Who says you can’t call coyotes on a cold winter day? Les has proven the doubters wrong on many occasions. (Photo courtesy of Les Johnson)

ESCANABA — The Upper Peninsula Trappers will host its Annual Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo on July 11-12 at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba. Hours are from 8 a.m-4 p.m. both days (all times EDT). Admission is $10 for both days and kids under 12 and under are free. Don’t pass up the Friday Night Fish Fry and banquet/fundraiser! Call Julie Gartland at 906-786-1227 for your reservations (cost is $25). Camping is available and food and refreshments will be for sale on the grounds. There will be lots to see and do including many activities for the kids so bring the whole family.

The All-Star lineup of presenters includes Don Nyman, Les Johnson, Jeff Hagerty, Laura and Zac Gidney, Jeff Dunlap, Dave Radandt, Paul Antczak and Jim Churchill. Their days and times can be found on the U.P. Trappers website. Well-known trapping supply vendors and other vendors – selling just about everything imaginable – will fill two buildings. Expect some real bargains, special “Convention Prices” and you’ll avoid shipping costs! A great chance to stock up for the upcoming seasons.

One of the presenters is Les Johnson (“Predator Quest” superstar!). He takes the stage at 10 a.m. Saturday. Les is from Nevada and is an accomplished trapper, archery hunter, outfitter/guide and marksman. He has won countless coyote calling awards. One of his many remarkable coyote calling accomplishments was winning the National, World and Midwest Coyote Calling Championships during the same season. In that competition, he called in 42 coyotes in 4½ days! Johnson has since retired from television (after 14 years). Now he is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. “I have seen Les’s demos before and his predator calling is so realistic we all think coyotes will start coming right into the demo building! Seriously, his presentations are outstanding, attendees are sure to enjoy it and learn a lot!,” stated Jeremy Lundin (secretary/treasurer of District Three.)

For “last minute” vendor space or questions, contact Mary Theoret at 906-241-6155 or mltheoret@gmail.com. For detailed information on the convention itself visit www.uptrappers.com and choose U.P. Trappers Convention from the menu.