Europe's Largest Hunting Fair Kicks Off in Dortmund

 Europe's Largest Hunting Fair Kicks Off  in Dortmund

  On January 28, 2025, JAGD & HUND, Europe's largest hunting trade fair, will open its doors at Messe Dortmund in Germany. Spanning six days, the event is set to attract hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, dog and nature lovers, and families from around the world to explore the latest trends, products, and challenges in the hunting industry. With a strong focus on hands-on experiences, the fair will feature a wide range of activities across nine exhibition halls, including the debut of expert masterclasses and a wildlife photography competition.

Global Exhibitors and Industry Leaders

For the first time since 2020, the legendary Westfalenhalle has been reintegrated into the fair, hosting the popular WILD FOOD FESTIVAL, where visitors can savor gourmet game dishes. This year’s edition brings together top exhibitors from 36 countries, including companies from Australia, Botswana, and Argentina.

Leading brands such as Blaser Group, Frankonia, Carl Walther, and Browning will showcase hunting and sporting firearms, accessories, and outdoor gear. RWS will present ammunition, while Grube KG specializes in hunting apparel and equipment. The optics section, featuring brands like Swarovski, Leica, and ZEISS, has expanded and now spans Halls 6, 7, and 8.

Product Launches and Special Zones

Several world premieres are expected, including the first public display of the Mauser 25 rifle. Two dedicated exhibition zones return this year:

"Jagdwelt" (Hunting World) – Located in Hall 8, this area, co-organized by Jagdwelt24, offers a wide selection of hunting gear, from weapons and thermal imaging cameras to dog equipment and apparel. Brands like Härkila and Anschütz will provide expert advice, with many products available for testing and purchase at exclusive fair discounts.

"KNIFE ZONE" – Hall 5 will host premium knife manufacturers, including PUMA and OTTER, alongside expert talks and the prestigious "Knife Award", where visitors can vote for their favorite design.

Expert Insights and Special Guests

Beyond product displays, the fair introduces "JAGD & HUND Masterclasses", organized by Geartester Academy, covering topics such as wolf management and survival skills—some sessions were fully booked before the event began. Daily lectures on stages across the halls will feature discussions on wildlife conservation, hunting ethics, and new technologies.

This year’s edition welcomes high-profile international guests, including John-Thomas Dipowe, Ambassador of Botswana to Germany, and Alice Mashingaidze, Ambassador of Zimbabwe. Prof. Edson Gandiwa, Director of Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks), and Isaac Theophilus from the Botswana Wildlife Producers Association (BWPA) will also participate in discussions on sustainable hunting and conservation.

Sabine Loos, Managing Director of Westfalenhallen Group, emphasized the significance of these visits: "The presence of these international delegates highlights the role of hunting in biodiversity conservation and community development."

JAGD & HUND 2025 runs until February 2. For more details, visit the official fair website.