Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Any amount of time in the woods is hard on gear. With modern fabrics leading to hefty price tags, it’s important to protect for seasons to come. To elevate the entire scent control system, Scent Thief® developed a laundry detergent to clean hunting apparel while maximizing its performance. 

Many technical hunting fabrics start to sacrifice performance after heavy use. To solve this, a product was needed that cleaned fabrics without leaving behind a scent deer could detect. The answer was Scent Thief’s patented “No Smell” technology. Unlike traditional scentless laundry detergents, Scent Thief’s detergent is designed to be smelled by deer. The unique formula temporarily disables a deer’s sense of smell rather than using chemicals to mask human odor. Washing your clothes in this detergent before a hunt is no mistake!

The result is a product that gives hunters the edge in all conditions, including high and swirling winds. The Scent Thief Laundry Detergent is phosphate-free and safe for technical fibers, carbon apparel, and wool. The detergent is safe for the skin as well as the environment. Clothing will last for its intended use, as Scent Thief’s Laundry Detergent won’t compromise the lifespan of your hunting clothing.

Scent Thief’s laundry detergent is available in a 32 oz container and is recommended to be used with the rest of the Scent Thief line of products. Go undetected in the woods while keeping base layers and camouflage clean as can be!

Scent Thief Laundry Detergent Features:

Ontario Knife Company® (OKC®), the esteemed brand that boasts a rich legacy of more than 130 years in crafting high-quality and functional knives and tools, and is proud to introduce its latest innovation, the CF100 Folder. Designed for everyday carry, this sleek and versatile knife combines exceptional materials and expert craftsmanship, making it an essential companion for every adventure.

The OKC CF100 Folder showcases a striking combination of features, including a spearpoint style blade profile and a stainlesssteel frame lock handle. Its blade, expertly crafted from 14C28N steel with a carbon fiber inlay, ensures impressive sharpness and resilience in any cutting task. The OKC CF100 not only serves as a reliable tool but also stands as a testament to fine craftsmanship, making it a piece you’ll proudly display when the occasion calls for flaunting your new folder.

With an overall length of 7.34 inches (and a blade length of 3.13 inches), the CF100 folder nails the sweet spot between being compact and practical. So, whether you’re braving the concrete jungle or venturing into the great outdoors, this adaptable folding knife is tailored to fit your active lifestyle, making sure you’ve always got a trusty cutting tool by your side.

“Ontario Knife Company has a rich history of delivering top-quality knives for every adventure, and the CF100 Folder is no exception to this legacy,” said David Fenske, Vice President of Ontario Knife Company. “With its fusion of style and functionality, this knife embodies our commitment to crafting exceptional tools that meet the needs of our customers.”

Founded in 1889, the Ontario Knife Company® is an award-winning knife, cutlery, and tool manufacturer operating out of Upstate New York for over 125 years. OKC® produces a wide range of tools, including cutlery and kitchenware, hunting and fishing knives, machetes, survival and rescue equipment, science and medical tools, and tactical knives. OKC has a long tradition of building knives and tools for the U.S. military, producing high quality equipment that has seen continuous service since WWII. In addition to being a major supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces, OKC leverages a network of distributors, dealers, and major commercial retailers to sell its products nationwide and internationally to over 35 countries. OKC’s custom manufacturing division Jericho® Tool, advances capabilities including a broad-spectrum of injection molding, tool and die, and machining operations to provide white label and OEM manufacturing services for consumer and industrial goods. Collectively OKC’s product lines and manufacturing services reach the housewares, sporting goods, tactical, security, law enforcement & first responders, education, science & medical, and industrial & agricultural industries.

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) and “Hunting Matters” welcomes Danny Shaw, Executive Director of Operation Game Thief. 

Having spent 33 years as a game warden for Texas Parks and Wildlife, Danny has had the opportunity to serve Texans. Conservation of our natural resources has been his focus both professionally and personally. He and his wife Elaine have raised four daughters and one son.

