Everett Headley 11.20.24
Safari Club International Convention
The “Super Bowl of Hunting Shows” says it all. Since the move to Nashville a few years ago this has been the show to attend. A-list celebrities routinely show up just to see it for themselves. World-class taxidermy showcases are found throughout the show floor, but the entry center-piece is a work of art and changes each year. Art, jewelry, clothing can all be found in luxurious and rustic styles. Free seminars are given by established industry professionals ready to set you up for success on that next safari. Shows are headlined by music superstars and cocktail parties quickly fill up night schedules.
For those looking to expand their hunting beyond this continent, there is no better place to meet outfitters from France, Spain, Africa, Australia, Asia or anywhere else where there is hunting. Being able to meet these outfitters in person is invaluable and worth the investment as you plan an international trip. You will also discover opportunities you likely did not even know existed, giving you something else to add to your list. This is truly the premier show for any hunter.
The SCI Convention is Jan 22-25 at the Music City Center.
While Salt Lake City, Utah might not be on your top ten travel destinations, its international airport makes it easy to get to from across the country. Once here you’ll discover this is the meeting of western history and modern comfort. Mountain men like Jim Bridger were here long before the Jazz put down a court. Antelope Island is home to some of the biggest mule deer you can find.
Major reasons to attend include Sheep Camp and the “200 Permits,” both requiring you to be in person to win once in a lifetime hunts. Sheep camp undoubtedly has some of the best draw odds you will ever find for every species of North American sheep, all for the entry price of $150. The excitement at this event hosted by the famous auctioneer John Bair and the other scattered games make this the can’t miss event. The “200 Permits” are just $5 per application and you must validate your application in person. Add this to the huge variety of brands, outfitters, and fellow hunting enthusiasts and you’ll be glad you went.
The Expo will be hosted by the Salt Palace February 13-16, 2025.
Heading into its second year the Mile High Expo brings gear, guides, and hunting together in Denver. This year’s show will be bigger with more floor space added. You definitely will not want to miss the banquet on Saturday night with several hunts being auctioned along with great entertainment. It’s worth the admission if you can get a ticket. Two stages offer seminars and Q&A sessions all day on everything from getting started hunting Africa, becoming a wildlife advocate, and entering the art of falconry.
Denver offers a major hub for just about anyone in the country to easily fly in. While here check out the numerous western history museums and the iconic Casa Bonita. But make sure you get your reservations well in advance. After the show you can find boutique restaurants and lively entertainment in several districts.
The Mile High Expo is at the Gaylord Rockies Resort April 11-13, 2025.
For over forty years the place for whitetail fanatics to gather has been in Raleigh, North Carolina at the Dixie Deer Classic. Billed as family friendly, it doesn’t disappoint with its wide range of activities. Turkey calling competitions are adjacent to chili cookoffs and bird of prey demonstrations. Hunting Celebrities including Ted Nugent, Jim Shockey, and Michael Waddel make frequent appearances.
Hosted by the Wake County Wildlife Club this event started out as a small, local gathering. Since then it has grown to sprawl across four buildings with hundreds of exhibitors. When you exit the Classic make sure you find yourself some Carolina BBQ-the good kind with vinegar sauce. Then head to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for some of the best natural history display on the east coast.
The Dixie Deer Classic will be held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds February 28th – March 2, 2025.
Wild Sheep Foundation Convention
Better known as “Sheep Show” the Wild Sheep Foundation’s annual event is the place for anyone thinking about hunting sheep. Without question the number one reason to go are the drawings that require winners to be in person. It seems every year there are stories of hunters being drawn only to miss the fifteen minute window to collect. If you register for the full show you automatically are entered to win a Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Hunt. You’ll find other hunts with better odds than regular state agency hunts. Make sure you hit up the Culinary Corner and check the schedule of those who might be preparing something incredible.
The atmosphere at Sheep Show is electric and the evening banquets sell out fast. The Youth Wildlife Conservation Experience offers young sportsmen the opportunity to try out a variety of outdoor activities. And if you’re feeling spry, you’ll need to check the Backpack Races and Horse Packing Competition. If you’ve never harvested a North American sheep, you’ll want to join the <1 Club and see if you have the fortune to change it.
Sheep Show is held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center Jan 16-18, 2025.
