by Karen Mehall Phillips - Wednesday, January 9, 2019
“I want that elk painting."
"I want that Cape buffalo bronze."
"I want to hunt a whitetail buck like that."
Oh, the thrill of the exhibit hall hunt—and it’s only opening morning of the four-day SCI show here in Reno, Jan. 9-12.
“I love that bighorn sheep mount. I want to book a red deer hunt in Spain or New Zealand. I need that mule-deer antler chandelier. Did you see the chair upholstered in blue wildebeest hide? I want to use the hide from my next big-game animal to upholster an ottoman for my living room.”
I want, I like, I need—all words you hear at an SCI Hunters’ Convention because this is what you see: world-class taxidermy, including entire wildlife scenes; wildlife paintings, prints and sculptures; guides and outfitters offering global hunting and fishing adventures; wildlife-themed collectibles, from wine glasses, vases and dinnerware etched with American and African game to entire front doors featuring carvings of wildlife scenes. Then there is the jewelry designed with elk ivory and elephant hair and, of course, the firearms that makers and engravers are showcasing just in time for your next adventure. Get in on the SCI show action here at the Reno Sparks Convention Center.
With wildlife artists putting their incredible work on display along the Art Walk, come and buy an original painting—or buy the print. With all the outfitters here, go ahead … buy that 18-day Alaskan moose or Dall sheep hunt or buy that pheasant hunt in South Dakota. Spend a little, spend a lot or buy nothing at all—except for a good pair of walking shoes as you mingle your way down the aisles, exploring what’s in store at the 900-plus exhibitor booths as far as you can see. One last tip: Be sure to attend some of the free hunting seminars offered throughout the SCI show to build and hone your outdoor skills.
An estimated 20,000 hunters will hit the 47th SCI Hunters’ Convention in Reno, Jan. 9-12. For more information, visit showsci.org or call 888-746-9724. The sky is the limit when it comes to things to see and do here. Come follow your outdoor dream.