Monday, March 31, 2014

2014 Ice Age Trail Guidebook Release Party


2014 ICE AGE TRAIL GUIDEBOOK & ATLAS RELEASE PARTY
Tuesday, April 29th, 2014, at 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison, WI

Join us as we celebrate the release of the new 2014 Ice Age Trail Guidebook and Atlas. There will be cake, friendly IATA folks to answer questions and a talk by Todd McMahon, avid IAT hiker, on The Best Day Hikes & Backpacking trips on the IAT at 6 PM. Buy the Guidebook or Atlas during the event and get entered to win your choice of Merrell hiking boots valued at $100-150. Luke Kloberdanz, IATA Outreach and Education Manager said, “I really like the new Guidebook and Atlas. They are very hiker-friendly.” There may even be an appearance by Monte, the IATA Mammoth! Please join us to support and celebrate this great organization!
 
Here's a little more info on the talk Todd will be giving -
The Ice Age Trail goes through some pretty amazing places. Avid IAT hiker, Todd McMahon will tell you about some of the best IAT day hikes within an hour of Madison and discuss the best spots for multi-day backpacking trips. Todd has hiked and/or backpacked over 800 miles of the Ice Age Trail, so he has a wealth of knowledge to share. He is also known for photographing the trail, so expect plenty of photos in his presentation. We hope you’ll join us! This is a free event.

Check out more about the event here!

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Headlamp Hustle's Table Bluff Segment venue is Gorgeous!

We visited the site of the Headlamp Hustle yesterday morning and it is beautiful. I imagine it will be even more picturesque come May 23rd when the ground and water has thawed at least some. Here's hoping it's thawed all the way! 
 
We are getting very excited for this event. We enjoy working with the Ice Age Trail Alliance and encouraging people to get outdoors, making this event a reason we are in the outdoor business. 


 Check out the beautiful pictures and hopefully get inspired to join us in support of the IATA for a trail run or walk on the Table Bluff Segment of the IATA near Cross Plains.



The gnarly Burr Oaks along the trail are really neat. The Swamplovers Foundation who cares for this segment of the IAT have done a wonderful job clearing invasive species of plants.

We could hear Sandhill Cranes calling on our hike yesterday. Always a wonderful sound. There were also geese on the frozen ponds, but other than that it was very quiet and peaceful on our hike.

We hope you'll join us in May! Lake Louie is going to supply beer for the event and we have Salomon Trail Running shoes for the Male and Female 10K top overall finishers! Exciting!!
To register, click here.


Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Fly Fishing Rendezvous is this Thursday!


Just a reminder that Thursday is the 8th Annual Fly Fishing Rendezvous from 5 P.M. - 8 P.M. at our west side location - 231 Junction Road, Madison. Once a year deals on Simms and other fly fishing gear. Test your skills at the Rio Distance Challenge for prizes. Shop the new gear, learn some new fly patterns, hear some stories, kick off the fishing season! We'll have snacks and beer too. We hope you'll stop by and see us! Check out more about the event here!



Friday, March 21, 2014

Fly Fishing to celebrate the First Day of Spring!

Our fly fishing guru, Craig Amacker, celebrated the first day of spring with a good bluewing olive hatch on a southwest Wisconsin spring creek yesterday. Hatch went from 12:30-2:30 and good enough to get multiple fish eating on top. What're you waitin' for? Creeks are in great shape and fish are eating up top and down below. Hot flies were baetis sparkle duns #18, CDC baetis #18, tan scuds, pink squirrels, big green baetis nymph, juju baetis nymph, and the leechinator. Go rip some lips!




Don't forget to join us next Thursday for Fontana Sports' 8th Annual Fly Fishing Rendezvous. We’ll have the latest greatest in fly fishing gear, factory reps on hand, snacks & beverages. Get Once a Year Special Pricing on Simms and other brands that Day Only. Test Cast The latest greatest fly rods from SAGE. Put your casting skills to test in the Rio Gold Distance Shoot Out. Discover new innovative fly patterns from our expert local fly tyers. Enter to win cool door prizes. And we'll have a Fly Line Trade-in Program: bring in your old Fly Line, get $20 OFF a new Rio or Scientific Anglers Fly Line. We hope you'll join us!


Tuesday, March 18, 2014

NEW WI Bike Fed Shirts have ARRIVED!

Sweet, new 2014 Wisconsin Bike Fed shirts are in at both of our locations and on Fontana Sports website! Love the new colors & designs as well as supporting this important organization!

