The Knoxville Fishing Expo, held in Chilihowee Park this weekend, featured every fishing apparatus any angler could imagine.

Booths were set up throughout the building by various East Tennessee companies and organizations offering information and merchandise.

Several booths promoted fishing tournaments and trips, such as the Bass N’ Action Tournament Trail. Most of these competitions are sponsored by Triton Boats, one of the most popular brands of fishing boats.

Different fishing leagues were also there to persuade fishers to join their group. Some of the predominant ones included the Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League, Anglers for Christ and Fishers of Men.

The most featured aspect of the Expo was the merchandise marketed to anglers. Equipment for bass, crappie and fly fishing were available for people to sample and buy.

Among those offered were lures of many kinds, such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits and artificial jelly worms of many colors. Many companies also were selling a vast array of rods and reels.

This event was not only one for the spectator, but also for the participant. On the second level of the complex were many games and competitions for the amateur and professional angler. Contestants could try their hand at virtual reality fishing, casting contests and fishing in the kiddie trout pond.

Prizes for winners competing in tournaments and leagues included considerable sums of money and fishing equipment.

In addition to all this, each day featured a guest speaker giving tips on the art of fishing.

Among those visiting the Expo were three students from Carson-Newman college, who enjoyed looking around at the equipment and receiving free merchandise.

I wanted to see if there were any girls who know how to fish, sophomore Daniel Planters said.