Quite understandably, boaters take a great deal of pride in their crafts as well as the innovations occurring in the boating industry.

When it comes to keeping up with change - or if one is thinking about buying that first boat, these shows are a great place to learn and find specials.

The Seattle Boat Show

The largest show on the West Coast, The Big Seattle Boat Show, Indoors & Afloat, will run from Jan. 27 to Feb. 5. Along with the large number of boat manufacturers - from Starcraft and Cobalt to Stabicraft and Malibu - visitors will be treated to new models, accessories and information.

"It's the place to find everything for the boat you own," wrote Tim Flanagan in Puget Sound Maritime, an online magazine.  "Plan your year's boating activities or find the boat of your dreams."

Along with the new boat models, more than 200 free seminars covering all aspects of boating will be offered.  Moreover, there will also be advanced seminars available for a nominal fee.

For more information, visit www.seattleboatshow.com.

The Western Washington Sportsman Show

Billed as the state's biggest sportsmen's show, the 25th annual Western Washington Sportsman Show gives visitors the opportunity to check out family friendly attractions such as camp cooking demonstrations and the Kid's Free Trout Pond. But those individuals who like to fish get a good look at many of the new boats and products for 2012.

"This is a great show," Brandon Frederick, a manager at U.S. Marine Sales and Service in Olympia, said.  "It's close to home, it offers a lot of information on new products, and everyone has a good time."

The Western Washington Sportsman Show will be held at the Puyallup Fair and Events Center from Jan. 25 to 29.

For more information, visit www.thesportshow.com.

The Pacific Northwest Sportsmen's Show

For those individuals willing to travel, the 37th Pacific Northwest Sportsmen's Show will be held Feb. 8 to 12 in Portland, Ore. 

"Boating is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and be with family and friends," Frederick said.  "It's always a great day when you're on the water."

For more information, visit www.otshows.com.