Image Credit: West Monroe Sports & Events
By Ali Yenchick
What started as a small boat and outdoor show has quickly evolved into one of the region’s premier outdoor events.
Held August 28-30 at West Monroe Sports & Events (WMSE), the North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo welcomed more than 10,000 attendees and over 100 vendors, exhibitors, and outdoor brands from across the country. The three-day event generated an estimated $836,465 in economic impact for the West Monroe community and produced more than $100,000 in net profit after expenses.
The North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo welcomed more than 10,000 attendees from August 28–30, bringing together more than 100 vendors, exhibitors and outdoor brands for a three-day celebration of hunting, fishing, recreation and family fun. The three-day event generated an estimated $836,465 in economic impact for the West Monroe community and produced more than $100,000 in net profit after expenses.
Originally launched in 2025 as the Boat & Outdoor Show, the event was rebranded to create a broader regional draw and showcase a wider range of outdoor recreation opportunities. The strategy paid off, with nearly half of this year’s vendors traveling from outside Louisiana and attendees filling the facility throughout the weekend.
Guests explored exhibits featuring hunting, fishing, boating, ATVs, outdoor equipment, apparel and recreational products, while families enjoyed live demonstrations, a children’s zone, food vendors and interactive activities designed for all ages.
“The growth of this event exceeded our expectations and demonstrated the strong demand for high-quality outdoor experiences in our region,” said Tyler Thrailkill, General Manager of West Monroe Sports & Events. “The North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo has quickly become a signature event for our facility, creating meaningful economic impact while bringing together families, outdoor enthusiasts and industry leaders from across the South.”
The event’s growth was driven by a deliberate effort to expand beyond a traditional boat show and create a destination experience for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region. More than 100 vendors participated in this year’s expo, showcasing everything from hunting and fishing equipment to outdoor recreation products and services.
“Our goal was to create more than a traditional boat show,” said Logan Bourgeois, Director of the North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo. “We wanted to build an event that reflects the outdoor lifestyle of our region and attracts visitors, exhibitors and brands from across the South. The response this year confirms we’re building something special for West Monroe.”
The expo was supported by title sponsors Duck Commander and Buck Commander, strengthening the event’s connection to the outdoor heritage of Northeast Louisiana while helping elevate its regional visibility. Vendors also participated in exclusive networking and hospitality experiences throughout the weekend, further enhancing the event’s appeal and long-term growth potential.
For the WMSE team, the most memorable part of the weekend was the energy throughout the facility and the diverse audience the event attracted.
“Seeing every corner of the facility filled with attendees, exhibitors and families was incredible,” said Reece Aultman, Director of Marketing & Sponsorships for WMSE. “The event created an energetic, welcoming atmosphere that appealed to both avid outdoorsmen and first-time visitors alike.”
Building on this year’s momentum, organizers are already planning enhancements for next year’s event, including expanded exhibitor offerings, additional national outdoor brands and new experiences designed to attract even more attendees and families.
“This is only the beginning,” Thrailkill added. “We see tremendous opportunity to continue growing the event and positioning West Monroe as a destination for outdoor recreation, tourism and large-scale community events.”
With record attendance, strong financial performance and growing regional recognition, the North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo has established itself as a premier outdoor event and a key driver of tourism and economic activity in West Monroe
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