Airguns: The New Rage
12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Location: 201A
Learn About Wildly Popular Airguns
Airguns have become wildly popular in the last few years and for good reason. They have less recoil, are quieter, and you can hunt around livestock with them and in suburbia situations. (And they are a great gateway to get your kids/grandkids into shooting/hunting). But make no mistake, the modern airgun is not little Ralphie’s Red Ryder-they are real guns capable of killing large game since they are now available in calibers up to a .50 cal. Come to this seminar and I will catch you up-to-date on which ones to use. SCI even now has an Airgun Record Book.
Poach & Pay Project – Research Results on Poaching in the U.S.
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: 201B
Domestic Wildlife Poaching Study Results
The Boone and Crockett Club recently released the results of five years of research providing the most comprehensive review of domestic wildlife poaching in U.S. history. Wildlife crimes, such as illegal take and other breaches of hunting, fishing, and trapping regulations, can significantly harm wildlife populations, diminish the hunting experience, and affect social acceptance among both hunters and non-hunters. The Poach and Pay research determined the detection rate of poaching crimes and the conservation impacts and financial losses from the illegal take of big game in the country. The results are significant and strongly show that poaching is not a victimless crime. The research also identifies the typologies and motivations for poaching and potential deterrents through detailed surveys of stakeholders (landowners, hunters, conservation law enforcement, and prosecutors) and the use of criminology theory.
SCI financially supported this research. The seminar will present the results to SCI members.
From the Brink: Louisiana’s Black Bear Recovery Film
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: 202A
This is a 30 minute video documenting the remarkable recovery success story of the Louisiana Black Bear. From a federally listed subspecies to a coveted game animal, we tell the story of what true success means and how hunters and private landowners made it happen!
Unlocking Wealth Through Oil: Tax Advantages and Investment Strategies for Maximum Returns
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location: 201A
Discover the unique advantages of direct investment in private oil drilling projects.
Discover the unique advantages of direct investment in private oil drilling projects. With today’s strong oil prices and the potential for exceptional profits, investors have an unprecedented opportunity to build wealth while benefiting from significant tax advantages. Vertical Petroleum Industries (VPI) will guide you through selecting the right project, understanding the 100% tax write-off available on initial investments, and exploring how strategic diversification can help reduce risk and enhance returns. Join us to learn how VPI’s proven approach has driven success for both the company and its investors.
Hunting and Tourism in Spain
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: 201B
With 12 animals on license and with over 50 UNESCO sites, Spain is a Mecca for both hunters and tourists. We will explore the opportunities available for both.
State Wildlife Director’s Forum
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: 202BC
Come and meet the State Wildlife Directors and ask your questions about wildlife management in their states. The event will be a question-and-answer panel led by SCI staff with time for the audience to engage with the directors and ask questions as well.
Hornady Presents: Intro to Long Range
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: 202A
Learn the fundamentals of long-range shooting from Hornady’s ballistics experts. This seminar introduces bullet selection, trajectory, wind calls, and proper zeroing to help hunters and precision shooters build a solid foundation for success at extended distances.
North Americas Greatest Deer Hunts
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: 201B
Unlock the Secrets of North America’s Greatest Deer Hunts!
Back by popular demand, this seminar dives deep into the pursuit of trophy Mule Deer, Coues Deer, and Whitetails across the vast and varied landscapes of North America. From the cactus flats of Sonora to the high-country basins of the Rockies, outfitter and seasoned hunter Cody Rhees shares entertaining real-world strategies, insider access, and the kind of gritty, boots-on-the-ground experience that can’t be Googled. Whether you’re planning your first deer hunt or chasing your next 200-incher, come discover what separates the average hunter from the elite—and why this seminar filled the room last year. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your passion for deer hunting—this is where stories are told, legends are built, and next season’s success begins.
Hunting the Dangerous Seven
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: 202BC
Hunt Africa’s Big Nasties
Cape buffalo, leopard, lion, elephant, rhino…plus hippo and Nile crocodile. Why, where, when, and how to hunt Africa’s Big Nasties. Countries open, hunting methods, guns and loads. Is it possible to cut costs? Is the Dangerous Seven a reasonable goal today?
