An unofficial kickoff to hunting season is being put on full display this weekend at the Clyde Muse Center in Pearl, MS. The Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza, the largest and oldest annual hunting, fishing, and outdoor show in Mississippi, runs from Friday, July 24th through Sunday, July 26th. William Barber of Presence News had the unique opportunity to stop by Friday afternoon and get a first-hand view of the festivities.
The Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza brings in a unique combination of serious outdoorsmen, casual weekend visitors, and nature-loving families with all generations represented. The vendor hall at Clyde Muse Center brings in massive crowds of people checking out the latest in hunting gear and accessories. In addition, families get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet social media personalities such as Turtleman, Mountain Man, and cast members from Swamp People. Not to mention, there are activities for the kids as well.
Vendor Booths & Outdoor Booth Displays
The vendor floor serves as a massive commercial marketplace for sports enthusiasts. There are cutting-edge products including custom bow setups, camouflage apparel, calls, scents, and blinds. Also, main floor spaces at the Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza feature extensive displays of ATVs, off-road utility vehicles, tractors, and fishing boats. Also, a dedicated artisan section showcases regional arts, handmade crafts, clothing boutiques, and unique gifts. Specialty vendors even offer on-site promotional pricing for high-end terrain equipment like all-terrain trackchairs.
When it comes to conservation and educational exhibits, organizations like the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks set up operational hubs to interact with land managers. On the other hand, there are educational booths featuring interactive safety run-throughs to emphasize hunting harness checks and proper equipment inspections. Also, experts host educational booths covering game regulations, property soil upkeep, and seasonal crop plots.
The family activities are extended to exhibits, both in and outside the venue. For instance, high-volume spectator crowds gather around the on-site pond for Jason Reynolds’ Fetch-n-Fish retriever demonstrations. In addition to face-painting, children can take part in hands-on activities including archery fields, BB gun shooting ranges, and catfish hand-grabbing tanks.
Community Organizations Making a Difference
There are many organizations out there that try their best to make a difference in the community. In addition to scoping out the activities and various vendors, Presence News’ William Barber also got the opportunity to speak with some of them.
Chad Hill is with the organization D.T.D. Outdoors, based out of Northeast Mississippi. He shared with Presence News how the organization helps those less fortunate experience hunting. “What we do is veteran hunts, disabled children, and less fortunate children hunts,” he said. “That’s where 100 percent of our money goes.”
However, there are others too that want to help extend the enjoyment of nature and hunting to those less fortunate. Southern Outdoors Unlimited, for example, is celebrating its 20th year. They also seek to provide hunting and fishing opportunities to those who, for whatever reason, are denied the privilege to do so. Van Waites of Southern Outdoors Unlimited took the time out of his busy schedule to speak with Presence News. “We take individuals with disabilities on hunts, whether it’s deer hunts, alligator hunts, or fishing rodeos,” he said. “A lot of times kids nowadays don’t have the opportunity to get outdoors because of whatever situation, so we take kids with disabilities and take them outdoors and let them enjoy God’s green earth.”
Memorable Attractions
Beyond the vendor exhibits, the Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza offered a variety of attractions that kept visitors entertained throughout the day. One of the most popular outdoor demonstrations was the raccoon dog swim race, where trained dogs raced across the on-site pond to retrieve floating objects while spectators lined the shoreline to cheer them on.
The animal show highlighted the rapid and obedient nature of the animals, making visitors clap in appreciation.
On entering the event, people were seen viewing various displays related to wildlife and taking part in interactive programs. Kids had fun being painted like their favorite animals, taking part in fun activities like BB gun shooting and archery, while adults explored stalls selling hunting gear and fishing supplies.
Visitors were even able to see popular personalities like Turtleman and Mountain Man and other famous members of the show Swamp People, making the event a very informative and fun experience for all.
Community Impact
More than just an outdoor exposition, the Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza serves as a gathering place for Mississippi’s hunting, fishing, and conservation communities. The event brings together nonprofit organizations, state agencies, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts who share a common interest in preserving the state’s outdoor traditions while encouraging responsible recreation and conservation.
Groups like D.T.D. Outdoors and Southern Outdoors Unlimited show in their efforts how the great outdoors can be a source of great experiences for veterans, kids, and people with disabilities. Adding educational displays and conservation outreach along with kid-friendly events, the festival becomes a place where people can profit from their coming, picking up useful new skills and learning how to be involved in their community in the state of Mississippi. With the conclusion of the year, Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza will be celebrating yet another successful season.
Sources:
Official Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza – 2026 Event Page
Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza – Official Event Flyer / Full Schedule
