Lehigh Valley Hunting/Fishing Extravaganza kicks off its 12th season Aug. 26

It’s that time of year when the late summer doldrums affect  fishing and dove hunting season is a few weeks away. But outdoors folks can pacify their cravings by attending the 12th annual Lehigh Valley Hunting/Fishing Extravaganza Aug. 26-27 at the Kempton Fairgrounds in the village of Kempton, Pa. 

While most outdoor shows indoors, this show is mostly outdoors. While there are exhibits and equipment displays indoors or under roof, most events are outside. 

For adults, and as in the past, a 10-station sporting clays shooting course is planned as is a tomahawk throwing station for young and old, a kids’ BB gun shooting contest hosted by Corey Brossman from Innerloc’s “Out There TV” who will award a Umarex BB gun as a prize to the top shooter, a 50 target 3D archery shoot on the grounds set up by Weaknecht Archery, and one of the most popular events, the kids trout fishing station in the on-premises creek that flows through the fairgrounds. 

Kids can also register for a free youth model Remington 870 shotgun donated by Ed Razzis of East Penn Rebuilders. There’s also a free duck hunting trip that will be donated by Randy Birch Outfitters of Chincoteague, Va. 

New this year is the Chelee Warriors Mounted Archery Group, a riding/archery shooting organization that will demonstrate Native American archery skills on horseback. According to Bob Danenhower, show co-director, the mounted group will go through different courses with simulated 3D targets and competition ring targets. “It’ll be something special and unique for people to see,” said Danenhower. 

As for equipment displays, Rick Weaknecht, show co-director, said, “There will be a variety of archery manufacturer’s with demo bows and crossbows for showgoers to try. And Parker is bringing its interactive trailer for 3D shooting demonstrations.” 

Other events are Jason Lentz’s archery novelty shoots that include a running deer target, simulated live turkey, iron buck, ping pong and poker shoot. 

New too this year is Randall Arndt’s Gem Mining demonstrations that should interest all age groups. Plus, trapping and predator calling demonstrations, bird dog competitions (must register) and bird dog seminars by Pleasant Valley Farms and Cabela’s. 

Tim Klock, international chainsaw carving champ, will be on hand to demonstrate his carving art and next door Stihl will have a power saw display along with the company’s other power tool line.  

Speaking of wood carving, G&C Lumber will bring their lumber sawmilling equipment to demonstrate their operation of milling timber into planks and cuts that can be purchased at the conclusion of the show. 

Back again will be the Dogs of War Vietnam Military reenactment along with the folks of the Primitive black powder encampment and demonstrations. 

On Saturday, the shows’ hunting and fishing flea market always draws a crowd and it’s where deals can be made for new and used outdoor equipment, art, clothing, firearms, fishing gear and other related equipment. Tables must be reserved on a first come basis by calling Bob Danenhower at 610-398-7609. 

You can also register your mount for Weaknecht’s free Big Buck Contest that will award an array of prizes. 

For photo buffs, why not enter your best work in the shows’ annual photo contest, with this year’s theme being “The Seasons.” For entry and judging, photo’s must be mounted on matt board no larger than 16x20 and should be placed in a matt board sleeve to protect it. Participants may enter up to three pictures with an entry fee of $5 per photo. The contest will be judged by fair visitors and on Sunday, Aug. 27, prizes be awarded thereafter. Entries may be dropped off at Bob’s Taxidermy, Kernsville Road in Orefield, Weaknecht Archery in Kutztown or the Carbon County Environmental Education Center in Summit Hill. For more information, contact Jeannie Carl at 570-325-4336. 

Show admission is $5 for adults, $1 for children ages 8-12 and children under 8 are free as are all Boy and Girl Scouts wearing their uniform tops. On Sunday, admission is free for veterans, active military, police, firefighters and emergency responders with proof of service. Free t-shirts will be given to the first 400 paid adults each day. Show hours are 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. both days of the show. 

For GPS users, Kempton Fairgrounds is located at 83 Community Drive, Kempton and off I-78 at Krumsville Exit 40. From there drive North on Rte. 737 to the grounds entrance. For more information check www.lehighvalleyhuntingfishingextravaganza.com. 
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