We live on the coast (a very beautiful section of coastline) with stunning islands offshore, and we also have picturesque lakes within easy striking distance. It is therefore safe to say this community loves boats.

A new opportunity awaits to go have fun at a major boat show, the California International Boat Show, April 9-12 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Find out more at www.californiaboatshow.com.

Want something to do this week? This is it.

This is the inaugural startup of an annual boat show and the idea went big, as in viral big.

The industry knew we needed a huge arena-style boat show in SoCal, and the industry is showing up in full force, which means the public will have a big, exciting show worth attending.

The variety of watercraft is going to raise eyebrows, with everything from e-Foils to yachts. Have you seen the new e-Foils? This provides an extreme sports thrill.

Whether you want a Standup Paddle Board (SUP), kayak, skiff, fishing boat, ski boat, family boat or big yacht, this show has the variety you want to explore.

We will be allowed to board boats and talk to dealers to get our questions answered. Dealers plan on having super specials available only at the show, which makes this the best opportunity to make the purchase you’ve been wanting.

I will be there and will be putting on seminars on boating safety. Come listen and let me help you stay safe on the water.

Capt. Dave Hansen of YourSaltWaterGuide podcast fame (he has roughly 800,000 followers) will be there doing seminars to help you catch more fish. His seminars are a hoot and holler.

Capt. Tiffany Vagie of Vague Rods www.vaguerods.net is hosting a huge space where the stage is and will be doing seminars on building custom fishing rods and offering her 15-week course that takes you from beginner to advanced and ready to start your own business. The classes are online and interactive, meeting once each week.

Some of her best alumni will be helping with seminars and displaying some of their best custom rods for sale. This area will be a creative hotbed of learning and buying opportunities for building and artwork for fishing rods, pool queues, golf clubs and all manner of tubular products.

The four-day show promises to be a spectacular event for folks who want ways to get on the water. There will be learning opportunities and buying opportunities, and good ol’ family fun.

I keep hearing about a highly specialized and world-famous squirrel who can do some amazing things such as water ski. The cute lil critter’s name is Squiggy, and kids (as well as adults) will love the furry bundle.

Make this an annual adventure for yourself and your family/friends.

Capt. David Bacon is a boating safety consultant and expert witness, with a background in high-tech industries and charter boat ownership and operation. He teaches classes for Santa Barbara City College and, with a lifelong interest in wildlife, writes outdoors columns for Noozhawk and other publications. The opinions expressed are his own.