The Gathering: Seeing the Future of Hunting at SCI

There's a certain weight to knowing that the hunt isn't just about providing meat for the table, or a trophy for the wall. It’s about something deeper – a connection to the land, a honing of skill, a preparation for the challenges life throws our way. Josh Austin, our Founding Guide, understands that intimately. He came out of the holes of the rocks, a miner called to share his hard-won knowledge—and the spirit of provision—with a new generation of hunters. That spirit is palpable at gatherings like the Safari Club International (SCI) Convention.

Keith Warren’s recent video from the SCI Convention, “BIGGEST Hunting show in the world!! @SCIFirstForHunters”, offered a quick but powerful snapshot of that future. It’s not just about the gear, though there’s plenty of that on display. It’s about the people. Seeing families—men, women, and children—from Canada, Hawaii, Bolivia, and everywhere in between, all united by the pursuit, is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of the hunt.

Warren highlights the expansion of the hunting community. It's not a shrinking, niche hobby anymore. It’s a growing movement, encompassing people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe. That’s something Randy Newberg and the folks at Hushin have been talking about for years—the importance of expanding the tent, welcoming new hunters and sharing the knowledge and traditions that have sustained us for generations. It’s the same ethos Cameron Hanes embodies when he encourages his followers to get outdoors and experience the wild firsthand.

The sheer scale of the convention—bigger and better than last year—is a sign of the health and vitality of the hunting community. It’s a place where outfitters like Lone Canyon Outfitters connect with hunters, where new techniques are shared, and where the next generation of hunters is inspired.

Think about it: a young stripling, like David facing Goliath, needs more than just a sling and a stone. He needs a community, a lineage of skill and knowledge passed down through generations. He needs mentors, like Josh, to guide him and share their wisdom. The SCI Convention is a microcosm of that community—a place where stripling hunters can find inspiration and connect with those who can help them on their journey. It’s a gathering of those who understand the responsibility that comes with dominion – the need to steward the land and provide for our families.

The High Road’s commitment to sharing practical tips and how-tos, as Warren emphasizes, is critical for building that knowledge base. Whether you're a public-land DIY hunter or planning a guided trip with an outfitter, the principles of fair chase and ethical hunting remain paramount. The MeatEater ethos—the respect for the animal, the commitment to providing for ourselves—is what separates us from the casual consumer.

If you’re looking for a way to connect with the broader hunting community and learn from some of the best in the business, mark your calendar for the 2025 SCI Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. It's a chance to see the future of hunting unfold before your eyes.

And speaking of preparation, don’t forget to get those draw tag applications in! Several states have deadlines approaching soon. If you're interested in a Bookcliffs adventure with Josh Austin, keep an eye on Lone Canyon Outfitters’ website for upcoming trips. Or, if you’re looking to introduce a young hunter to the sport, check out your local hunter-education chapter—it’s the first step in building the next generation of Rogue Hunters.