Country Lifestyles

Get Ready for Some Serious RACKS!

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Birmingham, Alabama– Did you catch the “rack” on that one? We’ve all heard that line once or twice, but let’s shift our focus from the gutter to the great outdoors – specifically, to the thrill of seeing a magnificent set of deer antlers!

There’s a rumble in the woods, a stir in the heart of every true outdoors enthusiast, and it’s all leading to one place this July: Birmingham, Alabama! Get ready to feel that excitement build, that thrill of anticipation surge through your veins, because the World Deer Expo is about to hit like a buck in rut, and you absolutely, positively do not want to miss it!

Alright, let’s be honest, folks, a big part of the thrill, the excitement, of deer hunting comes from one thing: RACKS! And we’re not talking about your grandma’s spice rack either (unless it’s holding some deer jerky, then maybe). We’re talking about those magnificent, awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping antlers that tell a story of power, dominance, and a whole lot of protein.

At the World Deer Expo, you’re going to see so many impressive racks, you might just need a chiropractor after all the head-turning! We’re talking about giants that would make a taxidermist weep tears of joy, and perfect symphonies of bone that will have you reconsidering the size of your truck bed. Forget your humble little eight-pointers – prepare to feast your eyes on some serious, show-stopping headgear!

Revolutionize the Next Hunt

Imagine yourself stepping into a world where every corner holds a new discovery, a new piece of gear that will revolutionize your next hunt, or a story from a seasoned expert that will leave you breathless. Picture the gleam in your eye as you see those colossal antlers up close, feel the weight of a top-of-the-line bow in your hand, or get a sneak peek at the latest in trail camera technology. This is where dreams are born, where strategies are honed, and where the unbreakable bond between man and nature is celebrated with a fervor that’s truly electrifying.

So, whether you’re dreaming of bagging your own Boone and Crockett monster, or you just appreciate the sheer artistry of nature’s finest headpieces, come on down to Birmingham. You’ll be surrounded by folks who understand that an impressive rack isn’t just a trophy; it’s a work of art, a symbol of dedication, and a story waiting to be told. Just try not to get too dizzy from all the magnificent RACKS you’ll witness!

Event Schedule

This isn’t just an event; it’s an experience designed to awaken the hunter, the conservationist, the wildlife admirer in all of us. That crisp, earthy scent of the forest, the whisper of leaves underfoot, the raw, untamed beauty of nature. That’s what the World Deer Expo embodies, and it’s coming to ignite your passion for the outdoors like never before.

Pure Exhilaration

Do you remember that feeling of pure exhilaration when you finally spotted that majestic buck? That heart-pounding moment of truth that makes every early morning, every cold vigil, absolutely worth it? The World Deer Expo is bringing that feeling, that rush, right to your doorstep. You’ll be surrounded by thousands of like-minded individuals who share your passion, your dedication, and your unwavering love for the deer. The camaraderie alone is enough to send shivers down your spine!

“My dad took me hunting at a young age of 10 or 11. I didn’t start hunting deer until I was 13. The first time I saw one, it was just a doe and a yearling but it made my heart jump up into my throat. I was about 16 when that happened and I didn’t shoot my first deer until I was 17.”

Bob Coker
World Deer Expo founder

Meet The Founder

Bob Coker, a Shelby County resident and former electrical engineer, transformed his lifelong passion for hunting into a full-time career. He is notably the founder of the World Deer Expo in Birmingham, established 35 years ago, which has grown into the world’s oldest and largest three-day consumer hunting show.

Coker has also hosted the long-running TV show, “Outdoors with Bob Coker,” showcasing his hunting adventures across the globe since 2000. Among his significant hunting achievements are successfully hunting a male lion in South Africa and finally getting his first mountain goat after four challenging attempts, which he considers a major accomplishment. Bob can also be found on several podcasts and other hunting shows like American Roots Outdoors.

Bob Coker with his mounted lion he hunted

His hunting philosophy, especially for dangerous game, emphasizes raw footage without added drama and a strong focus on safety. He also ensures that all harvested meat is utilized, often donated to families and organizations. His dedication to the sport runs in the family, with his three daughters actively involved in hunting, and his oldest now managing the World Deer Expo. Coker plans to continue his show as long as he enjoys hunting.

Tickets

Adults (age 12 &up) $25 plus fees
Children (age 4-11) $15 plus fees
Age 3 & under FREE
**1 ticket allows access for any 1 day

What You’ll Find

The Expo features a weekend full of fun for everyone who loves hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. The Expo has the Latest and Greatest of Hunting Products and Apparel, Outfitters from all over the World. 12 Free hunting trips will be given away including African Safaris.

Gain Wisdom

And let’s talk about the wisdom you’ll gain! Ever wondered how to perfectly set up a food plot that will draw them in from miles around? Want to learn the secrets of ethical harvesting from the pros? Or maybe you’re just itching to hear incredible hunting tales that will fuel your own adventures for years to come. The Expo is a treasure trove of knowledge, presented by experts who live and breathe the deer woods. Prepare to have your mind blown and your hunting prowess elevated to a whole new level!

This isn’t just about gear and gadgets, though there will be plenty of awe-inspiring innovations to drool over. It’s about the heart of the outdoors. It’s about conservation, about understanding the magnificent creatures we share our world with, and about ensuring the future of this incredible pastime for generations to come. Feel that sense of responsibility, that deep-seated desire to protect and preserve? The World Deer Expo will amplify it, providing you with the tools and inspiration to be a better steward of our natural resources.