Danny had the privilege throughout his career to hold many positions within the Law Enforcement division. He began his career in 1986 as a field game warden in Port Isabel and completed the final leg as Lieutenant Colonel (Director of Field Operations). Along the way he held the positions of lieutenant, captain and major. Danny spent five years as the director of training at the Game Warden Training Center.

He has invested the last decade of his career involved in conservation issues at the state and national level. He helped create a National Leadership Academy for conservation law enforcement professionals, held annually in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. The curriculum that was developed challenges students to face the realities of resource management, exploitation of our natural resources and building impactful relationships with all our stakeholders.

Danny wants to become a catalyst for engaging Texans to intentionally help game wardens stop those individuals and groups who are stealing our resources. He believes that each and every species is irreplaceable and exists for our spirit and harmony of our world.

C&H Precision, a leading firearms manufacturer, is thrilled to announce its decision to continue its operations in Bryan County, GA, and unveil plans for a significant investment in a state-of-the-art manufacturing and headquarters facility. The new building will be located on Thunderbird Drive in the city of Richmond Hill, showcasing C&H Precision’s commitment to local growth and expansion. The estimated $10 million project is projected to create 20 to 30 new jobs.

“It has been incredible watching the success and growth C&H has experienced since the company moved to Richmond Hill in 2017,” said Development Authority of Bryan County (DABC) Chairman Jon Seagraves. “With the focus and value the company places on its employees, C&H is a great industry partner to have in the community, and we are glad they have chosen to undertake their expansion here in Bryan County.”

Spanning an impressive 48,000 square feet, the facility will encompass modern offices and cutting-edge manufacturing space designed to elevate productivity and provide an optimal work environment for the company’s valued employees. C&H Precision also aims to enhance the overall experience by incorporating a ten-bay indoor shooting range featuring state-of-the-art equipment. In addition, the facility will house a complete firearms retail pro shop, allowing firearms enthusiasts and the general public to explore an extensive selection of products. To further enhance the visitor experience, a convenient coffee and sandwich shop will also be available on-site.

“The greatest compliment a company can give is to continue to reinvest in a community and its citizens,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Thank you to C&H Precision for your commitment to Georgia. Congratulations to our partners in Bryan County on the new opportunities this exciting project will create for Georgians.”

Recognizing the importance of collaborating with local partners, C&H Precision has joined forces with esteemed firms Coleman and Company for all civil engineering needs and Felder and Associates Architecture for the initial stages of the design process. This strategic partnership ensures the highest standards of quality and expertise throughout the construction and development phases.

Are you an avid hunter and outdoorsman, or are you just looking into getting into the sport this season? Whether you’re a weekend warrior or spend every free moment out in nature with your hunting gear, keeping it all secure and tucked away can be quite the hassle.

Storing your hunting equipment used to mean cramming everything into closets and drawers around your home until there was no space left – but that’s not the case anymore.

Sheds are an excellent way to cleverly store your outdoor items without taking up valuable real estate inside your home. To guide you, we’ll discuss the best way to store your hunting gear and keep it safe.

Best Practices for Storing Your Hunting Gear in a Shed to Save Space

Hunters realise that great gear is crucial. Once you’ve got the correct gear, it’s hard to store it safely. A shed is an effective way of storing your important hunting gear while allowing for easy access when needed.

Here are some best practices for storing your hunting gear in a shed to save space:

Bowhunting has experienced a resurgence in popularity over the past decade, with more enthusiasts than ever flocking to prime bowhunting destinations worldwide. With a few friends, the right gear, and, if you use smokeless tobacco products, some nicotine pouches for the journey, you’re ready for an epic hunt.

As we venture into the year 2023, let’s highlight the top places for bowhunting enthusiasts to sharpen their skills and potentially land a trophy.

1. Iowa, United States

Iowa is a paradise for bowhunters and is renowned for its population of large, mature white-tailed deer. These majestic creatures are a bowhunter’s dream, boasting impressive antler racks and offering a thrilling hunt. 

