2025 Advocacy Events at SCI Convention

SCI celebrated our annual Hunters’ Convention in Nashville, Tennessee from January 22 to 25, marking our 53rd year. The Convention supports our mission to defend the freedom to hunt and promote wildlife conservation worldwide. We extend a sincere thank you to all members, exhibitors, and donors for making this possible. We also thank the dignitaries and legislators who champion hunting and conservation issues around the world. This year marked true dedication to hunting advocacy, as showcased in these events throughout the week:

Ribbon Cutting: The official opening of the show floor on Wednesday morning was led by SCI leaders and Tennessee Wildlife Director Jason Maxedon. We are proud to call Director Maxedon a champion for hunters’ rights and thank him for his support for our annual Convention. 

Europe Committee: After the board meeting on Thursday, the Europe Committee members gathered for a reception. An invitation was extended to the SCI Board and advocacy invitees. CIC President Harmer addressed the participants regarding future ways to engage more with SCI. Guests also included a member of the European Parliament and a member of the Slovenian Parliament. Finally, the Danish chapter presented their program “Kids in Nature.”

Legal Advocacy: Safari Club International Hosts Two Successful Legal Education Programs in Nashville:

SCI celebrates another successful year of hosting legal education programs at the annual Convention. This year, SCI presented two separate programs, updating more than 80 attorneys and guests from around the country on hot issues in wildlife law and firearms law.

In partnership with the Nashville Bar Association, SCI hosted its 17th Continuing Legal Education program on Current Issues in Wildlife and Hunting Law. The annual CLE provides a unique opportunity for attorneys to fulfill continuing legal education requirements with a program that focuses on the law surrounding sustainable use of wildlife. Topics this year included Marine Mammal Protection Act permitting, predictions for wildlife issues facing the new Trump Administration, and legal challenges to predator control and hunting. The course also offered an ethics hour about the use of AI. About 40 attorneys tuned in online and in-person to engage in conversation on these topics.

As the second program of the week, SCI and the Second Amendment Foundation co-hosted the first Firearms Law CLE, providing two credit hours about the Second Amendment. Presenters from the Second Amendment Foundation, Sportsmen’s Alliance, and the law firm of Snell & Wilmer discussed the use of state law to limit the freedom of speech of firearms manufacturers and sellers; the Supreme Court’s treatment of Second Amendment issues; and the Second Amendment rights of 18- to 20-year-olds. More than 45 attorneys and guests participated.

California Coalition Meeting: On Friday, January 24, the coalition of California Chapters met to discuss issues pertinent to legislative and administrative efforts within the state. California Fish and Game Commissioner Darius Anderson, also the Chapter President of the SCI Wine Country Chapter, attended to discuss ways to engage in sportsmen and women in participating in state wildlife Commission.

Government Affairs Committee Meeting: On Friday, January 24, the Government Affairs Committee (GAC) met, with participants including GAC members, SCI staff, industry partners, and five state and provincial wildlife directors as well as Canadian MP and former SCI International Legislator of the Year award recipient Blaine Calkins. The GAC drives SCI advocacy, discussing key accomplishments and strategies for past, present, and future legislation concerning our hunting rights and responsibilities. Staff also rolled out and explained the SCI Priorities for the Trump Administration to support and advance hunting and sustainable-use conservation.

Hunter Action Fund Luncheon: The Hunter Action Fund (HAF) is SCI’s super PAC and the only super PAC in the country wholly dedicated to supporting congressional champions for hunting and activating pro-hunting voters. This year’s luncheon and auction, HAF’s annual fundraiser, raised significant funding to protect the freedom to hunt. It was hosted at Martins Bar-B-Que, a new venue for the event, and included live music from country music star Chase Rice. And for the first time, SCI auctioned an additional item in the Friday evening auction for HAF, placing HAF fundraising before a larger crowd. SCI’s advocacy team thanks all of the donors and sponsors for their support.

State Wildlife Agencies Directors’ Forum: On Friday afternoon, SCI hosted a State Wildlife Agency Director’s Forum. The forum’s main focus was on elections and transitioning to a new federal administration. Seven state and provincial wildlife directors and assistant directors, covering the continent from Alaska to Alabama, attended the forum in front of a packed room that was moderated by Chris Tymeson, SCI’s Deputy Director of Advocacy. The directors answered questions related to possible federal congressional and administration changes and the impacts on hunters and hunting. The directors also identified areas where hunters can assist their agencies, and concerns moving into the future. SCI thanks the state and provincial directors and assistant directors from Alabama, Alaska, Alberta, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, and Virginia for participating in the forum. Also in attendance was Congressman Troy Downing (R-MT 02).

