2025 Event Schedule
The 2025 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show has something for everyone. The stage schedule offers a variety of engaging activities, from cooking demos to tips and tricks from expert outdoorsmen. You can enjoy cooking presentations, fishing and hunting seminars by experts, and even meet special guests. This lineup ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in culinary arts or outdoor adventures.
March 7 Event Schedule
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage Schedule for Friday, March 7, 2025
12:00 p.m. “Catching Summer Bass” with Mike Norris, Master Angler and Host of Outdoors with Mike Norris on WBIG 1280 AM
Mike Norris will present proven tips and strategies for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass during the “Dog Days” of summer. Mike is a fully licensed fishing guide on Wisconsin’s Big Green Lake and a 2025 Inductee into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. His tips and strategies for summertime bass will work wherever you fish for smallmouth bass.
1:00 p.m. “Extending Your Hunting Season with CVA Muzzleloaders” Tim Andrus, Host of Rush Outdoors TV; World of Rush Outdoors TV; and National Pro Staffer for Realtree
Tim Andrus will be giving away a CVA Muzzleloader at his presentation.
2:00 p.m. “Wisconsin Hunting Camps” with Loren Voss, Wisconsin Turkey Commander
Dive into the rich traditions and thrilling experiences of hunting in Wisconsin. Loren will share expert tips, captivating stories, and invaluable insights into the best hunting practices and locations across the state. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, this presentation promises to be both informative and inspiring.
3:00 p.m. “Smallie Success with the Ned Rig & and Other Top Lures!” with Bill Schultz, Smallmouth Bass Legend
Join Bill Schultz as he delves into the secrets of his smallmouth bass fishing success. Since adopting the Ned Rig in 2016, Bill has significantly boosted his catch numbers, reaching an impressive total of 33,359 smallies. This presentation is packed with insights for both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. Bill will cover the techniques and strategies that have worked for him in various rivers and the renowned waters of Sturgeon Bay/Door County.
4:00 p.m. “Mastering Modern Bass Fishing” with Joe Thomas, Professional Bass Angler; TV personality and Host of Pelican’s Ultimate Match Fishing and Stihl’s Reel in the Outdoors with Joe Thomas on the OUTDOOR Channel
Joe will demonstrate modern bass fishing tactics, lures and techniques. This seminar is designed to help anglers of all ages and skill levels catch more fish!
5:00 p.m. “Catch Your First Musky” with Steve Heiting, Professional Musky Angler and Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer
Fishing Hall of Famer Steve Heiting will discuss tackle, lures, lakes and patterns that will help anyone who has ever dreamed of fishing muskies. In addition to his multi-media seminar, Steve will demonstrate in the Hawg Trough five lures every musky angler — beginner or pro — should use.
6:00 p.m. Pete Maina, North America’s #1 Authority on Muskie & Pike Fishing
Join Pete Maina as he explores the diverse techniques for working muskie baits. Learn why it’s crucial to avoid falling into repetitive patterns with your retrieves and discover the realities of modern-day fishing.
Lumberjack Stage Schedule for Friday, March 7, 2025
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #1
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
5:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
6:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #2
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage Schedule for Friday, March 7, 2025
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
5:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
March 8 Event Schedule
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage Schedule for Saturday, March 8, 2025
11:00 a.m. “Fishing Basics” with Greg Karch, Learn 2 Fish With Us
Fishing Basics uses an interactive approach to introduce people to the skills and equipment needed to begin fishing. This seminar is perfect for families, youth and adults. You will learn: safety while fishing, how to use a spin cast and spinning fishing combo, how to cast accurately and safely, different basic fishing presentations, how to tie a Clinch and Palomar knot, fish identification, live and artificial baits we use to fish, keeping a fishing journal and so much more… This seminar is great for all ages who want to fish!
The first 75 Youth 16 and under that attend the seminar will receive a spin cast fishing combo and fishing education book.
12:00 p.m. Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Join us for the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, where we honor individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater fishing. Celebrate their achievements, hear inspiring stories, and be part of a tradition that highlights the rich history and bright future of freshwater fishing.
