In the heart of Moscow, one exhibition has spent nearly three decades bringing together the hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation communities. The Hunting and Fishing in Russia International Trade Fair stands as the country’s largest and most prestigious event in this field, serving as a vital meeting point for manufacturers, suppliers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals.
A Rich History and Strong Legacy
The exhibition first opened its doors on February 6, 1996, at Moscow’s VDNH exhibition center. Since then, it has grown into a major international event, held twice annually with the 60th edition scheduled for September 10-13, 2026.
The fair is organized by Expodesign, one of Moscow’s largest exhibition operators with a history dating back to 1996. The event has consistently received support from federal authorities, the Moscow Government, the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and various industry associations.
Scale and Reach
The exhibition commands impressive statistics that reflect its industry dominance:
- 700+ exhibitors from Russia and numerous foreign countries
- 55,000+ total visitors per edition
- 11,000+ professional visitors including buyers and decision-makers
- 33,000+ square meters of exhibition space
The audience is notably international, with specialists attending from 32 regions of Russia, and regional visitors accounting for 27% of the total attendance. International participation has included companies from Belarus, China, India, Spain, Poland, South Korea, Japan, and other countries.
Exhibition Categories
The fair covers a comprehensive range of products and services for outdoor enthusiasts:
Fishing Equipment
- Fishing rods, reels, hooks, lines, and lures
- Tackle boxes, bait, and fish finders
- Waders, fishing apparel, and accessories
Hunting Equipment
- Hunting weapons (rifles, shotguns, air rifles)
- Knives, blades, and cutting tools
- Decoys, calls, and trapping equipment
- Optics: scopes, thermal imagers, and tracking devices
Outdoor Apparel and Gear
- Specialized clothing, footwear, and camouflage
- Tents, sleeping bags, and camping equipment
- Outdoor survival gear and accessories
Transportation
- ATVs, snowmobiles, and all-terrain vehicles
- Boats, yachts, inflatable watercraft, and outboard motors
- Vehicle accessories for outdoor pursuits
Tourism and Services
- Hunting and fishing tour operators
- Outdoor recreational bases and lodges
- Thematic literature and souvenirs
The 2026 Editions
The exhibition follows a twice-yearly schedule. The Spring 2026 edition was held from February 20-23 at VDNH pavilions 55 and 57. This 59th International Exhibition- Fair focused on promoting hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, environmental protection, and healthy lifestyles.
The upcoming 60th International Trade Fair Hunting and Fishing in Russia is scheduled for September 10-13, 2026, at the VDNH exhibition center in Pavilion 20. Admission requires ticket purchase at the venue.
An Evolving Industry Landscape
Recent editions of the exhibition have reflected notable trends in the industry. The February 2025 edition featured over 400 domestic and foreign companies at the Timiryazev Center. Notably, a significant number of Chinese manufacturers participated, with an entire hall dedicated to them.
The exhibition has also shown a shift toward more affordable equipment, reflecting changing consumer priorities. As one brand representative noted, “People are now leaning more toward budget-friendly tackle… simple fishermen don’t chase marketing or advertising, they just want a quality product”.
The expo also serves as a launch platform for innovations, with manufacturers showcasing everything from patented one-handed duck calls to amphibious boats capable of traveling over both water and ice.
Venue: VDNH Exhibition Center
The exhibition takes place at Moscow’s historic VDNH (Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy), one of the largest exhibition complexes in the world. VDNH is a permanent general-purpose trade show and amusement park that attracts over 30 million visitors annually and ranks among the world’s top 50 exhibition centers.
Business and Networking Opportunities
The Hunting and Fishing in Russia fair offers substantial value for both exhibitors and visitors:
For Exhibitors:
- Direct access to thousands of potential clients and decision-makers
- Opportunity to expand sales geography across Russia’s 32 regions
- Platform to launch new products and receive immediate market feedback
- Networking with existing and potential partners
For Visitors:
- Discover the latest products, technologies, and innovations
- Compare offerings from hundreds of domestic and international brands
- Attend seminars, workshops, and demonstrations
- Connect with tour operators and outdoor service providers
With its long history, impressive scale, and comprehensive industry coverage, the Hunting and Fishing in Russia fair remains an essential event for anyone involved in the hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation sectors. Whether you are a manufacturer looking to expand your market presence, a retailer seeking new products, or an enthusiast exploring the latest gear, this exhibition offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and do business in the heart of Moscow.
