Pete Wenners has lived on Table Rock since 1989, and has been competing in touring bass tournaments since 1992, beginning with Central Pro-Am and then qualifying into BASS Top 150’s and the FLW Tour. In the recent 2024 season he finished out in top 10 of regional events and more recently he and his partner qualified for and won the Championship Event on Table Rock in the Anglers In Action tournament series, taking home a fully rigged boat from this great family oriented tournament circuit.

Pete will be sharing fishing stories and information at 3:00 p.m. in the Center Hall of the E-Plex Event Center, Springfield, MO during the Ozark Outdoor Expo on Friday, March 21st. Presented by CanAm, the Expo will be held Friday, March 21st and Saturday, March 22nd at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. Show hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Additional information is available at ozarkoutdoorexpo.com or by calling the fairgrounds at 417-833-2660.

While tournament fishing fulfills his competitive nature, kicking back in the boat with families, friends – new and old – catching fish and time on the water is so satisfying. A fishing guide on Table Rock since 1993, he prides himself in teaching young anglers how to start in a fishing career using his experience and skill that he has proven in the years of professional tournaments. He guides generational families and businessmen and women, many whom over the years have become close friends. Fishing, he describes as therapeutic, even on tough days.

He is a supporter of Cross Trail Outfitters, a national non-profit Christian organization founded in 2004 with the goal of discipling and mentoring boys between the ages of 7-20. Through hunting and fishing camps and outings, we equip youth with skills in the outdoors while guiding them toward Christ. Each year he joins a few other local professional anglers in taking the youth on the water for a few days of fishing with a professional angler. We have two boys fishing camps on Table Rock. Pete also supports many other charities, but this one –CTO- is not only close to our hearts but close to our home.

Pete has published weekly video fishing reports on YouTube since 2011, the first local guide to do free fishing reports so anglers on Table Rock could improve their catches and learn new skills. Anglers from other areas as well, whether planning to fish Table Rock Lake on family vacations, business travel or tournament events can see what is going on now, or searching back for seasonal info to learn patterns, etc. You can learn a lot about the lake by watching them. To watch Table Rock Lake Weekly Fishing Report: https://www.youtube.com/c/Hookedonbass
To Contact Pete: 417-860-8163

                                

The Ozark Outdoor Expo welcomes Rockbridge Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch, Rockbridge, Missouri as the premier sponsor for the 2025 show. Featuring hunting, fishing, archery, power sports and more, the show will be held March 21-22 in the E-Plex Event Center at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Missouri.

The 2,000 plus acre resort in the heart of the Ozark Mountains is the perfect setting for a relaxing get-away. From the family vacation to a corporate retreat, the staff can design the perfect trip for you.

First class trout fishing and comfortable lodging await in this beautiful Ozark location. Rockbridge is hidden away in a valley along the bluff lined Spring Creek and offers an atmosphere and historic charm unique to the Ozark Mountains. Discover the beautiful and enchanting scenery, interesting history, casual fine dining and staff who make it easy to stay just a little longer.

The resort’s lodging accommodations include standard rooms, upscale suites, two remodeled 19th century farm houses and two spacious log condos. Enjoy meals in the on-site restaurant. Relax at the Grist Mill Pub in the mill building.

The Rockbridge Hatchery started in 1954. It was impressive; one wire cage sitting in the creek. Over the years, we have learned many lessons about raising these spectacular Rainbows. Rockbridge now raises over 200,000 fish yearly in our hatchery. The eggs are taken by hand, the hatchlings fed by hand, and the trout moved by hand assuring that our trout meet the high standards of the Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch.

Enjoy wild turkey and whitetail hunting during valid Missouri seasons. In addition to hunting, check out the wobble trap, 10-station sporting clays course and five stands for the shooting enthusiast. Fishing guides are available. We offer a meeting facility for private events. Wi-Fi is available in the lobby, restaurant, Grist Mill Pub and meeting room.
Bring a book and decompress or enjoy the many activities. Make your reservation today!

When you attend the Ozark Outdoor Expo, you will have the opportunity to visit with Rockbridge representatives and learn about their wonderful resort. Be sure to snag a swag bag emblazoned with the Rockbridge logo to carry all your Outdoor Expo goodies
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For more information, visit rockbridgemo.com or call 417-679-3619

January 20, 2025

In a land where the opening day of deer season is nearly a proclaimed holiday, and fishing opportunities abound, the Ozark Outdoor Expo comes to life.

Presented by Can-Am, the event will be held Friday, March 21st and Saturday, March 22nd in the E-Plex Event Center at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Missouri.

Trade show displays will include hunting, fishing, ATVs and UTVs, outdoor clothing and gear, guides and outfitters, blinds, trapping, real estate, conservation, land management and so much more.

“We are excited to host an event that celebrates hunting, fishing, power sports and other activities loved by so many in the Ozarks and beyond” stated Expo Co-Manager, Lance Markley. “Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to interest them at the show.”

In the trade show, a smorgasbord of power sports models will be on display. Manufacturers and dealers will showcase ATV and SXS brands including Can-Am, Bad Boy, Bobcat, Hisun, Honda, Intimidator, John Deere, Kawasaki, Kioti, Polaris, Roxor and Segway.

The Ozark Indoor 3D Archery Tournament will begin at 9:00 A.M. on Saturday in the West Hall of the E-Plex. The event will consist of one 20-target indoor round with a variety of classes for male and female youth and adults. Contestants will compete for cash paybacks and prizes. “Step inside for the ultimate 3D archery experience – whether you’re ready to compete or just want to witness the action, the Expo has you covered” said Co-Manager Libby Nelson. Entry information is available on the show website.

More show features, seminars and activities will be announced as the show dates draw closer.

Show hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds is easily accessed on the north side of Springfield just off Interstate 44 and Highway 13.

While many booths are already sold, a number of excellent booths remain available. Contact Markley at 620-423-2355, lance@ozarkempirefair.com or Nelson at 417-849-8278, libby@ozarkempirefair.com.

Additional show information is available at ozarkoutdoorexpo.com or by calling the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds at 417-833-2660.