Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Scout Week - Wrap-up

Scout week 2015 is in the books.  We had some amazing speakers tech groups about how to get started backpacking and some more advanced ultralight techniques.  We sampled some awesome camp food, and learned about how to leave no trace in the wilderness.  Thanks to all who attended!




Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Fly Fishing Rendezvous is next week already!


Join us for our 9th Annual Fly Fishing Rendezvous next week on Thursday, April 2nd from 4 - 8pm! Stop by whenever you can make it as there will be events going on all evening. Our Fly Shop is located at our westside location - 231 Junction Road, Madison. 


Our Simms Reps Tony and Kim Ferrie will be here to answer questions and give advice on all the latest and greatest Simms products. Fly tiers Jim Bartelt, Tom Mulford and Laura Beck-Nielsen will be in the shop tying some flies, answering questions and giving fly tying tips. There will also be great in-store specials that we can't even share online available ONLY during the event! Plus a Bonus Buy Drawing where you get entered to win prizes if you do some fly fishing shopping that evening! The more you spend the more likely you are to win! Receive tickets for the prize drawing based on the amount you spend - $20-$100: 1 ticket, $101-200: 2 tickets, $201-$300: 3 tickets, $301-$400: 4 tickets, $401-$500: 5 tickets & OVER $501: 10 tickets. Each ticket gets you entered to win one of these great prizes - Simms Headwaters Sling Pack, Scientific Anglers Frequency Fly Lines, Scientific Anglers Leaders and more!


Don't miss the RIO Distance Casting Challenge that is going on from 5:30-6:30 either. Try out your cast and see how you compare! Prizes awarded for furthest cast and maybe some prizes for the most accurate cast as well. Did we mention there will be snacks and refreshments? We know our fisherman like their beer and we're on it! We hope you'll join us!

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Wild & Scenic Film Festival benefitting River Alliance of Wisconsin


Wild and Scenic Film Festival
Wednesday, March 25
Films Start at 7:00pm
Barrymore Theatre, Madison

Fontana Sports is once again sponsoring Wild & Scenic Film Festival put on by River Alliance of Wisconsin. Your ticket purchases support this important organization. This is a very inspiring film series that not only addresses environmental concerns, but also social concerns. You won't be sorry you went! Last year we left the event really wanting to make a change for the better in our community, country and worldwide. It's that kind of inspiring!

Festival Details:
Regular tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door; VIP package is $30. Tickets can be purchased at River Alliance, B-Side Records, Frugal Muse, Strictly Discs, Star Liquor, MadCity Music, Sugar Shack and the Barrymore. Charge by phone at (608) 241-8633. Order online at www.barrymorelive.com.


Special VIP Offer: Buy 3, Get 4th Free

A fourth VIP ticket is free with the purchase of three. To take advantage of this offer, purchase at River Alliance, Barrymore or online rather than satellite ticket sales locations.


NEW this year!
Put on your best fleece and walk the Green Carpet. Don't miss the "celebrity" and fashion interviews!

Get creative at our Selfie Station. Channel your inner star, pick from silly props, and have fun with your friends at our version of a social media photo booth.

Enjoy a VIP Pre-Party starting at 5:30pm (instead of a post-party like we've done in previous years). VIP tickets are $30 and include a drink ticket, Roman Candle pizza, and a one-year River Alliance membership.

Get inspired by the youth filmmakers from Wisconsin. These teens created films about mining, climate change, and our lakes and rivers in Dane County.

Check out our website for the full film line-up. We hope that our program and fun additions to the festival will inspire you to help us spread the word. This week, if you Tweet using #WildScenicWI or share this Facebook post you'll automatically be entered to win a pair of tickets.

We hope to see you at the festival! More info.


Friday, March 13, 2015

Paddle Fest this Weekend! SAVE BIG!

Spring is in the air! And boy does it feel GOOD! Paddle Fest is this weekend and  you can save 15% OFF ALL canoes, kayaks, and SUP boards! Paddles, Water Sport Accessories, PFD's and car racks  are 15% off too! Stop by and check out all the new boats that have just arrived. They're beautiful and it's making us anxious to get out on the water! Especially with the warm temps this weekend finally!
New this year we are carrying the brand Doyle for SUP's. Pretty sweet foam or bamboo boards. Great for SUP Yoga! Really fun colors too!
We hope to see you this weekend! The sale will be running through Monday, March 16th. Not quite ready for spring? Well we just did Final Markdowns for our Winter Clearance too!