Bike Fed Shirts

How cute is this new onesie for your biker baby?! 
Bike Fed Shirts

They will go quickly like they always do, but luckily we get them in from Milwaukee, so we place weekly orders and usually have them in again pretty fast.


Monday, March 17, 2014

Fly Fishing Rendezvous next week!


If you've joined us before you know what a good time the Fly Fishing Rendezvous is and if you haven't, you have been missing out! It's a great opportunity to stop by the shop and chat with other fly fishing enthusiasts as well as enjoy a beer, snacks and great deals. Our brand Reps will be here to answer questions and talk about the latest and greatest gear. Plus, we'll have some friendly competition going on with our Rio Gold Distance Shoot out. Did I mention we have door prizes?! We hope you'll join us!


Friday, March 14, 2014

Headlamp Hustle benefitting the Ice Age Trail Alliance



Headlamp Hustle 5K or 10K Trail Run/Walk supporting the Ice Age Trail Alliance
Friday, May 23, 2014 at 7:30 pm
5K or 10K Run / Walk
Table Bluff Segment of the Ice Age Trail, Cross Plains, WI
$45 individual or $40 per person for teams of 4 or more - $10 of each registration will go to the IATA.

Come out and support the Ice Age Trail Alliance by joining in our Headlamp Hustle! Join us for the cool experience of running or walking with headlamps on the Table Bluff Segment of the Ice Age Trail in Cross Plains. Your registration includes a Princeton Tec Byte Headlamp (19.99 value), race bib, timing, 1 beer and trail snacks. Weather Permitting there will be a bonfire and live music going after the event. Food and additional beer will be available for purchase or with a suggested donation with all proceeds going to the IATA. The Headlamp Hustle is all about having a great time and getting some exercise with other outdoor enthusiasts and raising funds for a very important organization. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit here!


Commonly Asked Questions
  • Where will we be walking/running? Located in the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin, the Table Bluff Segment traverses restored prairie as well as steep, rocky slopes. There is approximately 200 feet of total vertical relief and several vistas from the heads of two valleys and two prominent goat prairies that offer great views of the Driftless Area. The path is dirt, mowed grass and glacial till (gravel).
  • Will most of the walk/run be in the dark? Only a portion of the walk or run will be in the dark and that depends on your speed and distance. We want to get everyone out (10K’s will start first) and on the course well before dark and then on the way back in it should be around or after sunset. Anyone who is worried about the trail in the dark can start with the earlier waves. No problem! The after party will be in the dark and we will all need our headlamps for it. 
  • Is registration refundable? No, registrations are not refundable. 
  • Is there a weather cancellation policy? Yes, if the temperature is below freezing or there is severe lightning the event will be cancelled. All registration fees besides the processing fees and the headlamp costs will be donated to the IATA. It is very unlikely the event will be canceled, so please come dressed appropriately for the weather. Check Fontana Sports’ Facebook page for cancellation notices. 
  • Is this a timed event? Yes. Times will be posted after the event.
  • Are there set start times? Yes, we will do waves of start times. We’ll get the 10K folks out first and then the 5k. If for some reason you miss your wave, you can start with the next one. 
  • Can I bring animals to the event? No, please keep animals at home since it will be dark out for a portion of the event. 
  • How late will this event go? The event will be over by 10 pm, but people are welcome to come and go as they please.
  • Can I bring someone who isn’t registered to the event? Yes, people who are not registered are welcome to attend, cheer on participants, enjoy the atmosphere and buy a drink.
  • When does registration close? Registration will close on Thursday, May 22nd at Noon, so we can make sure to have enough supplies for the event. 
  • Is there parking? Yes, there is a parking lot, but it is small, so please carpool if you can. From the Ice Age Trail Alliance headquarters in Cross Plains, take USH-14 west 1.2 mi At CTH-KP turn right and go north 2.4 mi. At Table Bluff Rd. turn left and go west 0.3 mi. Trailhead parking area on the south side of the road. There is also additional Parking on Scheele Rd. From the IATA headquarters in Cross Plains, take USH-14 west 1.2 mi. At CTH-KP turn right and go north 0.3 mi. At Scheele Rd. turn left and go west 0.3 mi to a gated gravel road on the north side and the Trail access. Limited roadside parking in mowed off-road area. Please do not block access road.
  • Are there restrooms? No, there are not restrooms on site. 
  • How many lumens does the Byte Headlamp give off? 50 lumens
  • Why is Fontana Sports putting on this event? We wanted to work to raise money for non-profit organizations we believe in while helping our community to get active outdoors. Fontana Sports, which is a locally owned business, has always had a close relationship with the IATA as we find the organization incredibly important for encouraging people to get outside and appreciate the outdoors; as well as the work they do to protect and support Wisconsin lands. The Hutchinson’s, who own Fontana Sports, have had so many great adventures, day hikes and winter explorations on the IAT. We hope you’ll join us!
  • Who can I contact with questions about the event? Elizabeth Hutchinson at Elizabeth@FontanaSports.com

For more events hosted by Fontana Sports and event information visit Fontana Sports Events web-page!