The state has rigorous hunting regulations, contributing to a healthy deer population and ensuring that bowhunters are likely to encounter mature bucks. With its expansive hardwood forests and rolling hills, Iowa is not only a prime hunting ground but also an idyllic and picturesque location for an immersive bowhunting experience.

2. Alberta, Canada

Alberta is home to some of the world’s largest moose, making it an unrivaled destination for moose bowhunting. The vast wilderness, coupled with a significant moose population, presents a challenging yet rewarding experience for any bowhunter. 

The area of Cairns, located in Far North Queensland, Australia, is a tropical paradise that boasts lush rain forests, diverse wildlife, and the stunning Great Barrier Reef. Due to the area’s natural beauty, both residents and visitors are passionate about preserving its unique ecosystems.

One way to do this is by practicing sustainable hunting methods that help maintain healthy animal populations and protect the environment. With a camper-van from Travellers Autobarn in Cairns, you can easily access some of the best hunting grounds in the region. 

This blog post will discuss the sustainable hunting practices in Cairns that are effective in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Understanding the Importance of Sustainable Hunting

For thousands of years, hunting has been a crucial part of human culture as it has provided food, clothing, and tools crucial to our survival. However, some modern hunting practices may result in over-exploitation and destruction of habitats, thereby causing severe damage to local ecosystems.

In contrast, sustainable hunting practices prioritize the preservation of robust animal populations and the safeguarding of their habitats. This method guarantees the availability of natural resources for future generations.

Opening a gun range can be a marvelous way to combine your love of firearms, firearm safety, and business into a beautiful amalgamation. One might feel competent from years of experience handling firearms and visiting gun ranges, but it’s vital to realize that there will be more pressure and stricter rules to follow as an owner of a firing range.

We will give you vital insights and considerations customized to the UK market so that you can get your dream gun range business started sooner. Whether you’re a passionate guns enthusiast, an entrepreneur with a love for shooting sports, or someone interested in launching a gun range business, there will be something interesting for everyone.

6 Topics to Research Before Opening a Firing Range

Opening a gun range is a complicated endeavor that involves careful planning, compliance with laws, and a dedication to safety and responsible firearm handling. A UK company owner must handle the complexity of local regulations, comprehend the particular market dynamics, and address public concerns about weapons. Here are a few things to consider including: 

1) Location and Zoning Regulations

Choosing a good location for your gun range is critical. Consider accessibility, consumer proximity, and compliance with UK zoning requirements. Understanding the local standards will lay the groundwork for a profitable and legally acceptable operation. At the same time, you can have a look at utility prices for your postcode and begin hunting for deals when it comes time to launch your business.  

2) Legal and Insurance Requirements

Compliance with UK gun laws and regulations is critical to your gun range’s legality and long-term survival. We emphasize the need to seek legal guidance from individuals knowledgeable about UK firearm regulations, obtain the relevant licenses, and secure insurance coverage to protect your business from potential risks and liabilities.

CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Join the festivities and fun in the afternoon of Monday, July 10, as the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) holds the 2023 First Shot Ceremony – set to take place on the Camp Perry National Guard Training Facility’s Memorial Plaza, in front of Rodriguez Range. Seating is open to everyone prior to 4 p.m., when aircraft flyovers and pyrotechnics commence. Ceremony opening remarks begin at 4:30 p.m.

The First Shot Ceremony is open to the public and children are welcome to attend. The event is a welcoming celebration for guests, participants, volunteers and staff to kick off the 2023 National Matches. The ceremony kicks off a two-month-long schedule of rifle and pistol competition that has featured the best marksmen and women at Camp Perry since 1907. CMP’s Chairman & CEO, Gerald O’Keefe, will address the First Shot assembly, as one of the highlights of the day.