Scout Week Starts Sunday!

FONTANA SPORTS SCOUTS WEEK

March 15 - 22, 2015


20% OFF ALL NON-SALE PURCHASES

Fontana Sports Scout Week recognizes all Scouts with their Boy Scout or Girl Scout card.


March 1st – 31st - Chance to win great gear!
Purchase raffle tickets at either store during the entire month of March for a chance to win awesome prizes from Klean Kanteen, GSI, Backpackers Pantry, Kelty, Slumberjack, and more. Prizes are valued between $30 and $150! Tickets cost $1 each or $10 for 15. All proceeds go to the Scouts to help send kids to camp.

***

DOWNTOWN LOCATION CLINICS & EVENTS
216 N Henry Street, Madison 53703 • (608) 257-5043

Tues, March 17th at 6:00 pm - Ask the Expert! Fontana staff members are passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced outdoorsmen and women. Do you have a question about what footwear to buy, or how to pick the best tent for you? Curious how to pack a backpack properly or what the differences between all the different stoves are? This clinic will be tailored to the participant’s questions and can cover any of the gear or sports that we carry at Fontana.

Wed, March 18th at 5:30 pm - Leave No Trace Camping and Sustainability Practices - Crystal Neely. Join Fontana Sports camping buyer Crystal Neely for a discussion on ways to reduce your impact on the environment both when you are camping and in your everyday life. Then stay for a great talk on Backpacking Basics!

Wed, March 18th at 6:00 pm - Backpacking Basics/How to Set Up Camp - Shawn Thiele. Kelty and Slumberjack rep Shawn Thiele has years of experience with the best gear and he knows how to use it! If you are curious as to how to get started backpacking, or just need some gear tips this is a great clinic for you. He will talk about how to properly fit and pack a pack as well as showcase some of the innovative new products Kelty has come out with.

Sat, March 21st 3:00 - 5:00 pm - Stove/Cooking Demos. Stop by and check out different types of stove and sample tasty camp food.


WESTSIDE LOCATION CLINICS & EVENTS
231 Junction Road, Madison 53717 • (608) 833-9191

Mon, March 16th at 5:30 pm - Leave No Trace Camping and Sustainability Practices - Crystal Neely. Join Fontana Sports camping buyer Crystal Neely for a discussion on ways to reduce your impact on the environment both when you are camping and in your everyday life. Then stay for a great talk on Ultralight Backpacking!

Mon, March 16th at 6:00 pm - Ultralight Backpacking - Jake Hoffman. Jake Hoffman is only 26 years old but has hiked over 20% of the Earth’s circumference (about 6000 miles) on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Long Trail! Join him as he shares stories and photos of his adventures and tips to lighten your load so you can focus on your beautiful surroundings and not your aching back!

Thurs, March 19th at 6:00 pm - Ask the Expert! Fontana staff members are passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced outdoorsmen and women. Do you have a question about what footwear to buy, or how to pick the best tent for you? Curious how to pack a backpack properly or what the differences between all the different stoves are? This clinic will be tailored to the participant’s questions and can cover any of the gear or sports that we carry at Fontana.

Sun, March 22nd 3:00 - 5:00 pm - Stove/Cooking Demos. Stop by and check out different types of stoves and sample tasty camp food.

***


Other Scout Opportunities:

  • If your Troop is interested in a clinic about a topic we don’t have scheduled, we’d be happy to discuss putting together a clinic for you. Please call Crystal at 608-662-9711.
  • Does your troop need to put together a large order for items such as freeze dried food, tents, or sleeping bags? We want to work with you to give you the best possible deal. Please call Crystal or Jeff at 608.833.9191.


Your troop, Scout individuals and friends/family of Scouts are invited to attend. These clinics are free. If your troop plans to attend please call Crystal (608-662-9711) in advance so we can plan space accordingly.
We hope to see many Boy Scout and Girl Scout attendees this coming week for Fontana Sports Scout Week! Lots going on in the shops in support of the scouts. Even a raffle where money earned goes back to support Scouts! More details on  Fontana Sports Scout Week >>.


Below are some recommendations for Scouts and other beginner and intermediate backpackers. We have plenty of other great options, but we thought this could help narrow it down to make it easier to decide based on price and features.

