Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

HAMPTON
The 77th East Regional Big Game Contest sponsored by the Virginia Peninsula Sportsman Association is scheduled for the Hampton Convention Center on Sept 10-11. This longest continuous big game trophy contest is being held in conjunction with the regularly scheduled SGK Gun Show. Come see some of the largest bucks, bearded turkeys and big bears harvested last season. The Sportsmans Expo hosting the contest will feature exhibitors with the latest in gear, supplies, calls, artwork, taxidermy, survival gear and more.

Special exhibits on adaptive sports and gear for wounded veterans and persons with disabilities will show how disabled sportsmen can fully participate in outdoor sports, services and equipment to develop independence, confidence and fitness. VDGIF’s exhibit will feature information on new VDGIF programs and hunting opportunities.

Pick up your free copy of the new2016-2017 Hunting Regulations & Information booklet that features descriptions of new regulations and opportunities to enhance your hunting experience this season. The VDGIF Wildlife K 9 Team will be there to demonstrate their unique skills assisting officers in wildlife investigations and search and rescue. Complementary Work Force volunteers will be on hand with outdoor skills displays for the kids. Come see the truly awesome trophy bucks, bears and gobblers harvested in Virginia last season. The top five winners in each category in the East Regional Championship Contest are eligible to compete in the State Championship held at Augusta Expo in Fishersville on Sept. 23-25.

The 77th Western Regional and State Championship Big Game Contest is set for Sept. 23-25 sponsored by the Western Virginia Sportsman Association and VPSA at the Augusta Expo Center in Fishersville.

This year the Western Regional is also the State Championship. Registration begins on Friday, Sept. 23 at 9 a.m. Trophy entry deadline is 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Exhibitors will be on hand with the latest in gear, supplies, artwork, taxidermy, and more. VDGIF’s exhibit will feature information on new VDGIF programs and hunting opportunities. Come see the truly awesome trophy bucks, bears and gobblers harvested in Virginia.

For rules and information on both contests, visit www.vpsa.org.