SEMINARS & PRESENTATIONS
Free seminars and classes are happening all weekend at the Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show, taught by Alaskan experts on a wide variety of topics.
Seminars are free, but
SEATING IS LIMITED
Arrive a little early. Check in at the seminar registration table and pick up a ticket to reserve your seat!
FRIDAY SEMINARS
Friday
1:00
Free Construction Training
presented by Alaska Works Partnership
Alaska Works Partnership provides free, hands-on introductory training that gives Alaskans the skills they need to launch successful careers in high-demand industries. From construction and transportation to oil & gas, or mining, the programs open the doors to well-paying jobs and long-term career opportunities across the state.
Friday
2:00
Stop the Bleed
presented by Northern Lights Armory
This seminar, presented by Northern Lights Armory, provides a demonstration of the tools and how to respond effectively to life-threatening severe bleeding. It includes proper tourniquet use and empowers bystanders with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist someone in need.
Friday
2:00
Alaska Military Youth Academy
presented by Alaska Military Youth Academy
Learn about joining Alaska Military Youth Academy! The AMYA is Alaska’s premier youth leadership academy, developing leaders of tomorrow. It is a voluntary program that partners with youth ages 16-18 to develop self-confidence, discipline, job skills, leadership skills, and assists youth in reaching their educational goals. Youth reside on the AMYA campus for the 22-week residential portion of the program. Tuition is FREE!
Friday
3:00
Halibut 101
presented by Ernie Kirby, Bottom Line Charters
Halibut 101 – where to fish, tides, gear, tackle, bait & methods to successfully catch halibut. Presented by Capt. Ernie Kirby, owner of Bottom Line Charters in Ninilchik, who will share his 32 years of saltwater guiding on the Kenai peninsula. Geared for the novice to the weekend fisherman.
Friday
3:00
Off Grid & Solar Applications
presented by Nick Lochard & Devon Stewart, All Off Grid
Off Grid and Solar Applications for the Alaskan Lifestyle. This presentation will consist of an overview of our off grid philosophy for Alaskan living as well as what we offer in terms of packages. We will have an open Q&A. We will also discuss proper system sizing from small cabin living to larger, full size homes.
Friday
4:00
Bear Aware
presented by Sarah Stallone, Accurate Advantage
Prepare for Safe Alaskan Adventures! Learn key points of understanding bear behavior and how we can safely interact during our Alaskan adventures. Learn top details of pepper spray and/or firearms for bear defense and start your adventure season off confidently!
Friday
5:00
Building Better Boats
presented by Class 5 Boatworks
Building a better boat involves painting it blue and calling it new. This session will discuss some of the things to look for in a better boat and the innovative materials that Class 5 Boatworks has been introducing to the boating world for the last 11 years.
SATURDAY SEMINARS
Saturday
11:00
Permanent Holiday Lighting
presented by AKTrimlight
Learn about the pros and cons of having permanent holiday lighting and never get on the roof again! We will discuss how it is installed, warranty, maintenance, and how it all operates. You can change the mood with a simple push of a button!
Saturday
12:00
Stop the Bleed
presented by Northern Lights Armory
This seminar, presented by Northern Lights Armory, provides a demonstration of the tools and how to respond effectively to life-threatening severe bleeding. It includes proper tourniquet use and empowers bystanders with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist someone in need.
Saturday
12:00
Master Your Draw
presented by Donna Anthony, Point Blank Firearms
Master Your Draw – Essential Handgun Skills. Proper grip for better control, correct stance for stability & accuracy, a five-step presentation from your holster, after-action drills to reinforce fundamentals, SUL360 for enhanced situational awareness and safety.
**This seminar is limited to 15 people.
Saturday
1:00
Building Better Boats
presented by Class 5 Boatworks
Building a better boat involves painting it blue and calling it new. This session will discuss some of the things to look for in a better boat and the innovative materials that Class 5 Boatworks has been introducing to the boating world for the last 11 years.
Saturday
1:00
Halibut 101
presented by Ernie Kirby, Bottom Line Charters
Halibut 101 – where to fish, tides, gear, tackle, bait & methods to successfully catch halibut. Presented by Capt. Ernie Kirby, owner of Bottom Line Charters in Ninilchik, who will share his 32 years of saltwater guiding on the Kenai peninsula. Geared for the novice to the weekend fisherman.
Saturday
2:00
Lifecycle of a Loan
presented by Brian Headings, Matanuska Valley FCU
Lifecycle of a Loan: Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union is excited to offer a free seminar on the Life Cycle of a Loan. During this seminar, we will discuss the various loan types, products, and services MVFCU has to offer our community. We are very excited to take this opportunity to show insight to the Consumer Lending process and answer any questions we can.
Saturday
2:00
Intro to the Board of Game
presented by Caleb Martin, Alaska Outdoor Council
Learn the Board of Game process. Write proposals to changing hunting and fishing regulations and provide meaningful testimony and more!
Saturday
3:00
Approach to RV Service, Maintenance & Repair
presented by Cache Camper
This seminar will cover the ins and outs of maintaining a camper. This includes winterizing, de-winterizing, axles-bearings-hubs and brakes, batteries, solar, dumping, sanitization, and other things camper owners should be aware of to fully enjoy their camper and retain its value.
Saturday
3:00
West Susitna Access Road
presented by Susitna River Coalition
West Susitna Access Road: What it Means for Hunters, Anglers, and Our Wild Spaces: Join the Susitna River Coalition for a presentation on the proposed West Susitna Access Road. We’ll cover the latest developments, potential impacts, and key considerations for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Learn how this project could affect access, fish and wildlife, and the future of the region. Whether you support it, oppose it, or just want more information, this is a chance to hear the latest updates and ask questions.