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Don't Miss Cinco de Fido this spring!

 

Cinco de Fido Dog Jog supporting the Dane County Humane Society
Monday, May 5, 2014 at 5:30 pm
1 Mile or 5K Walk/Run + a Fiesta!
Brittingham Park & Shelter, 401 S. Brittingham Pl, Madison, WI 53715
$30 Adult/$20 Child (12 yrs & under) - $10 of each registration will go to the DCHS

Come out and support your Dane County Humane Society by joining in this Dog Jog Fiesta! Bring your Fido (or don’t, we’ll leave that up to you) and join us for a run/walk in beautiful downtown Madison. Your registration includes a sombrero (instead of a race bib – you or Fido can wear it), a Tex Tubb’s Taco or nacho bar (they’re still deciding what to serve), 1 beer or soda, and some festive music. Cinco de Fido is all about having a great time while engaging in some exercise with other animal lovers and raising funds for a very important organization. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, Click here!
**PLEASE make sure to select in-store pickup for the shipping option & print your receipt to bring it with you to the event. You do not have to come in to pick up the ticket.**

Extras:
Beers and Sodas for purchase after the first included one with all proceeds going to the DCHS.
A Cinco de Fido Picture “Booth” area where all proceeds go to the DCHS. Get a keepsake photo of you and your Fido!



Commonly Asked Questions
  • Where will we be walking/running? We will be starting and finishing near the Brittingham shelter. There is a concrete bike/walk path for all registrants to use. The paths loop distance is 5k and anyone doing the 1 mile distance will be walking out a half mile and back a half mile.
  • Is registration refundable? No, registrations are not refundable.
  • Is this a timed event? No, we will not be timing this event. It is just for fun and a great way to get some exercise.
  • Is there a weather cancellation policy? No, the event will take place rain or shine. Please come dressed appropriately.
  • Do I need to have a dog to participate in this event? Absolutely not. Dogs are welcome, but you should definitely attend even if you don’t have a dog or your dog can’t make it.
  • Are there set start times? We will try to do waves of start times. We understand everyone works until different times in the evening, so we will have start times from 5:30 – 6:15 pm.
  • Can I bring any other animals? No, please keep the participants to humans and dogs. 
  • How late will this event go? The event will be over by 8:30 pm, but people are welcome to come and go as they please.
  • Is there a Team Registration option? No, not this year. We’ll see how it goes the first year and make adjustments for the following year. Feel free to come as a team though, you’ll just have to register separately. 
  • Can I bring someone who isn’t registered to the event? Yes, people who are not registered are welcome to attend, cheer on participants, enjoy the atmosphere and buy a drink or take part in the photo booth to help us raise funds for the DCHS.
  • When does registration close? Cinco de Fido registration will close on Sunday, May 4th at Noon, so we can make sure to have enough supplies for the event.
  • Is there parking? Yes, there is a parking lot near the shelter at 401 S. Brittingham Place.
  • Why is Fontana Sports putting on this event? As a locally owned business, we know the value of the Dane County Humane Society as well as Humane Societies nationwide. The Hutchinson’s, who own Fontana Sports, have adopted many wonderful animals from the Humane Society and LOVE animals. We wanted to find a way to support a cause we really believe in and have fun doing it. We hope you’ll join us!
  • Who can I contact with questions about the event? Elizabeth Hutchinson at Elizabeth@FontanaSports.com

For more events hosted by Fontana Sports and event information visit Fontana Sports Events web-page!

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Winter Clearance - Final Markdowns taken!


We've made our final winter markdowns! We've still got plenty of great products left at exceptional deals, so don't delay! Everything from Snowboards, Downhill Skis, Cross Country Skis, Snowshoes, Outerwear, Footwear, Socks and Accessories are on sale! Buy that piece you've been eying all season before it's long gone!


Wednesday, March 05, 2014

Paddle Fest is this weekend!