TENTS BACKPACKS SLEEPING BAGS
B
E
G
I
N
N
E
R
One Person:
Eureka Solitaire - $94.99

TNF Stormbreak - $128.99

Two Person:
Eureka Tetragon 2 - $89.99

TNF Stormbreak 2 - $158.99

Kelty Salida 2 - $169.95
Osprey Volt 60 - $179.99

Osprey Viva 50 - $179.99

For smaller kids:
Deuter Kids Fox Backpack - $108.99

Osprey Ace 38 - $139.99

Osprey Ace 50 - $159.99
Slumberjack Boundary Series $49.95 - $94.95

Mountain Hardwear Bozeman Flame $108.99
I
N
T
E
R
M
E
D
I
A
T
E
One Person:
Eureka Spitfire - $139.99

Two or Three Person: 
Mountain Hardwear Shifter $198.99 or $248.99

Mountain Hardwear Optic 2.5 - $239.99

Mountain Hardwear Optic 3.5 - $284.99

Big Agnes Tumble MTN GLO $249.99 or $299.99
Kelty Trail Logic 50 Pack - $199.99

Osprey Atmos 50 - $209.99

Osprey Aura 50 - $259.99

Mountain Hardwear Ozonic 58 or 65 $259.99 or $269.99
Kelty Cosmic Down Series $139.95 - $199.95

Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed (Down or Synthetic option) $179.95 - $269.95


Thursday, March 05, 2015

Spring is on its way!


The forecast is finally showing the low 50's for next week. We are all thinking spring! Whether it's spring skiing or getting ready for camping season - we can't wait! :) In that honor we wanted to share 10 Tips for Making Rainy Backpacking Better from our friends at Outdoor Research. With spring usually comes rain and we're all about being prepared. This list is spot on.  Check out the 10 Tips! Be sure to let us know where your spring adventures take you!



Monday, March 02, 2015

Events & Clinics - March 2015

FLY FISHING FILM TOUR
Wednesday, March 4th, 2015 at 7:00 pm
Barrymore Theater, Madison, WI
The original and preeminent exhibition of fly fishing cinema, The F3T is a one of a kind experience. Each year fishy folk of all ages gather at premieres to soak up films from around the world, spin a few yarns amongst friends and dream about casts still unmade. If you’ve been, you know what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, we hope to see you soon! For more information about the tour visit: www.flyfilmtour.com.
The tickets can be purchased at both Fontana Sports locations for $14 in advance CASH ONLY, and $16 Day of Show

PADDLING BASICS
Tuesday, March 10th, 2015 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 is a free event.

FLY FISHING 101
Wednesday, March 11th, 2015 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.

FONTANA SPORTS' SCOUT WEEK
March 15th - 22nd, 2015
Westside & Downtown Locations
Fontana Sports Scout Week will recognize all Scouts with their Boy Scout or Girl Scout card by giving them 20% OFF ALL NON-SALE PURCHASES. We will also be offering FREE clinics to Scouts during the week. Your Troop, Scout individuals and friends/parents of Scouts are invited to attend. If your troop plans to attend, please call ahead so we can make space. More info to follow. We hope to see you! MORE INFO

ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING with Jake Hoffman
Monday, March 16th, 2015 at 6:00 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Jake Hoffman is only 26 years old but has hiked over 20% of the Earth’s circumference (about 6000 miles) on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Long Trail! Join him as he shares stories and photos of his adventures and tips to lighten your load so you can focus on your beautiful surroundings and not your aching back!

BACKPACKING BASICS / HOW TO SET UP CAMP with Shawn Thiele
Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 at 6:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison, WI
Kelty and Slumberjack rep Shawn Thiele has years of experience with the best gear and he knows how to use it! If you are curious as to how to get started backpacking, or just need some gear tips this is a great clinic for you. He will talk about how to properly fit and pack a pack as well as showcase some of the innovative new products Kelty has come out with. This is a free event.

INTRO TO NORDIC WALKING
Tuesday, March 24th, 2015 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 WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL
Wednesday, March 25th, 2015 at 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Barrymore Theatre
At Wild & Scenic, film-goers are transformed into a congregation of committed activists, dedicated to saving our increasingly threatened planet. We show environmental and adventure films that illustrate the Earth’s beauty, the challenges facing our planet and the work communities are doing to protect the environment. Through these films, Wild & Scenic both informs people about the state of the world and inspires them to take action. For more info visit: www.wisconsinrivers.org
$12 | $15 day of show
$30 VIP Tickets (Includes membership to the River Alliance, and entry to the exclusive pre-party at 5:30pm with one free drink ticket and food).

Visit FONTANA SPORTS EVENTS PAGE for additional events information.