1:00 p.m. Pete Maina, North America’s #1 Authority on Muskie & Pike Fishing; alongside Kristine Fisher, Tournament Musky and Bass Angler
2:00 p.m. Violet Talley, Champion Tournament Angler; Hunter; Entrepreneur; Creative Expert
3:00 p.m. “Do’s and Don’ts’ of Running a Trail Camera” Tim Andrus, Host of Rush Outdoors TV; World of Rush Outdoors TV; and National Pro Staffer for Realtree Since 1996
Tim Andrus will be giving away a Covert Trail Camera at his presentation.
4:00 p.m. “What Makes Up a Hunting Camp” with Loren Voss, Wisconsin Turkey Commander
Learn about the essential elements that create a successful hunting camp, from gear and setup to camaraderie and tradition. Loren will share his expertise and personal experiences to help you build the perfect hunting camp.
5:00 p.m. “Spring Fishing in Door County” with Dale Stroschein, Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Angler; Head Guide – Wacky Walleye Guide Service
Join legendary angler Dale Stroschein for an engaging fishing seminar focused on spring fishing in Door County. Drawing on over 40 years of experience, Dale will share expert techniques and strategies for targeting both walleye and smallmouth bass. This presentation offers anglers of all skill levels the chance to learn from one of the most respected names in the sport.
6:00 p.m. “Time on the Water = More River Smallmouth” with Mike Mladenik, Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Guide for 40+ years
With over 47 years of experience as a Wisconsin Fishing Guide, Mike emphasizes that time on the water is essential for success. He explains how to consistently catch big river smallmouth bass throughout spring, summer, and fall. His presentation includes tips on using topwater baits and soft plastics, as well as techniques for fishing various types of river structures.
Lumberjack Stage Schedule for Saturday, March 8, 2025
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #3
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
5:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
6:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #4
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage Schedule for Saturday, March 8, 2025
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
5:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
March 9 Event Schedule
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage Schedule for Sunday, March 9, 2025
11:00 a.m. “Beyond the Basics” with Greg Karch, Learn 2 Fish With Us
Beyond The Basics builds upon the skills and equipment learned in the Fishing Basics seminar. This seminar uses an interactive approach and is perfect for families, adults and youth. In this seminar you will learn: safety while fishing, how to use a bait caster and line counter reel, different presentations such as jigging, trolling, pulling crawler harnesses, how locators work, how to utilize lake/river maps along with a discussion on where and when to find fish, how to fillet a fish along with ways to cook fish and so much more…
The first 75 youth 16 and under will receive a Future Pro shirt, mini tackle box with tackle and a fishing education book.
All attending Beyond The Basics seminar will go into a drawing for Pflueger Spinning fishing combo, Berkley Series 1 Spinning Rod Medium Light and a pair of Off Shore Tackle Company planer boards with tattle flags. 3 Winners will be Selected.
12:00 p.m. “Best Bites around Milwaukee” with Jim O’Neil, TV & Podcast Host of Midwest Outdoors
Discover the Best Bites around Milwaukee with Jim’s monthly calendar, featuring top spots to visit, the best gear to use, and tips on how to make the most of your fishing trips—all within a short drive of Milwaukee!
1:00 p.m. “Chasing GIANT Bass” with Mark Zona, Host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show on the OUTDOOR Channel; Co-Host of the Bassmaster Elite Series on ESPN2; Bass Fishing Hall of Famer
Join Mark Zona for an exhilarating presentation on the art of bass fishing. Discover the secrets behind catching those elusive giant bass, learn tips and techniques from one of the best in the business, and get ready for an engaging and entertaining session that will leave you inspired to hit the water!
Lumberjack Stage Schedule for Sunday, March 9, 2025
11:00 a.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #5
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Finals
Watch as the top 15 dogs from the Fastest Retriever qualifier rounds compete in the Finals for cash prizes! Each dog will run individually down and back a 100-foot run, retrieve a toy, and cross both lines. The fastest retrievers will vie for 1st place ($300), 2nd place ($150), and 3rd place ($75). Don’t miss out on the excitement as these incredible dogs race to the finish!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage Schedule for Sunday, March 9, 2025
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
2:00 p.m. Wisconsin Buck & Bear Club Awards Ceremony
The Awards Ceremony will celebrate the best trophy deer entries at the Milwaukee Sports Show across three categories: Firearms, Archery, and Crossbow. Special honors include Judge’s Choice, Overall Best of Show Typical, Overall Best of Show Non-Typical, Best of Show Bear, and Best of Show Found/Collected. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the crowning of the finest trophy deer!
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
Event Features
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Event Schedule
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