 

We are getting excited for Paddle Fest this weekend here at Fontana Sports! We've got all kinds of kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP's) and canoes that will be at special prices this weekend only!

 

They'll also be specials on paddle accessories, the camping department and all socks! This event is not to be missed! Did I mention that our Manufacturer Reps will be on hand to help answer paddling questions? They have a vast amount of knowledge and are happy to help.


We are also excited because we will be hosting a talk with Jessie Conaway called Paddling a Freshwater Stronghold: Gitchi Gumi's Apostle Islands. She is a career Outdoor Educator who graduated from NOLS in 1989, earned a master’s degree in Experiential Education in 2006, and is currently engaged in doctoral research about water stewardship with the Lake Superior Ojibwe. Conaway is certified as a kayak instructor and instructor trainer by the American Canoe Association, and teaches paddle sports throughout the Upper Midwest. The talk will take place on Saturday, March 8th at 1 pm at our westside location. We hope you can join us!

Monday, March 03, 2014

Events & Clinics - March 2014

PADDLING BASICS
Tuesday, March 4th, 2014 at 6:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison, WI
Before you head out on the water, be sure to learn the paddling basics. This class offers you an overview of info on Kayaks & Stand-up Paddleboards. Our expert staff will cover Equipment, Apparel, Trip Planning and Transportation. This class is free.

FONTANA'S 2nd ANNUAL PADDLE FEST
Friday - Sunday, March 7th - 9th, 2014
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Join us for Fontana's Second Annual Paddle Fest! Save up to 20% off kayaks, paddling accessories, and camping equipment. Manufacturer representatives will be available on Saturday and Sunday to answer any paddling related questions you might have.

PADDLING A FRESHWATER STRONGHOLD: GITCHI GUMI'S APOSTLE ISLANDS
Saturday, March 8th, 2014
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Join us as we welcome Jessie Conaway, a career Outdoor Educator. She graduated from NOLS in 1989, earned a master’s degree in Experiential Education in 2006, and is currently engaged in doctoral research about water stewardship with the Lake Superior Ojibwe. Conaway is certified as a kayak instructor and instructor trainer by the American Canoe Association, and teaches paddle sports throughout the Upper Midwest.

FLY FISHING 101
Monday, March 10th, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Fontana Sports’ Fly Fishing Buyer and Certified Fly Fishing Guide, Craig Amacker, will be giving an intro course on how to get started fly fishing in Wisconsin. Get a chance to have all your fly fishing questions answered, receive some great tips and even try your hand at casting a rod. This is a free event.

7th ANNUAL WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL
Wednesday, March 12th, 2014. Doors open at 6:00 pm; Show starts at 7:00 pm
Barrymore Theatre - 2090 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI
It's back! Join River Alliance of Wisconsin for their most popular event of the season sponsored by Fontana Sports! Experience the highs, lows, challenges and triumphs of people's relationship with the environment depicted in this unique line up of films. From stunning scenery to creative animation, this collection of movies is guaranteed to inspire and provoke. See films and event details here: http://www.wisconsinrivers.org/events/wild-and-scenic

CHOOSING & FITTING THE RIGHT BACKPACK
Wednesday, March 19th, 2014 at 6:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison, WI
Join us for an intro course on how to properly choose, fit and pack your backpack in preparation for your next adventure. Come and learn how to get started – no experience necessary! This is a free event.

INTRO TO NORDIC WALKING
Wednesday, March 26th, 2014 at 10:00 am
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Join Judith Hutchinson, trained Leki Instructor, as she shows you how to turn your walk into a total-body workout. Enjoy a nice walk outside while learning about the physical and mental benefits of Nordic walking. Please bring appropriate clothing and shoes for walking. Leki Nordic Walking poles will be provided. Space is limited. Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This is a free event.

8th ANNUAL FLY FISHING RENDEZVOUS
Thursday, March 27th, 2014 at 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
We’ll have the latest greatest in fly fishing gear, factory reps on hand, rod demos, The Rio Gold Distance casting challenge, the Iron Fly Competition, snacks and beverages. We hope you'll join us!

Visit Fontana Sports Events page: http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events

There's Still Time to post a #MyFontanaMoment & WIN!




We've been receiving some awesome #MyFontanaMoment 's from you guys and we love to see them! Keep them coming!! Share them with us and get entered to win a $50 Fontana Sports gift card by posting a picture to your own wall (be sure to set privacy for the picture to 'public') and tag it with #MyFontanaMoment, then tag us with @Fontana Sports Specialties to make sure we see it! The contest is running through March 31, 2014.