Silencer Central Presents: Navigating Suppressor Laws & Regulations for Hunters
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Location: 201A
Mastering Legal Suppressor Ownership, Travel, and Compliance
This seminar provides hunters with essential guidance on the legal landscape surrounding firearm suppressors, including federal and state regulations, best practices for domestic and international travel, and practical tips for compliance. Attendees will learn how to safely and legally transport suppressors by vehicle and air, navigate international restrictions, and prepare documentation to avoid legal complications.
PHASA Foundation: Catspotter
12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Location: 201A
PHASA Foundation and SCIF Launch CATSPOTTER Citizen Science Project
CATSPOTTER is an innovative citizen science initiative that mobilizes community participation to monitor and conserve wild cat populations and their habitats. This project highlights the growing role of citizen science in generating valuable data that informs and shapes policy decisions at various government levels. By engaging citizens as active contributors to ecological data collection and monitoring, CATSPOTTER bridges the gap between scientific research and policy making. The project fosters collaboration among communities, scientists, and government bodies, ensuring that the insights gained from grassroots involvement translate into evidence-based policies for wildlife conservation.
The PHASA Foundation has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF), under which we launched a monumental national leopard survey started in September 2025. This partnership reflects PHASA Foundation’s commitment to conservation through collaboration with SCIF, leveraging shared expertise and resources to conduct important wildlife research such as the leopard survey. The partnership also helps in advancing evidence-based conservation strategies and policy influence through research and community engagement.
Cook with “The Hunter Chef”
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: 202BC
Learn how to make Bear Ragu with Smoked Cheddar polenta from Michael Hunter’s New Book “Hunter Chef in the Wild”!
USDA Approved Establishment Program
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: 201A
Overview, What’s New, and What Not to Do for Importing Hunting Trophies
U.S. Department of Agriculture staff will talk about USDA regulations governing hunting trophies, and the Approved Establishment program. That program sends certain trophies to approved taxidermists for treatment before they can go to the hunter. This seminar will explain the program, both for taxidermist participants and the end user, with tips for hunters and taxidermists both.
Writers’ Camp: Start Sharing Your Outdoor Adventures with the World
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: 202A
Ready to be an Outdoor Writer?
It’s not difficult, but there are obstacles.
Craig Boddington and Safari Magazine Managing Editor John Geiger talk about getting published in books, websites and magazines.
You’ll learn:
- Options to get published in this changing world of digital and print content.
- How to know what medium is right for you.
- Obstacles you’ll encounter and how to push through them to succeed.
As a hunter, you’ve already got the material in your head and in the Photos app on your phone. As an SCI member, you already have a distinct advantage: Safari Magazine, Chapter publications and websites give writers and photographers exposure to content-consuming members around the world.
Take the first step. Attend this seminar. See you there!
Where Does Consistency Come From?
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: 201B
Shooting System Base on Neuroscience
All shotgunners, whether they chase clays or game birds, want to become more consistent in the field or at the range. The OSP shooting system is a simplified method that can be structured for the shooter and is based on break through neuroscience.
Q&A with Jim Shockey
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Location: 202BD
Exclusive Q&A Session
Join us for an exclusive Q&A session with hunting legend and SCI Brand Ambassador Jim Shockey. Hear firsthand stories from his incredible adventures across the globe. This is your chance to ask questions, gain expert perspective, and connect with one of the most respected figures in the outdoor world. Don’t miss this inspiring and interactive seminar with a true icon of the sport
Protecting What You Hunt: Specialized Insurance for Firearms & Trophy Collections
10:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
Location: 202A
Why Homeowners Policies Fall Short and How to Fully Protect Your Collection
Gun & Trophy Insurance protects over 7,000 individuals nationwide and more than $600 million in firearm and trophy collections. As the only program that ensures trophy collections not just for taxidermy value, but for the true cost of the hunt, they are uniquely positioned to understand the risks collectors face. This seminar will highlight what coverages may—and may not—be included under a standard homeowner’s policy or specialty rider, the common pitfalls of insuring through homeowners insurance, and the advantages of specialized coverage. We’ll also explore real-world claims examples, cost and policy considerations, and practical strategies to ensure your firearms and once-in-a-lifetime trophies are fully protected
