Set your sights

The Iowa Deer Classic is back this Friday through Sunday. Each year, the Iowa Deer Classic brings to the hunters of Iowa and the Midwest a weekend’s-worth of trophy whitetails, world-class hunting seminars, hunting and outdoor exhibitors, hands-on archery opportunities and much more.

Lee and Tiffany Lakosky will make an appearance at this year’s Iowa Deer Classic.

“The Iowa Deer classic is unique in that it celebrates whitetail deer and deer hunting,” said Steve Finegan, Iowa Show Productions. “Iowa is known nationally for the quality deer found in the state. We attract exhibitors and attendees from all over the U.S. and other countries as well.”

There are 300 exhibitors in the show, including outfitters and guides, game calls, clothing and apparel, recreational equipment and gear, vehicles, deer attractants, feed and minerals, blinds and stands, hunting land, taxidermy services, insurance and organizations. The Iowa chapter of Safari Club International will be presenting its new display as well.

In addition to the displays and swag, a lot of activities will be open for adults and children, whether you’re a pro or just looking to get out of the house on a Saturday afternoon.

“Archery is a huge part of the show,” Finegan said. “It is a sport that is growing and attracts men, women and children of all ages to participate. Several bow manufacturers are represented at the show and offer opportunities to handle and shoot the newest equipment.

“The show offers hands-on shooting opportunities, including target archery, three-dimensional animal targets — both stationary and moving.”

New this year is the running rabbit target range, an adapted version of sporting clay target shooting but with a bow and arrow at a moving target.

“There is a free children’s archery range by the Iowa State Archery Association and a ‘Hover Ball Range,’ ” Finegan said.

But if you’re more the listener than the hunter, worry not. There are three stages with seminars presented all three days. Featured speakers include Iowa’s Lee and Tiffany Lakosky; David Holder and Family; Bill Winke; hunting experts and personalities Melissa Bachman; Roger Sigler; Tom Nelson; Torry Cook; Kerry Swendsen; and Jason Smith with Cody Skinner. Byron Ferguson will be demonstrating his trick shooting skills as well.

The National Wild Turkey Federation will be holding Turkey Calling Contest and have a BB gun shooting range.

“All of the activities are popular but do not require advance registration,” Finegan said. “While there is a general admission fee to go to the show, the activities are additional with many free of charge.

“It is our goal to gather hunting enthusiasts together in one place to see what is new, compete in contests, purchase goods and services, gather information and learn from others and have a good time.” CV

Iowa Deer Classic

March 4-6 at the Iowa Events Center
Friday: 3-9 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

GENERAL ADMISSION

Admission $12 or $20 for a three-day wristband
Youth (10 to 15) $5
Kids younger than 10 are free

EVENT REGISTRATION:

Big Buck Contest: Friday 3 p.m. through Sunday 11 a.m.
Shed Antler Contest: Friday 3 p.m. through Sunday 11 a.m.
Classic 300 Archery Tournament: Friday 3 p.m. through Sunday 11:30 a.m.
3D Pop Up: Walk up entries.
Shoot Out: Sunday afternoon