Scheduled activities also include a flyover from a WWII B-25 bomber, Georgie’s Gal, courtesy of Port Clinton’s Liberty Aviation Museum. The aircraft will make passes above the grandstands before the start of the festivities, followed in formation by a WWII Navy TBM Avenger fighter-bomber. Pyrotechnic displays, provided by cannonmaster Bob Gillmor, of Old Fort, Ohio, will simulate explosions on the ranges below as the aircraft pass prior to opening remarks. Those sensitive to loud noises are encouraged to bring hearing protection.

The 2023 First Shot speaker will be US Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Green, who will fire the traditional first shot downrange to officially open the National Matches. SFC Green will use Gary Anderson’s M70 bolt-action rifle used to set the 200-yard standing record match in the 1971 National Matches. Anderson is Director of Civilian Marksmanship, Emeritus, and is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and international marksmanship champion. Anderson fired the same rifle to kick off the 2014 First Shot Ceremony.

This year’s color guard will be provided by the Zion-Benton High School Junior ROTC marksmanship team from Zion, IL, supported by Ohio National Guard troops. The junior team will be directed by team coach Master Chief Dan Hackstein. Musical accompaniment will be provided by the Ohio National Guard’s 122nd Army Band. Static military vehicle displays will also be available for viewing on the grounds, presented by Firelands Military Vehicle Club, as well as free antique car rides provided by the Timeless T’s Model T motor vehicle club of Erie County.

Special pricing programs and donations help raise money for wildlife

Eagle, Colorado — QuietKat Electric Bikes, the leader in off-road eBikes and a Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO) brand is proudly working with multiple conservation groups across the nation to enhance habitat that promote healthy wildlife and improve public lands access for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Through strategic partnerships and various banquet programs QuietKat is the leader in donations to these organizations. “Conservation is at the core of QuietKat’s Ethos. Without healthy wildlife populations and access to public lands there is no hunting; without hunting there is no QuietKat.”, stated Logan Holtz, National Sales Manager for QuietKat. “Our partnerships and investment in these conservation groups is one of the many things that make QuietKat unique. Our conservation efforts in tandem with our support for youth hunter programs ensures our way of life will be around for generations to come” 

Currently three groups are capitalizing on the QuietKat banquet program; the National Wild Turkey Foundation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Safari Club International. Each one of these nonprofits work tirelessly to conserve wildlife in a variety of situations, working with local, state, and national agencies and recruiting volunteers to maintain and protect natural environments. Without their efforts much of what we currently have would be threatened. 

QuietKat has also partnered the with The Ruffed Grouse Society to offer a special edition RGS bike where $1000 from every bike sold is donated to habitat restoration! The team at RGS is also implementing QuietKats as utility vehicles in forest restoration projects. Get yours and Donate today, click here.  

QuietKat is also the primary supplier of off-road eBikes to Federal and State Wildlife groups who protect our wildlife resources and enforce our game laws. This includes US Border Patrol Special Operations, US Fish and Wildlife Service and Various State Level Agencies; Game and Parks, Game Commission, Fish and Game, etc. If your agency is interested in getting into a fleet of eBikes you can find more information and contact details by clicking here.

Secure Your Binoculars with Confidence

Today, 100% USA-made brand FORLOH introduces the Method Bino Harness, a technologically advanced accessory designed to provide unparalleled protection and convenience for your optics. With its durable, waterproof fabric and advanced engineering, this harness is the ultimate solution for outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable gear to safeguard their binoculars.

Crafted with a focus on functionality and ease of use, the Method Bino Harness incorporates a forward opening design, enabling true one-handed operation. The magnetic “snap” closure ensures effortless retrieval of your optics, allowing you to stay focused on the surroundings. The forward opening flap also creates a fully enclosed pouch, effectively preventing moisture and debris from entering and compromising the clarity of your optics.