Saturday
4:00
West Susitna Access Project Update
presented by Alaska Industrial Development & Export Authorigy
Millions of acres of Alaska state lands lie west of the Susitna River, which can provide new opportunities for outdoor recreation, jobs, and economic growth for Alaskans. Join us to learn more about how we are working to improve access to this area to ensure that all Alaskans have opportunities to brave new adventures there.
Saturday
4:00
Off Grid Solar
presented by Renewable Energy Systems
Being off grid simplified and manageable, on the go! Whether you are full time off grid, cabin, boat, or RV, never be without power again! We build the system for your lifestyle, from weekend fishing to completely off grid living.
Saturday
5:00
Trawl Bycatch in Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska
presented by Salmon State
What it is and what can be done: Trawlers tow nets the size of a football field through the water column, catching everything in their path. This indiscriminate fishing practice leads to the “incidental” catch of non-target species, commonly known as bycatch. Bycatch cannot leagally be retained, so the marjority of it is discarded with a small percentage donated. Trawling leads to millions of pounds of bycatch every year. In 2024 alone, 38,751 Chinook salmon, 48,643 chum salmon, 4.5 million pounds of halibut, 950,680 individual crabs, 3 million pounds of herring, and 1 orca were bycaught by trawlers in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. Join us to learn more about how these fisheries are managed, the impacts on Alaskans, and how you can get involved to stop wasteful trawl bycatch.
Saturday
5:00
Nancy Lake State Recreation Area
Presented by Friends of State Parks
A local’s guide to hidden routes, wild waters, and backcountry secrets. Ready to experience Nancy Lake State Recreation Area beyond the usual trails and campsites? Join Nicole from Tippecanoe Alaska as she shares hidden canoe routes, secret fishing spots, and insider tips for exploring this wild, water-filled wonderland like a true backcountry pro.
SUNDAY SEMINARS
Sunday
11:00
Adventure Awaits
presented by Dr. Robert Forto, Alaska Dog Works
Unleashing the Power of Podcasting in Outdoor Storytelling: Podcasting is an engaging medium that allows storytellers to vividly share their outdoor adventures through immersive audio experiences. Listeners can easily connect with the emotions and excitement of exploring nature, as the format fosters a sense of intimacy and presence. Additionally, podcasts can reach a diverse audience, making it easier to inspire others to embark on their own outdoor journeys. Join us to learn about starting a podcast!
Sunday
12:00
Backcountry Canoe Access Skills
presented by Mark Richards, Resident Hunters of Alaska
Backcountry Canoe Access Skills Lining and Poling: this class teaches hunters that they can access hunting grounds with a canoe, line upstream, and then float back down with your meat. No motor or fancy boat required, just a canoe and human power.
Sunday
12:00
Proper Grip and Better Control
presented by Donna Anthony, Point Blank Firearms
Master Your Draw – Essential Handgun Skills. Proper grip for better control, correct stance for stability & accuracy, a five-step presentation from your holster, after-action drills to reinforce fundamentals, SUL360 for enhanced situational awareness and safety.
**This seminar is limited to 15 people.
Sunday
1:00
Building Better Boats
presented by Class 5 Boatworks
Building a better boat involves painting it blue and calling it new. This session will discuss some of the things to look for in a better boat and the innovative materials that Class 5 Boatworks has been introducing to the boating world for the last 11 years.
Sunday
1:00
Wilderness First Aid
presented by Jessica van Wulven, Ready Alaska
Fractures, sprains, cuts, burns, falls, hypothermia, embedded fish hooks… there are countless ways that you or someone with you could get injured while out enjoying Alaska’s wilderness. Jessica van Wulven, an experienced medical provider and outdoor enthusiast, will be teaching splinting, fishhook removal, how to handle bleeding emergencies, and other basic medical skills that could mean the difference between life and death in Alaskas remote wilderness.
Sunday
2:00
Stop the Bleed
presented by Northern Lights Armory
This seminar, presented by Northern Lights Armory, provides a demonstration of the tools and how to respond effectively to life-threatening severe bleeding. It includes proper tourniquet use and empowers bystanders with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist someone in need.
Sunday
3:00
Halibut 101
presented by Ernie Kirby, Bottom Line Charters
Halibut 101 – where to fish, tides, gear, tackle, bait & methods to successfully catch halibut. Presented by Capt. Ernie Kirby, owner of Bottom Line Charters in Ninilchik, who will share his 32 years of saltwater guiding on the Kenai peninsula. Geared for the novice to the weekend fisherman.
Sunday
3:00
On-Grid Energy
presented by Renewable Energy Systems
Remove the confusion and mystery of going solar while being on grid. Find out how easy and quickly it pays itself off. Hear how our modular systems can fit the vision you have for solar!
Sunday
4:00
Meet Bret Bohn
presented by Susitna Energy Solutions
Susitna Energy is thrilled to host Bret Bohn – Alaskan outdoorsman, hunting guide, and Mountain Men television personality for an engaging discussion and Q&A on his life living off-grid! Born and raised in Alaska, Bret holds a degree in Aviation Technology and has over 13 years experience guiding moose and brown bear hunts. He gained national attention in 2016 after saving his father from a grizzly bear attack. Today, Bret and his wife, Ivy O’Guinn, share their off-the-grid lifestyle on the History Channel and live seasonally between the remote Alaskan wilderness and the fisihing village of Egegik.
