AZGFD Expo 2025

PHOENIX, AZ – Today, I stepped into a world I never knew existed, right here in the heart of Arizona. The Arizona Game And Fish Department's Outdoor Expo, held at the sprawling Ben Avery Shooting Facility in north Phoenix, promised a hands-on celebration of wildlife, conservation, and outdoor fun, and it delivered in ways I couldn't have imagined.

As a first-time visitor on this sunny weekend in March, I found myself wide-eyed and eager, plunged into an event that felt like a gateway to Arizona's natural wonders. The Expo is a free, familyfriendly affair that draws thousands of curious attendees like me. Located just off Carefree Highway, about half a mile west of I-17, the venue buzzed with energy as I arrived. The parking lot was vast, and a friendly shuttle whisked me to the entrance, sparing me a long walk under the desert sun.

Armed with sunscreen, a water bottle, and a sense of adventure, I dove in. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was greeted by a dizzying array of sights and sounds. Over 150 exhibitors - ranging from conservation groups to outdoor gear vendors - filled the tents, their booths brimming with activity.

My first stop was the family fishing tank, where kids and adults alike cast lines into a stocked pool, reeling in fish with gleeful shouts. I couldn't resist trying it myself. A volunteer handed me a rod, gave me a quick lesson, and within minutes, I'd hooked a wriggling catch. It was a small victory, but the thrill was real - especially for someone who rarely gets a nibble when fishing.

Next, I wandered toward the wildlife exhibits, where "ambassador animals" stole the show. A majestic eagle perched calmly on a handler's glove, its sharp eyes scanning the crowd. Nearby, a tiny owl kept a close eye on the predator. The desert tortoise plodded along, unfazed by the attention surrounding the enclosure.

The handlers were eager to chat, sharing tidbits about Arizona's diverse fauna - like that the state boasts 13 species of rattlesnakes, more than anywhere else in the U.S. I'll admit, that fact made me glance at the ground a little more carefully as I moved on.

The shooting range was another highlight I couldn't pass up. Under the watchful eye of an instructor, I tried my hand at target archery, sending arrows toward a bullseye with surprising focus. Then, I stepped up to test a firearm. I'd never fired a 50-caliber machine gun before, but the Expo's safe, supervised setup put me at ease. The ear protection muffled the noise, but not the adrenaline. Each pull of the trigger felt like a tiny triumph, and I left with a newfound respect for the skill it takes.

Amid the action, I stumbled upon the wildlife assets auction tent, a quirky corner of the Expo where antlers, hides, and even taxidermy mounts were up for grabs. These items, sourced from donations or roadkill, were sold to fund conservation efforts. I didn't bid - my bedroom isn't quite ready for a deer head - but watching people's reactions to the assortment of treasures was entertainment enough.

The food concessions kept me fueled, with options like burgers and tacos wafting tempting smells through the air. I grabbed a fresh lemonade and found a shady spot to rest, soaking in the atmosphere. Everywhere I looked, people were engaged - families laughing, enthusiasts swapping stories, and experts sharing knowledge.

Ty Gray, the former AZGFD director, once said this event is unmatched in blending conservation, recreation, and industry into a welcoming space. As a newbie, I couldn't agree more.

By the time I hopped the shuttle back to my car, my head was spinning with discoveries. I'd witnessed a horseback-shooting competition, chatted with off-road vehicle buffs, and even picked up a few camping and fishing tips from a professional guide, Jesse Romrell, at Lake Powell Guide Services.

The Expo wasn't just a day out - it was an invitation to explore Arizona's outdoors beyond these grounds. For a first-timer like me, it was overwhelming in the best way possible. I'm already plotting my return next year, maybe with a fishing rod of my own in tow.

The Arizona Game and Fish Expo runs annually, and if this year was any indication, it's a must-visit for anyone curious about the wild side of life. Admission and parking are free, and the memories? Priceless.