National Hunting and Fishing Days Celebration – Planned Activities

World Renowned Longbow Archer Byron Ferguson will perform two demonstrations on both Saturday and Sunday.   For those who may not be familiar with his skills or see what he has been involved in, visit his website at www.byronferguson.com. 

Coyote Hunting with Tom Bechdel brings his nationally acclaimed seminar on Eastern coyote hunting.  A predator hunter for the last 22 years, Tom’s knowledge and insight will hold the audience captive throughout his seminars. www.tombechdel.com

The West Virginia Bowhunters Association is once again proud to sponsor the Youth Archery Alley where children of all ages will be provided individual instruction in proper archery shooting technique.  Quality universal fit equipment is provided so the only thing required is a desire to learn and have fun.  Parents and Grandparents may also participate along side of the youth making this a fun family affair.  Visit the WVBA Youth Archery Alley behind the main vendor building - directly behind the helicopter display.

Roy Moose is the interpreter/snake handler at the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center. He has a B.S. and M.S. in Biology, and has worked with native poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes for more than a decade. Sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service, Roy works out of the Gauley Ranger District office near Richwood, and has presented to over 150,000 people through his educational outreach program in nearly every county in W.V.  The program is designed to teach about the physiology and habits of native W.V. snakes and dispel many common myths associated with them. Live poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes are used in demonstration, with emphasis on safety and first aid practices. Audience questions and participation are welcome in an informal atmosphere.

Raptors up Close is a nonprofit organization designed to educate and teach conservation with live birds of prey and will attend on Saturday, September 26th. Come and experience the excitement and beauty of this wonderful demonstration.  www.raptorsupclose.com

Master Catters2 will hold the WV state championship catfish tournament to benefit the Hope for the Warriors Organization on Saturday night with weigh in on Sunday morning between 9 and 10 AM. To learn more about this worthy cause, please visit their site at http://www.MasterCatters2.com and to obtain information on Master Catters2 and details for the event contact Jim Pauley, 304/358-2371 or email him at FlatheadsRus@copper.net.

West Virginia Big Buck Display One of the most popular displays at the event.  Up to 30 legally harvested West Virginia bucks will be displayed.  For information on how to participate in this event, go to:  www.wvdnr.gov/hunting/wvbigbucks.shtm.

West Virginia Trophy Fish Display This will be the third year for this popular display.  For information on participation, go to: www.wvdnr.gov/hunting/nhfd_Trophy_Fish.shtm.

Smokey McNicholas founder and owner of Smokey’s Deer Lure’s will be conducting a seminar on coyote calling and snaring tips on trapping as well as hunting whitetail deer.  Smokey and trophy hunter Jim Riggle, recorder holder of the Pennsylvania Tionesta Giant will also be on hand. smokeysdeerlure.com