EDGEFIELD, S.C. — A small gathering in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 1977 catalyzed what has become one of the largest hunting- and conservation-focused consumer shows in the country. The NWTF Convention and Sport Show celebrated its milestone 50th event in record-setting fashion. The gathering honored decades of conservation, tradition and community, drawing 94,426 attendees and setting an all-time attendance record.
“Our 50th Convention and Sport Show was a monumental success, and we don’t take second of it for granted,” NWTF co-CEO Jason Burckhalter said. “It is not lost on us that the energy, enthusiasm and support we witnessed are a direct reflection of the people who believe in and drive our mission. This record-setting event belongs to all who revere the wild turkey and our hunting heritage and work tirelessly to ensure both exist for future generations.”
From turkey calls reverberating through packed hallways to standing-room-only seminars, the event felt less like a trade show and more like a reunion spanning generations. Hunters, conservationists, volunteers, exhibitors and families from across the country gathered in Nashville to celebrate a shared passion for the wild turkey and the landscapes that sustain it, whether it was at the various award recognition events honoring partners and volunteers, the state agency conservation meetings furthering wild turkey conservation across the country, or at the turkey hunting and science seminars engaging attendees with both captivating stories and knowledge.
Attendance at the NWTF Convention and Sport Show has steadily climbed in recent years, with new attendance records set each year since 2023. The 50th Convention and Sport Show continued that momentum, underscoring the strength of the NWTF community and the relevance of the organization’s efforts as it embarks on the future of delivering its mission: the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage.
Throughout the week, attendees took part in a full slate of conservation and hunting seminars, hands-on educational opportunities, live auctions, music performances and competitive events, among more. The show floor featured about 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest in hunting gear, apparel and outdoor innovation, while cornerstone attractions such as the Grand National Calling Championships, Grand National Custom Callmaking Competition and Grand National Taxidermy Competition highlighted the artistry and tradition at the heart of turkey hunting culture.
“Reaching this milestone is a powerful reminder of what we have accomplished and what we are poised to accomplish as we move forward,” NWTF co-CEO Kurt Dyroff said. “Connecting people to our mission — whether through education, competition, conservation or camaraderie — is what drives our annual Convention and Sport Show. Seeing that mission resonate with so many people across so many backgrounds at this scale is both humbling and inspiring as we push to new heights.”
As the ceremonious kickoff to spring turkey season, the NWTF Convention and Sport Show is a defining moment on the calendar for sportsmen and women passionate about our natural resources, uniting people through conservation, shared stewardship and the life-changing power of the outdoors.
Planning is already underway for the 51st NWTF Convention and Sport Show, which is returning to Nashville in 2027.
Relive the sights and moments from the 50th NWTF Convention and Sport Show by exploring the full photo gallery.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 25 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. Since 2022, the NWTF has also invested over $2.3 million in critical wild turkey research that, when leveraged with partner contributions, has resulted in more than $22 million to guide the management of the wild turkey and to ensure sustainable populations. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale to create healthy forests and wildlife habitats, clean and abundant water, resilient communities and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF is committed to creating a nation united by the life-changing power of the outdoors.
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