 

CSF Reception: SCI thanks the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation for once again hosting a reception at Convention and for their longstanding partnership in protecting hunters’ rights. 

SCI-PAC: On Friday, SCI hosted a reception to celebrate the success and ongoing work of SCI-PAC, the largest sportsmen-led political action committee in America. Joined by a group of federal legislators, attendees heard about the work of SCI-PAC from SCI Federal Liaison Nick Uberti, and the importance of political involvement directly from our champions in Congress. SCI thanks Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT 02), John Rose (R-TN 06), and Nick Begich (R-AK) for their remarks at the reception.

Friday Awards Night: Zoltán Kovács, Hungary’s state secretary for international communications and relations at the Prime Minister’s Office, received SCI’s International Legislator of the Year award. Kovács paid tribute to Hungarian professionals, foresters, hunters and nature conservationists who ensure that “Hungary remains a stronghold of common-sense nature conservation and the preservation of traditional hunting values in Europe.” In addition, SCI’s entire Advocacy Team was presented with the President’s Award for their outstanding efforts this past year.

Alaska Meeting: On Saturday morning, SCI members and exhibitors from Alaska gathered to discuss key issues of hunting and fishing access. This annual forum allows members to raise concerns and to hear about what SCI and their Congressional leadership are doing. The meeting was moderated by SCI Deputy President-Elect Mike Crawford and moderated by SCI Alaska Chapter President John Sturgeon. SCI Kenai Chapter President Ted Spraker also presented, as did SCI Litigation Associate Madie Demaske. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) opened the meeting by calling in from DC, where the Senate was still in session. Representative Nick Begich (R-AK) closed out the meeting with a presentation and by taking questions from the constituents.

Women Go Hunting: Several hundred women participated in SCI’s Women Go Hunting (WGH) program this year, visiting the WGH booth to participate in the free sweepstakes and attending the annual “Ladies Mix & Mingle” event. This year, Legends Ranch supported the WGH initiative by donating three Women’s Learn-to-Hunt packages, giving six women the opportunity to learn hunting basics and a complete “field to table” experience at the Ranch. For the first time, WGH conducted a silent auction raising $8,850 thanks to Jorrie Jewelry, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and Kristie Titus and Western Sky Outfitters for their generous donations. This year’s “Mix & Mingle” brought several hundred women to the Omni Hotel to listen to Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Madison Sheahan speak on the role of women in hunting and conservation and to network with other women. Enthusiastic feedback onsite and in social media indicate positive engagement with women of all experience levels and a desire to participate in SCI programs. Special thanks to Secretary Sheahan and to our generous donors!

International Range States Representation: Representatives from six range states and Canada met with U.S. Representative Troy Downing (R-MT 02) and staff from the office of Representative Mike Rulli (R-OH) to discuss international wildlife conservation issues. Federal laws can damage range state reliance on sustainable-use conservation to fund wildlife management and ensure the support of local stakeholders for large wildlife populations. This meeting allows for dialogue and coalition-building between these countries and the U.S. Congress.

SCI Celebrates Another Year of Partnership with Federal Agencies at Convention

SCI thanks the federal agency representatives who attended and educated SCI members at this year’s Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) attended and staffed a booth to answer the questions of SCI members who hunt internationally and seek permits to import trophies. FWS staff included representatives from the divisions that review permit applications and the Office of Law Enforcement, which inspects animal imports at U.S. ports. For the first time this year, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also staffed a booth. CBP also inspects shipments under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) regulations. Representatives from the USDA’s Veterinary Services program also attended. Hunters, taxidermists, and many others spent a significant amount of time visiting these booths and resolving their concerns! FWS and CBP staff also hosted a seminar on import permit regulations, further educating SCI members. An audience of more than 30 people engaged in a conversation that will make importing hunting trophies more efficient for all involved.

Finally, representatives from the USDA National Feral Swine Damage Management Program presented on how that program helps control feral swine around the country with the overarching goal to protect agricultural, natural resources, property, animal health, and human health and safety by managing damage caused by feral swine in the United States and its territories. More than 20 SCI members and private property owners attended the seminar to learn and offer feedback to improve the program’s administration.

SCI thanks all the federal agencies that made time in their packed schedules to participate in Convention. We look forward to continuing these partnerships!

Saturday Night Banquet: On Saturday, January 25, SCI hosted a sold-out celebration honoring some of the most distinguished names in the hunting community. The evening kicked off with the prestigious “Grand Slam Club/Ovis Pantheon Award” presented to Al Maki, Larry Higgins, and Craig Willis, followed by the “Young Hunter Award” to Lea Lindsay, the “Diana Award” to Claudia Tagiaferri, and the “Hall of Fame Award” to Miguel Estade. Following the awards, SCI’s thrilling auction captivated the crowd with exclusive hunts, fine jewelry, and breathtaking artwork. One of the night’s showstoppers? A ten-day Alaskan brown and black bear hunt that was auctioned off to help SCI’s Advocacy efforts around the world. A big thank you to everyone who participated as well as to Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Representative Troy Downing (R-MT 02) who were also in attendance.

