Put your show on the calendar. For many areas of the country, there may be more than one show near where you live, and a quick search on the internet will list all your possibilities. One good source for show listings by state is Marine Source, and you can often find smaller regional shows by using the "boat show" search terms and your town or city. The main point is to know when the show is running -- and get it penciled in on the calendar!

Know why you are going. Just kicking the hulls of a few boats that you can't afford is always fun, but you don't want to end up kicking yourself because you forgot to ask experts at the show about improvements to your current rig. Take yourself back to the boating season of 2016 and ask: What would have make the experience better? Did I need more horsepower? Do I seem to be having a problem with the propeller or stabilizers? Should I consider a jet versus prop drive? You can pick up a map at the entrance of the exhibit hall to plan your route and get the necessary stuff done first, then do some window shopping.

Do some checking online before you go. With today's internet, you may be able to take a virtual trip on the exhibition floor before the event by downloading the floor plan and accessing the websites of exhibitors that interest you. You also may be able to download a coupon that discounts the admission price, and don't forget the features and attractions at a show that can help break up the day.

Keep notes. With all the price points, product features and vendors that exhibit at a boat show, it's easy to become confused if you don't keep good notes -- especially if you are negotiating a special boat show deal. If you are a little more tech savvy, you can keep the information on a tablet or smart phone, but there's nothing like a pen and notebook or legal pad to keep things straight. Don't forget to keep any advertisements or fliers that state rebates, special prices or incentives because they help to remind you and the dealer as to the details of a deal.

Consider what will happen after a purchase. So after you've got price comparisons nailed down, don't forget to ask about how warranties are handled (through dealer or directly with the manufacturer), whether extended warranties are available and any other services that the dealer may offer. It may be worthwhile to spend a little more upfront if it means you can get solid gold service on the backend -- which is critical to keeping your boat in the water rather than sitting idle at the shop.