By Shoba Dasari – October 20, 2025 Wahpeton Daily News
The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club’s 36th Annual Sportsmen’s Smoker proved once again why it remains one of Wahpeton’s most anticipated fall traditions.
Held Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Wahpeton Community Center, the event drew a large and enthusiastic crowd eager to support local outdoor programs through raffles, games, and a hearty wild game meal.
“The 2025 Smoker was very successful,” said Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club President Greg Gerou. “Guests were enthusiastic and eager to participate in the games and raffles. Ticket sales for the meat raffles went quickly, and many of the games and gun boards sold out in record time.”
As the evening unfolded, volunteers worked efficiently to move through dozens of raffles and prize drawings, allowing the event to wrap up slightly ahead of schedule.
Proceeds from the smoker help fund the club’s annual youth fishing and hunting events, as well as conservation and access projects across Richland County.
“We are grateful for the support and encouragement from everyone that attended,” Gerou said. “The success of this event is what keeps our programs going year after year.”
The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club thanked its many volunteers, donors, and community partners who made the event possible, emphasizing that the continued success of the smoker ensures future opportunities for youth and conservation efforts across the region.