Sportsman Show Circuit

Open Season Sportsman’s Expo Ohio

On the Show Circuit: Where to Find George Lake This Year

Each winter, before bear season opens, Rob and the George Lake team hit the road for a handful of the country’s biggest hunting and fishing shows — the same shows serious hunters already use to plan next year’s trip. If you’d rather talk through a hunt face-to-face than over email, here’s where to catch us.

NWTF Convention & Sport Show — Nashville, TN

February 11–13, 2027 — The National Wild Turkey Federation’s flagship event draws hundreds of exhibitors and tens of thousands of attendees. It’s not just turkey hunting — big game and fishing outfitters, including George Lake, exhibit alongside the turkey-specific programming.

Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show — Indianapolis, IN

One of the Midwest’s largest outdoor shows, with a dedicated Travel & Tourism Pavilion where attendees talk directly to lodge and camp owners rather than a travel agent. A strong fit for face-to-face conversations about George Lake.

Columbus Outdoor Show — Columbus, OH

A regional Midwest show that draws hunters and anglers from across Ohio, Kentucky, and neighboring states — a strong overlap with George Lake’s existing client base.

NRA Annual Meeting — 

One of the largest firearms and outdoor gatherings in the country, drawing well over 50,000 attendees. A broad, high-volume touchpoint rather than a hunting-specific show.

Why We Still Do Shows in Person

Anyone can put a harvest rate on a website. Showing up in person and standing behind it — answering questions about our 40–50% record-book bear harvest rate, walking someone through what 3.5 million acres of licensed territory actually means, face to face — is a different kind of trust than a booking form can build. It’s also just the most direct way to talk to Rob himself instead of a call center.

Planning to be at one of these shows? Contact us ahead of time and we’ll set aside time to talk through dates. 

FAQ 

Can I book a trip in person at one of these shows?

Yes — our team can talk through dates and availability on the spot, with the booking confirmed the same way as any other reservation.

Do I need a ticket to the show to talk to George Lake Outfitting?

Generally yes, standard show admission applies. Check each show’s website for ticket details.

Which show is best for a first-time bear hunter to ask questions?

Any of the four work, but the Indianapolis show’s Travel & Tourism Pavilion is built specifically for these lodge-to-hunter conversations.