Advocacy Awards: SCI is proud to announce the SCI International Legislator of the Year, Federal Legislator of the Year, State Legislator of the Year, and Governor of the Year. These recipients were chosen to receive these prestigious awards for the work they have done protecting hunting opportunities and in promoting hunting’s role in wildlife management and conservation.

• International Legislator of the Year: Zoltán Kovács, Secretary of State of International Communication and Relations. Dr. Zoltan is a devoted hunter and supporter of the hunting industry. From 2020 to 2022, he was commissioner of FeHoVa, the largest Carpathian hunting fair. In 2021, he was the governmental commissioner for hosting the World Hunting and Nature Expo. During the Hungarian EU presidency (July-December 2024) he managed not to highlight the negative aspects of hunting in the political agenda and to push the pro-hunting legislation.
• Federal Legislator of the Year: Senator John Curtis (UT) has represented Utah’s 3rd Congressional District since 2017 and is now answering the call to become Utah’s next U.S. Senator. John is a true outdoorsman who has been a dedicated steward of Utah’s public lands in Congress, consistently defending public land for recreation and multiple use as Vice Chair of the Federal Lands Subcommittee. Prior to his election to federal government, John designed and built shooting ranges around the world for law enforcement training and ran a lean, effective, and wildly popular government as Mayor of Provo, Utah where he enjoyed a 94% approval rating and was named the “Top Elected Official on Social Media” in 2015. During his time as mayor John was recognized as Silicon Slopes Community Hero, UVU’s Civic Innovator Award and Person of the Year by Utah Valley Magazine. John is an avid outdoorsman and a former exhibitor at SCI’s Convention. He has been married to his wife Sue for 41 years and together they have 6 children and 16 grandchildren.
• State Legislator of the Year: Representative Lauren Melo (R-FL-80) is the SCI 2024 State Legislator of the Year. As a legislator, Representative Melo has consistently championed the protection of fundamental rights, including the right to hunt and fish and the Second Amendment, while prioritizing the reduction of red tape to enhance economic growth in Florida. Representative Melo introduced HJR 1157 (also known as Amendment 2 on the 2024 general election ballot) to protect Floridians’ right to hunt and fish and designate hunting and fishing as the preferred means of wildlife management in the state. Despite early challenges and discouragement from other political forces, Representative Melo’s tireless advocacy and determination resulted in overwhelming bipartisan support for HJR 1157 and its companion Senate bill, which respectively passed both chambers with only one dissenting vote and was affirmed by the voters in November.
• Governor of the Year and Courage Under Fire Award: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. Safari Club International thanks Governor Landry for his dedication in preserving the rights and interests of sportsmen, defending Louisiana’s traditions and values, and enhancing conservation in his state. In 2024, Governor Landry signed several pivotal pieces of legislation benefiting Louisiana’s outdoorsmen and firearms owners, cementing his legacy as a leader in protecting the freedom to hunt, including HB 684, marking a major victory for the state’s hunters and conservationists by preventing the unnecessary relisting of the Louisiana Black Bear on the Federal Endangered Species list and establishing a black bear hunting season—the first in over 40 years. The Louisiana Black Bear stands as a prime example of how legislative, legal, and scientific efforts can come together to conserve wildlife, all due to Governor Landry’s leadership. Additionally, Governor Landry’s distinguished career of public service is underscored by his deep patriotism and dedication to the people of Louisiana. His military service in the Louisiana National Guard, his tenure as both a sheriff’s deputy and police officer, and his time as a U.S. Representative and Louisiana Attorney General reflect his unwavering commitment to public safety and the preservation of American liberties.

Recognizing our State and Federal Champions: SCI would like to recognize and thank the various state elected officials who attended the SCI Convention for their continual support of hunting on the state level. These champions, and many others, are crucial in the effort to protect the freedom to hunt in the states. From Tennessee: U.S. Representative John Rose, State Rep. Chris Todd, State Rep. Chris Hunt, State Rep. Tandy Darby, State Rep. Rusty Grills, State Rep. Kip Capley, State Rep. Jeremy Faison. From Arkansas: U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, U.S. Rep. Nick Begich. From Montana: U.S. Rep. Troy Downing. From North Carolina State Rep. Jay Adams.

Be sure to catch the full recap video here – and we’ll see you at next year’s Convention from February 18 to 21, 2026!