is the lineup of seminars, all of which are included with the price of admission. These sessions provide valuable insight, real-world experience, and plenty of musky stories to go along with the knowledge shared. This afternoon at 2:30, the main stage will host a highly anticipated seminar titled “All Star Musky Tell-All.” Featuring Captain Kevin Goldberg, captain Cullen Veiders, and captain David White, the presentation draws on the collective experience of anglers who have caught thousands of muskies over their careers. Moderated by respected musky voice John Pennsyl, the seminar promises an engaging and informative look into what it truly takes to consistently catch these legendary fish.

Sunday’s programming continues with another must-see seminar event at 11:30 a.m., when a professional musky guide question-and-answer panel takes the stage. This session gives attendees direct access to some of the most well-known guides in the musky world, including Captain Vince Kaloz, Captain Jason Quintano, Captain Mike Hulbert, Captain Ed Pascue and Captain Josh McDunn. From tactics and seasonal patterns to equipment choices and on-the-water decision making, this interactive discussion is designed to help anglers get real answers to the real musky questions that they have. For anyone who has ever had a lingering musky mystery, this is a can’t-miss opportunity.

The NY Musky Expo also places a strong emphasis on youth involvement and conservation, ensuring the future of musky fishing remains strong. Both days will feature a “Kids Corner” hosted by NY Muskies Inc. — Chapter 69, where children can make their own lure to take home and participate in a coloring contest. It is a fun, hands-on way to introduce young anglers to the sport and spark a lifelong interest in fishing. Adding to the educational experience, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will be on site with live musky fingerlings, explaining how muskies are raised at the Prendergast Fish Hatchery and highlighting the important role fisheries management and science play in sustaining healthy musky populations.

Tonight brings another long-standing Musky Expo tradition to life with the infamous “Lure Swap,” running from 6-8p.m. This lively gathering is a favorite among musky anglers, offering a chance to trade baits, talk tactics, and share stories that only musky fishing can produce.

Admission to the NY Musky Expo is $15 for a single day or $20 for a two-day pass, making it an exceptional value for an event packed with knowledge, gear and camaraderie. From start to finish, attendees will be immersed in all things musky, surrounded by people who understand the thrill of the follow, the heartbreak of the miss and the rush of success when everything finally comes together.

For two days in the heart of winter, the NY Musky Expo 2026 turns the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel into a warm gathering place for those who chase one of freshwater’s most legendary fish. It is a celebration of the musky, the lake that helped define its legacy, and the anglers who can’t stop coming back for just one more cast.

Gotta love the outdoors!

CALENDAR

Jan. 31-Feb. 1: NY Musky Expo, Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, Celeron, small admission, children under 12 are free, Info: Katia Rivers, 585-668-2550.

Feb. 1: Lakewood Rod and Gun Club, Winterfest Banquet & Drawing, dinner – 3 p.m., Music by “Ion Sky” 2-6 p.m. Info: 716-763-3955

Feb. 3: Children in the Stream, Youth Fly Fishing program, free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center, SUNY Fredonia, 7-8:30 p.m., 12 years old and older, info: 716-410-7003 (Alberto Rey).

Feb. 7: Lakeshore Long-beards NWTF Banquet, White Inn, 5 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m. dinner, live auction, raffles, annual youth event fund-raiser; Info: Robert Turk, 716-673-6703; https://events.nwtf.org/EVT-20816.

Feb. 14: WNY Walleye Fisherman’s Flea Market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Knights of Columbus, 36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg; Info: Chris Kempf, 716-400-9258; Jim Plinzke, 716-861-8817.

Feb. 19-22: Greater Niagara Fishing Expo, Niagara Falls. Visit www.niagarafishingexpo.com for info.