At the Puyallup Sportsmen’s Show in Washington, few attractions draw a crowd quite like the Mack’s Lure Walleye Tank. From the moment visitors step up to the glass, they’re greeted not just by the sleek, powerful presence of walleye, but by a deeper story one rooted in preparation, education, and a shared passion for angling culture.
This tank is far more than a display. It’s a living classroom, carefully planned and expertly managed by Mack’s Lure Pro Staff members Jaime "J Rod" Rodriguez, Jim Davis, and Cameron Walker. Together, they bring decades of on-the-water experience and a strong commitment to conservation, ensuring the fish are healthy, stress-free, and showcased in a way that reflects respect for the resource.
Long before the show doors open, preparation begins. Setting up a walleye tank requires attention to every detail water quality, oxygen levels, temperature control, and safe transport procedures. Mack's Lure Pro staff work closely to ensure the environment closely mimics the natural conditions walleye need to thrive.
“The goal is to make the fish as comfortable as possible,” explains the team. “When the fish are healthy and behaving naturally, it creates a better learning experience for everyone watching.”
From gradual acclimation to constant monitoring throughout the show, the pro staff’s focus is always on fish welfare first. This behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed, but it’s the foundation of a successful and responsible exhibit.
The Mack’s Lure Walleye Tank is also a celebration of walleye as a species and of the anglers who pursue them. Visitors have the rare chance to see how walleye move, react, and hold in the water, offering insights that translate directly to real-world fishing situations.
Throughout the show, Mack's Lure Pro staff engage with the crowd, answering questions, sharing techniques, and breaking down lure presentations and seasonal patterns. These conversations turn curiosity into knowledge and spark inspiration for anglers of all experience levels.
Education and Conservation at the Core Education is at the heart of the tank’s mission. While walleye may be the stars, the lessons extend well beyond a single species. The pro staff emphasizes ethical angling, proper handling, selective harvest, and the importance of protecting aquatic habitats.
By showing how careful stewardship and informed fishing practices go hand in hand, the tank reinforces a simple message: great fishing depends on healthy fisheries.
Whether you’re a seasoned walleye angler or someone seeing the fish for the first time, the Mack’s Lure Walleye Tank offers a unique and memorable experience. It’s a place to learn, to connect with knowledgeable professionals, and to gain a deeper respect for both the sport of fishing and the resources that make it possible.
At the Puyallup Sportsmen’s Show, the Walleye Tank stands as a clear reminder that angling culture isn’t just about catching fish, it’s about understanding them, caring for them, and passing that respect on to the next generation.
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