OAK HARBOR — The public is invited to attend the Maumee Bay Carvers Association 42nd annual Decoy Show and Swap & Sell Meet, Aug. 10, at the Magee Marsh Visitor Center, 13299 West Ohio 2.
This free family-friendly event is a great opportunity to view beautifully carved decoys and shorebirds made by hand in the tradition of the American hunting style decoy. Last year in 2023, carvers from Michigan, Indiana and Ohio entered over 50 decoys.
Carvers of all skill levels are encouraged to compete by entering their working decoys and shorebirds which will be judged and awarded cash prizes and medallions. Entries in three of the contests, Lake Erie Singles, Pairs, and IWCA style Working Class are floated in a water-filled tank. The working shorebirds are stick-mounted on a base. There is a small entry fee for the competition.
Registration for carvers begins at 9 a.m. and judging follows registration.
A Sell & Swap meet will also be held. Bring hunting items, decoys, carving items, wood supplies, etc., to sell or trade. There is no cost and bring your own tables.
Admission to the show is free, and the newly renovated Magee Marsh Sportsmen’s Migratory Bird Center will also be open. The museum features decoys on display made by Ohio renown carvers including “Buckeye” Joe Wooster. The collection is considered to be one of the most comprehensive displays representing Ohio decoy carvers.
Visit www.maumeebaycarvers.com for the rules and awards.
Over 40 years ago, the Maumee Bay Carvers Association was organized with the purpose to promote, preserve and mentor the art form and tradition of carving and painting waterfowl. Whether a beginner or advanced carver, visitors are invited to attend a free Wednesday carve-along sessions held at the Waterville Public Library, 800 Michigan Ave., from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
