I went for many years with my father when it was held at the New York Coliseum by Columbus Circle. I think I have gone once or twice since it switched to the Javit's Center. The show also was much longer, at least 10 days I am pretty sure. They also had a media or press day before it opened to the public where you paid more for admission, but the place was deserted and you got to board every boat you wanted, with no big lines to wait on. You were also treated like a big shot because you were there on media day. LOL
Tight Lines,
Bob G