The Biggest Rack

The World Deer Expo in Alabama hosts a “Big Buck Competition” where hunters can have their harvested deer heads scored. The competition, which has a $30 entry fee, is open to Alabama-harvested bucks from any year (excluding those from enclosures) and includes categories such as Typical, Non-typical, Bow, Top 8 Point, Youth, and Ladies. Measuring takes place from Friday at 3 PM until Sunday before noon, with an awards ceremony on Sunday at 2 PM. Winners in each category receive plaque awards, and the overall top gun and top bow winners receive a free donated hunt. For more details, participants can contact Larry Manning.

Sunday, July 13
2PM Deer Head Awards Ceremony

For more information, visit the Big Buck Competition Page.

Outdoor Celebrities

The World Deer Expo typically features a range of special guests and outdoor celebrities. While the exact lineup can vary each year, this years expo includes notable personalities such as:

  • Eddie Salter (The Turkey Man): known for his expertise and seminars on turkey hunting.
  • Trent Ellis: social media personality known for blending hunting and humor
  • Hannah Barron (The Catfish Noodler): an angler known for her noodling adventures.
  • Phillip Cullpepper: TV personality -Hunt Club with Phillip Cullpepper
  • Roll Tide Willie: a social media comedian and football enthusiast from Alabama
  • Aaron Brie with Digital Taxidermy: social media “Digital Taxidermy Guy”
  • Hayden Alabama Podcast: southern storytellers

These guests often participate in seminars, meet-and-greets, and demonstrations, providing entertainment and insights for attendees. For the most current list of special guests and their schedules for the upcoming expo, please refer to the official World Deer Expo website.

Reptile Show Schedule

The Southeastern Reptile Show is an attraction at the World Deer Expo, featuring both venomous and non-venomous snakes, along with an alligator. Hosted by Jason Clark, the show provides a comedic perspective while educating attendees on venomous snakes. The show will be presented at Booth 5313 Downstairs on all three days of the expo. Show times are Friday at 5 PM and 7 PM, Saturday at 12 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM, and Sunday at 12 PM and 3 PM.

Friday, July 11, 2025
5PM & &PM Reptile Show

Saturday July, 12, 2025
12PM, 3PM & 5PM Reptile Show

Sunday July 13, 2025
12PM & 3PM Reptile Show

For more information, visit the Southeastern Reptile Show Page.

Archery Tournament

The World Deer Expo features the BHA 3-D Archery Tournament, organized by the Bow Hunters of Alabama. Participants must be BHA members (memberships available at the Expo for $20 individual, $30 family). The cost to shoot is $10 for the first round and $5 for subsequent rounds, with the best score counting. Awards are given for the top three places in all classes on Sunday. For more information, contact James Hornbuckle at 205-675-7407 or bowhuntersofalabama@gmail.com.

For more information, visit the BHA 3-D Archery Tournament Page.

Photo Credit: World Deer Expo

Trout Pond: Your Chance to Reel One In!

Feeling lucky? Why not cast a line at the Trout Pond! We’ve got a portable pond bursting with over 500 pounds of farm-raised rainbow trout, just waiting for you to hook ’em. For only $5, you get five minutes to try your hand at landing a big one. It’s quick, it’s fun, and you might just surprise yourself with your fishing skills!

Photo credit: World Deer expo. Trout pond

Tickets

Adults (age 12 &up) $25 plus fees
Children (age 4-11) $15 plus fees
Age 3 & under FREE
**1 ticket allows access for any 1 day

Stay Informed

Don’t miss out on anything happening at the expo. Download the app for expo information and additional great features like wind speed & direction, weather forecast, GPS mapping & tracking for hunting areas and more..

Photo credit: World Deer Expo

See You There

So, don’t let this opportunity slip through your fingers like a phantom deer in the fog! Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and start counting down the days. The World Deer Expo in Alabama this July is more than an event; it’s a pilgrimage for the soul, a chance to reconnect with your deepest passions, and an experience that will leave you energized, inspired, and utterly thrilled.

Get ready to feel the excitement, the anticipation, the sheer joy of being part of something truly special. We’ll see you there, where the spirit of the hunt thrives, and the love for the outdoors burns brightest!

Jodi Erpelding

I grew up on a Midwest farm with dirt under my fingernails and the sound of wind rustling through cornfields. My childhood was all about 4H – raising pigs and horses, learning to bake and sew, and discovering the magic of transforming a garden into jars of summer sunshine. Those years taught me the value of hard work, the thrill of seeing a project through to the end, and the simple joy of creating something beautiful. A country girl with a need for speed and a thirst for adventure. Maybe that's why I love the feeling of wind in my hair – whether I'm cruising down a dusty road on my Harley or tackling a mountain trail on my trusty mountain bike. Some of my earliest memories of rodeo are watching my father compete at small local events. That's also where my love for country music comes in – long car rides listening to 8 tracks. The lyrics and melodies always spoke to my soul. These days, you'll find me cheering on the cowboys and cowgirls at rodeos, two-stepping to my favorite bands, belting out a country tune at a concert or sharing stories and laughter with friends around a bonfire. When I'm not soaking up the country life and getting my boots dirty, I'm a nurse, caring for folks in my community. Follow along for more stories from the heart of rodeo and country life!

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