The slim and low-profile design of the Method Bino Harness is constructed using a lightweight yet incredibly durable 210d double-sided diamond ripstop 100% Nylon fabric, which is both waterproof and resilient. The bino pocket is equipped with a secure bino leash, complete with a quick detach toggle, ensuring that your binoculars stay securely in place. Additionally, multiple Molle attachment points provide versatility for adding rangefinder and accessory pouches (sold separately), allowing you to customize the harness to suit your specific needs. The easy-access padded cell phone pocket adds further convenience and functionality to this exceptional gear.

The Method Bino Harness offers unparalleled versatility in attachment options. It can be used as a standalone accessory or seamlessly integrated with our Method Pack System, CX Lite Frame, or The One Daypack, providing you with a comprehensive and adaptable gear solution.

Fairfax, Va. – The National Rifle Association of America is excited to announce that the NRA World Shooting Championship, presented by Walther Arms, will take place at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, April 4 – 6, 2024. Being held for the seventh time, the NRA World Shooting Championship is the ultimate all-encompassing tournament which crowns the undisputed “World Shooting Champion” from amateur and professional shooters. Over $250,000 in cash and prizes are available to the field of competitors, with $25,000 awarded to the World Shooting Champion and $1,000 going to the winner of each stage of competition. The NRA, match sponsors, and the state of Indiana are again showing their continued commitment to supporting competitive shooting and the Second Amendment.

“NRA’s storied history of organizing and executing premier shooting competitions will continue next spring as top shooters convene in Indiana for the NRA World Shooting Championship,” said Joseph P. DeBergalis, Jr., executive director of NRA General Operations. “Competitors of every background and skill level, whether a professional or amateur shooter, will be challenged through a variety of shooting disciplines with the goal of being declared the ‘World’s Greatest Shooter.’ NRA is excited for the return of this highly popular championship, and we are grateful for the support from Walther Arms and our partners in the state of Indiana.”

Indiana’s first lady, Janet Holcomb, will help kick-off this historic event and will be joined by executives from Walther Arms, NRA officials and board members, and Indiana State Rifle and Pistol Association President Charlie Hiltunen.

“The NRA World Shooting Championship is the ultimate challenge for competitors in any shooting discipline, and I was absolutely thrilled to learn that Indiana will play host in 2024,” said Janet Holcomb, the First Lady of the State of Indiana. “Camp Atterbury continues to expand its facilities and capacity for events of this nature, making it the perfect location for this elite competition. I know for certain that spectators, and competitors from around the globe, will be greeted with two things; an immensely challenging course of fire, and the Hoosier Hospitality that is the trademark of our great state.”

“The Indiana State Rifle and Pistol Association is proud to be a part of the NRA World Shooting Championship, which is one of the greatest competitive shooting events in the world,” said Charlie Hiltunen, Indiana State Rifle & Pistol Association president and NRA board member. “NRA and ISRPA, the state affiliate of the NRA, working with the state of Indiana, Indiana National Guard, and our amazing shooting competition and youth shooting sports community are laying the foundation for establishing Indiana as the Shooting Sports Capital of the World!”

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The Big Sky Forestry Initiative Kickoff event took place June 8 at the Rockin’ TJ Ranch in Bozeman, Montana, celebrating the new collaborative, co-developed by the National Wild Turkey Federation and the USDA Forest Service.

The Big Sky Forestry Initiative aims to address several critical objectives. These include reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires, enhancing wildlife habitat, ensuring clean water sources, preserving access to recreational opportunities and reducing wildfire risk for communities in wildland areas.

“A special thanks goes out to the dedicated conservationists who attended the Big Sky Forestry Initiative Kickoff event this past week in Bozeman, Montana,” NWTF co-CEO Jason Burckhalter said. “We are extremely excited about this collaborative initiative that will, among other things, help create healthy and resilient forests and watersheds that are better prepared for future wildfires through the creation of conditions in which fires burn with less intensity and affect fewer acres.”

Dinner was provided for attendees, and following the meal, Chris Savage, Forest Service renewable resources director, delivered a presentation highlighting details of the Big Sky Forestry Initiative. He provided attendees with in-depth details concerning the organizations involved, their core functions and their strategic plans for initiating sustainable efforts in Montana.

