Learn a skill at the Wildlife Expo

Outdoorsmen find satisfaction in do-it-yourself-projects, and at the Oklahoma Wildlife Expo Sept. 25-26, visitors can try their hand at making their own birdhouses or even learn how to cook a camp setting meal in a Dutch oven, tie their own fly fishing lure, or gain an understanding of how to attract wildlife to their property.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation is partnering with a wide range of other state agencies, private individuals and outdoor-related companies to host the Wildlife Expo. Held at the Lazy E Arena, just north of Oklahoma City, the event is designed to promote and instill appreciation for Oklahoma’s wildlife and natural resources and provide hands-on learning opportunities for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. The event is free and open to the public.
Activities range from shotgun and archery shooting to fishing, kayaking, ATV riding, mountain biking and much more. Additionally, numerous learning opportunities are available at booths and exhibits at the Expo. Visitors can speak with wildlife biologists and outdoorsmen experienced in fishing, hunting, game calling, wildlife and fisheries management, reptiles and amphibians and more, as well as attend seminars on hunting dog training, wild game cooking and basic firearm safety, among other topics. And for Expo visitors who like to shop, a large area called the Outdoor Marketplace is set aside at the Expo for vendors who will be on hand showcasing and offering for sale their outdoor merchandise and services.
“In short, the Expo is a celebration of everything outdoors in the state of Oklahoma,” said Rhonda Hurst, Expo coordinator for the Wildlife Department. “We want you to leave the Expo with a new appreciation for wildlife and the hobbies of hunting, fishing and wildlife watching.”
The Expo is Oklahoma’s largest outdoor recreation event, drawing tens of thousands of people each year. The Expo will be held at the Lazy E Arena, just north of Oklahoma City. Expo hours will be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Sept. 25-26. Admission and parking are free.