One of the premier events of the year in Yorkton is set to go this weekend at the Gallagher Centre.
Since its launch in 2012 the Parkland Outdoor Show and Expo has gained growing recognition, and Dean Schill said that trend is only helping make the show bigger and better each year.
"The first year it was a bit of a struggle getting exhibitors. The second year was better. This year people are coming to us," he said.
As a result of the growing popularity Schill said the event has sold out in terms of exhibitors.
So why is the Outdoor Show so popular.
"It's filling a void in the marketplace. There was a place for a hunting and fishing show in this corner of Western Canada," he said.
Schill said recognizing the interest in a hunting and fishing show, event organizers have focused on keeping the show focused on that niche.
"We're making sure it's not a flea market. That it's not a boat show. That it's not an RV show," he said.
What the Expo is is "Western Canada's largest hunting and fishing show," added Schill.
Schill said they have made it the biggest show by bringing in high profile speakers, including personalities from some of the top hunting and fishing shows on television.
Speakers at this year's event include; Les Johnson with Predator Quest, Cody and Kelsy Robbins with Live 2 Hunt and Paul Beasley with Canada in the Rough.
Shed hunters also have an event at the Parkland Outdoor Show & Expo with its annual shed contest.
"The enjoyment of shed hunting is spreading like wildfire in our province. We will be featuring and displaying some great whitetail sheds to make an impressive shed display for all show attendants to see. This is a shed contest for any shed hunter that has found a antler or antlers they want scored and entered in the contest," details the Expo website (www.parklandoutdoorshow.com).
And that has meant both exhibitors and patrons from across the west, and even into Ontario and the United States wanting to be involved.
New this year is a VIP Night Friday, which will highlight the Hunting Film Tour. The Hunting Film Tour hits the road with some of the coolest films and best cinematography the industry has ever witnessed, suggested the Expo website.
Tickets for Friday night are available at the door.
Regular Expo hours are 9-to-5 both Saturday and Sunday.