“Our first Big Sky Forestry Initiative event was a great success,” Savage said. “The Northern Region of the Forest Service appreciates the NWTF’s efforts to hold this fundraiser. The dollars raised will go toward the implementation of some critical projects in Montana. We look forward to working with NWTF on future efforts.” 

Flint, Mich —The Inaugural Flint Area Get Youth Outdoors Day, Saturday, June 10, drew more than 90 eager and excited youth, along with their parents or guardians, to the Bluegill Boat Launch on Mott Lake near Flint, Michigan.

Hosted by the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA), United Auto Workers Local 659 and the Genesee County Parks and Recreation Commission (GCPRC), in partnership with the Skuta Outdoor Alliance, Flint River Watershed Coalition, Pheasants Forever and National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the free community event offered children and adults alike a hands-on learning experience in fishing, air rifle shooting, kayaking, dog training, wild turkey calling and more during the free community outreach event.

“It was an incredible day,” says Duane Ballard, Local 659 Financial Secretary and Flint Area Get Youth Outdoors Day coordinator. “For a first-time event, we had a fantastic turnout and amazing help from our group of volunteers.”

Admission to the park and parking was free, he adds, and each child received a free rod-and-reel, courtesy of the USA. They then learned how to cast a line and land panfish from the lake’s shoreline from 24 UAW Local 659 members and several of their family members who donated their time and skills to coach the young anglers.

“Duane, along with the Genesee County Parks staff, did an amazing job of organizing so many activities for the kids,” says Sam Phipps, USA Conservation Programs Manager. “Besides fishing, they learned about firearm safety, got to shoot BB guns and witnessed trained bird dogs in action with the Pheasants Forever organization. They learned how to paddle a kayak from the people with the Flint River Watershed Coalition and were introduced to wild turkey behavior and vocalization from the folks with the NWTF. They even learned a thing or two about conservation and the game of football from former professional player and USA member Dan Skuta and the Skuta Outdoor Alliance.”

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) today announced the pheasant harvest total from the 2022-2023 season. The traditional season ran from October 15, 2022, to January 31, 2023. During this season, hunters harvested an estimated 1,158,000 birds.

“South Dakota is the greatest state in the country to pheasant hunt,” said Kevin Robling, GFP Secretary. “The harvest numbers show exactly why: hunters are going to find abundant birds across the state all season long.”

Hunter reports throughout the 2022 season spoke to this abundance of birds, and the harvest numbers support their claims. The 2022 season saw the highest harvest since 2016 and was 10% higher than the past 10-year average. These numbers translate to excellent bags for hunters, with averages at 9 pheasants per hunter for the 2022 season.

South Dakota’s claim to the greatest state to pheasant hunt is supported by these pheasants per hunter numbers. While surrounding states generally see harvest rates of 3 to 6 birds per hunter, South Dakota routinely sees harvest rates around 9 pheasants per hunter, such as in 2022.

South Dakota’s focus on habitat and public access have led to a high quantity of birds across the state, ample areas to target them, and overall good hunting conditions.

BELLEVUE, WA – The Second Amendment Foundation today filed a challenge of Pennsylvania’s promulgated firearms regulation and its enforcement by the Pennsylvania State Police and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, which includes warrantless searches. 

SAF is joined by Shot Tec, LLC and a private citizen, Grant Schmidt. They are represented by attorneys Joshua Prince and Dillon Harris, Civil Rights Defense Firm, of Bechtelsville, Pa. Defendants are Col. Christopher Paris, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and Montgomery County Sheriff Sean Kilkenny, in their official capacities. The action was filed in the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania.

The petition challenges Col. Paris and the PSP’s “interpretation, implementation and enforcement” of the firearms regulation “which is being enforced” by Kilkenny, according to the court filing. The petition alleges that Sheriff Kilkenny “has implemented a policy…which he contends, based on the PSP’s promulgation and implementation of (the regulation) permit him, in the absence of probable cause and a warrant and in violation of…the Pennsylvania Constitution, to come into those…homes or business.”

