Why This Event Matters to Hunters and Outfitters
Every February, the outdoor industry comes together in one place — the NRA Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. If you’ve never attended, it’s hard to fully understand the scale of it. This isn’t just another sportsman’s show. It’s the largest outdoor show in the country, drawing hunters, anglers, and outdoor families from all over the United States.
This year, Nanticoke Outfitters attended the show for the 5th consecutive year as the hunting arm of our operation, connecting directly with hunters interested in high-quality, professionally guided hunting experiences in Maryland.
Why Nanticoke Outfitters Attends the NRA Great American Outdoor Show
After decades in the outdoor industry, one thing remains true: relationships still matter.
At Nanticoke Outfitters, we guide hunters who value ethical practices, well-managed properties, and honest expectations. The Great American Outdoor Show gives us the opportunity to sit down face-to-face with hunters and explain exactly how we operate.
At the show, we:
- Answer detailed questions about our guided hunting trips
- Explain property management and hunt structure
- Help hunters choose the right hunt for their goals
- Reconnect with past clients who stop by year after year
No website or booking platform replaces a real conversation — and that’s why this show continues to be so important to us.
Booking Guided Hunts at The NRA Great American Outdoor Show
Show
One of the biggest advantages of the NRA Great American Outdoor Show is the ability to book guided hunts directly with the outfitter.
When hunters stop by our booth, they’re talking directly with me or one of our guides — not a sales rep. That allows us to discuss:
- Seasons and availability
- Property access and hunt expectations
- Skill level and experience
- Proper planning for a successful hunt
Many of our prime hunting dates are reserved right at the show. Hunters appreciate knowing exactly who they’ll be hunting with and how the experience is structured.
Learn more about our guided hunting opportunities here:
Nanticoke Outfitters – Guided Hunting Trips
What Hunters Can Expect at the Nanticoke Outfitters Booth at The NRA Great American Outdoor Show
When you visit our booth at the Great American Outdoor Show, you won’t find pressure or gimmicks. What you will find is honest conversation.
We share:
- Real photos and videos from our hunts
- Details about how our properties are managed
- Clear expectations for success
- Advice for hunters of all experience levels
We welcome first-time hunters, seasoned outdoorsmen, and families looking to introduce the next generation to ethical hunting.
Trends We’re Seeing from Today’s Hunters
One of the most valuable aspects of attending the show is hearing directly from hunters about what they’re looking for.
Some of the biggest trends we’re seeing include:
- A strong interest in ethically managed hunts
- Proof of a quality management program that enhances the hunting experience
- Hunters prioritizing quality experiences over quantity
- Increased focus on quality stands and properties
- Families looking for safe, guided introductions to hunting
These conversations reinforce why we operate the way we do — with a long-term view toward conservation, property management, and responsible hunting.
Why Outdoor Shows Still Matter in a Digital World
In a world where everything can be booked online, outdoor shows still serve an important role.
They allow hunters to:
- Build trust before booking
- Ask detailed questions
- Gain confidence in an outfitter
- Learn directly from experienced guides
For many hunters, especially those traveling from out of state, that in-person conversation makes all the difference.
A Full-Service Outdoor Brand
While we attended the NRA Great American Outdoor Show as the hunting arm of Nanticoke Outfitters, many visitors were also interested in our Ocean City charter fishing operation.
For families and anglers visiting Maryland’s Ocean City for summer vacation, we also offer family-friendly fishing trips out of Ocean City.
Learn more about our fishing charters here:
Nanticoke Outfitters Charter Fishing – Ocean City, MD
The Best Part of the Show: The People
Every year, the best moments aren’t about bookings — they’re about people.
We meet returning clients who stop by to share stories, new hunters planning their first guided hunt, and families excited to experience the outdoors together. Those conversations are what keep us coming back year after year.
Final Thoughts About The NRA Great American Outdoor Show
The NRA Great American Outdoor Show continues to be one of the best places in the country for hunters to learn, plan, and connect with outfitters they can trust.
If you stopped by our booth — thank you. If you couldn’t make it this year, we’d still love to talk.
Come See Us Next Week
This next weekend you can come see us at The Empire State Outdoor Sportsmen’s Show at Rockland Community College (145 College Rd, Suffern, NY). This is a major tri-state event featuring hunting, fishing, boats, archery, and seminars. The 2026 show runs Feb 20–22, 2026. Stop by to share hunting stories, check out our successful hunts from this past season, and maybe book your next adventure with us!
* Explore our guided hunting opportunities:
https://www.nanticokeoutfitters.com
*Learn more about our Ocean City fishing charters:
https://www.ocmdfishing.com
Stay focused, committed, and shoot straight,
Captain David Fletcher
Nanticoke Outfitters