Plaintiffs further assert this inspection enables the sheriff to impose sanctions against holders of state licenses to sell firearms “for not having ‘safe storage’” in the event of an emergency when the PSP has “failed to promulgate any regulations addressing what constitute ‘safe storage’ or sufficient safeguards…when the General Assembly only delegated to the PSP the ability to establish such standards.”

“The State Assembly has never enacted a law allowing for warrantless searches of licensees, but the state police promulgated a regulation requiring licensees to submit to such searches, which are now planned by the sheriff’s department,” said SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “We believe there are grave constitutional issues involved in this scheme, particularly when an administrative agency simply waives an individual’s constitutional rights by implementing a regulation without any framework from the legislature. Equally troubling is the Sheriff’s assertion that he would revoke a license from and individual asserting their right to be free from unlawful searches and seizures. We have filed this petition to ensure constitutional rights are respected.”

New task force would focus on the complex issue of sharks increasingly consuming hooked fish before they can be landed

On Monday, June 12, 2023, U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (R-Va.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Garret Graves (R-La.) and Marc Veasey (D-Tex.) introduced the Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research, Knowledge and Enhanced Dialogue (SHARKED) Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation will start to address the increasing challenge of shark depredation, which occurs when a shark eats or damages a hooked fish before an angler can reel in their catch.

In general, the possibility of depredation occurring is accepted as a natural part of fishing. However, in recent years the frequency of shark depredation has increased rapidly in many parts of the country, especially along the Atlantic coast, the southeastern United States and the western Pacific. The causes are generally recognized to be increasing fishing activity, increasing shark abundance and depredation becoming a more frequently learned behavior.

If enacted, the bill would establish a task force comprised of fisheries managers and shark experts responsible for improving coordination and communication across the fisheries management community on shark depredation and identifying research priorities and funding opportunities. The bill would be the first step towards mitigating shark depredation nationally and building foundational knowledge that can be used to improve future management, education and research actions.

“Sharks are a vital part of our ocean ecosystems, but in many parts of the country shark depredation is becoming an increasing problem that is not just an inconvenience, but rather is completely disrupting fishing,” said ASA Vice President of Government Affairs Mike Leonard. “These conflicts are bad for fish, fishermen and sharks. This is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires a dedicated task force to bring overdue attention to the issue.”

The Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) prepares for its National Championships slated for July 5th – 15th at the Cardinal Center in Marengo, Ohio, with the added momentum from a significant boost in registrations in 2023.

Some 3,600+ athletes from over 313 teams and 34 states have committed to over 10,000 registrations so far at this year’s competition. The breadth of this ten-day event will translate to over 2 million competition targets alone, with tens of thousands more being shot in side events, such as the last competitor standing competition that saw over 700 athletes compete at least year. The SCTP’s scoring and registration system has held up flawlessly and continues to get teams athletes squadded for Nationals events, including a team-squadded Make A Break competition, featuring an impressive offering of prizes from some of SCTP’s industry sponsors.

“We are extremely overwhelmed with this years interest in our National Championships!” exclaimed SCTP National Director and SSSF Co-President, Tom Wondrash. “The outpouring of interest along with the many new sponsors and partners will make this year’s Nationals one of the best ever and yet another record-breaking year for SCTP!” “Additionally, 154 SCTP athletes from 25 states will receive scholarships this year due to the generous support of our sponsors and partners! We couldn’t do this alone and we appreciate each and every one of them for believing in the great things we are doing for our youth!”

The SCTP is the only Industry-started youth shooting sports program in the world, established by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) in 2001. Since then, Industry has widely supported the SCTP’s ever-growing youth development program, realizing that the youth are the future of this great sport. The SCTP has been extremely thankful for the united Industry support throughout its 13-year history, and thanks them now for their continued belief in getting kids involved in the clay target sports! Starting in 2001 with just a few hundred athletes to over 24,000 athletes and coaches involved today, the organization is confident its sponsors see the value in youth shooting sports provided by the SCTP!

About the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation
The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) is 501(c)(3) public charity responsible for all aspects of the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) and Scholastic Action Shooting Program (SASP) across the United States. The SCTP and SASP are youth development programs in which adult coaches and other volunteers use shooting sports to teach and to demonstrate sportsmanship, responsibility, honesty, ethics, integrity, teamwork, and other positive life skills.

Silencer Central, America’s largest silencer dealer, is proud to offer the fastest barrel threading service in the Nation. The unique service allows customers to simply strip their rifle down to a barreled action for easy handling, while Silencer Central handles the rest.

“In just three steps, our team of certified machinists will thread your barrels according to your order form specifications, add a thread protector and ship your threading order back to you,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. “We’re proud to offer this elite service to our customers. We complete over 5,000 threaded barrels per year and will continue to offer the most innovative products and services in the game.”

Thanks to Silencer Central’s state-of-the-art, in-house commercial lathe (CNC), firearm enthusiasts can ship their gun to Silencer Central or drop it directly at its Sioux Falls, S.D. headquarters for threading. Silencer Central offers a 360-shipping service so you can easily and safely take care of shipping your rifle to and from its facility, a free thread protector for all barrels and a padded gun case. Each caliber is carefully threaded to meet the highest specifications with a certified, full-time gunsmith on staff.

“From the company that made the process of owning a suppressor easy, from working with the ATF to getting the product to you, Silencer Central even has a barrel threading process and threads a ton of barrels each year, which ensures precision,” said Ike Eastman, president of Eastmans’ Publishing, Inc. “This made it so easy to have my rifles suppressor-ready!” 

More than 18 years ago, Silencer Central began offering customers a more simplified process for safely and legally obtaining a firearm sound suppressor. Today, the industry leading company plays an important role in the firearms landscape and remains committed to working tirelessly on behalf of hunters, sport shooters and firearms owners everywhere.

Outdoor Edge, the leader in replaceable blade knife technology, continues to expand on their line of Razors with the addition of the new 2.2-inch RazorMini. This compact size is perfect for every day carry and is now available in a new stylish new color with complimentary blade and blade holder finishes steel blades.

The 2.2-inch blade is made from Japanese 420J2 stainless steel that has been heat-treated and hand-finished to achieve a long-lasting razor-sharp edge. When it finally dulls, no worries – you can replace it quickly, easily, and safely with the push of a button thanks to the patented Outdoor Edge RazorSafe® system that features a flush mount blade release button. The blade is held securely in place with durable 420J2 stainless steel providing the strength of a traditional knife, and the knife handle is made from rugged ABS polymer with stainless steel liners for both long life and a no-slip grip. The RaxorMini has an overall length is just 5.1 inches and compatible with all 220 blades.

Two replacement blades are included with each knife. The new RazorMini currently shipping and is available at retailers nationwide and conveniently online at www.outdooredge.com for a suggested retail price of $22.95. For more information on the 2.2-inch RazorMini, as well as the full line of Outdoor Edge products, call toll-free 1-800-477-3343; email [email protected]; or visit https://www.outdooredge.com.

What do the numbers mean?
New for 2023, you will notice all RazorSafe blades and blade holders are marked with a number. This is put in place to ensure you purchase and pack the correct blades for your next hunt. Packaging will not only have the number system but will also have a color-coded system matching knives and blades – just another way to ensure that everyone is getting an accurate match of knife and replaceable blades. Want to learn more about our RazorSafe System? You can visit https://www.outdooredge.com/pages/razorsafe.

2.2-inch RazorMini Specifications:
Blade Steel: Japanese 420J2 Stainless
Blade Holder: Black-Oxide coated 420J2 stainless steel
Handle: ABS Polymer
Blade Length: 2.2 inches
OAL: 5.1 inches