Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Stay up-to-date on hunting, fishing and camping products, trends and news.

TrueTimber® Hosts Fall Bow Sweepstakes with PSE Archery®

TrueTimber announces a fall archery sweepstake with partner PSE Archery to give away one STINGER MAX compound bow decorated in TrueTimber Strata camo and a $500 gift card to the TrueTimber online store. The giveaway begins today and will be hosted on the official TrueTimber Instagram and Facebook pages. One grand prize winner will be randomly selected following the promotion period which ends November 19, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

“I think our bow hunting fans are going to jump all over this awesome chance to win some great gear,” said TrueTimber CEO Rusty Sellars. “PSE has been a longtime partner of ours and we are thrilled they jumped in to sweeten the pot here with such an awesome bow. This STINGER MAX comes ready to hunt out of the box. Pair that with a full new lineup of TrueTimber gear and one lucky hunter is going to be set heading into the woods this fall.” 

To enter, fans need to follow both TrueTimber and PSE Archery on Instagram or Facebook in addition to tagging by commenting at least one other person in any of the entry posts on TrueTimber’s Instagram or Facebook page. The entry post will go live on the TrueTimber Facebook and Instagram pages today at 6:00 p.m. EST. For an additional chance to win, fans can enter on both platforms.

One of the all-time best-selling bows ever, the PSE STINGER MAX is a true American classic. Re-engineered with shorter limbs and a bigger cam, the STINGER MAX is the perfect bow for hunting from a tree stand or blind. The SS cam delivers a smoother draw with 80% let-off and the extremely adjustable draw weight and length range make this bow perfect for a variety of archers. To get a first-hand look at the PSE STINGER MAX in TrueTimber Strata camo, fans can watch this video on the TrueTimber YouTube page.

This giveaway is open to continental U.S. residents only and entrants must be age 18 or older. Other restrictions apply. For more information and additional coverage on the giveaway, fans are encouraged to continue following the TrueTimber and PSE on their social media channels. To see full terms and conditions, please visit: TrueTimber.com/Giveaway.


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TRENDS IN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: LANCE CAMPER AND NO DIRTY WATER PARTNER TO BRING INNOVATIVE PRODUCT TO GROWING MARKET OF OFF-GRID CAMPERS

Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) SHOW, Las Vegas, NV, November 2-5

The trend toward outdoor adventure and overlanding activities has accelerated in the last few years. A new influx of campers and more experienced RVers are going off-grid, an endeavor that requires a different set of skills and equipment.

One barrier to this style of outdoor adventure has historically been the availability of reliable drinking water. Campers and overlanders spend considerable time and effort hauling water to their adventures. With its new Enduro teardrop adventure prototype towable, Lance directly addressed this growing market and trend by listening to campers and building in the most requested features.

Lance Camper’s new Enduro teardrop adventure prototype towable addresses this issue with an innovative on board portable advanced water purification system. The Enduro features a bathroom and shower combination and an ultra-compact, high performing off-grid No Dirty Water (NDW) MRX water purification system. Other Enduro features include:

100% Composite ConstructionInterior Shower and Cassette ToiletSleeps Up To Six Via King Size Bed, Two Bunk Beds & Available Roofnest Flacon XL Rooftop Tent100% Self Sustaining Off Grid Capability: Two 190 Watt Solar Panels, Two 100AH Lithium Batteries, 1500W Inverter, 40 Gallon Fresh Water Tank, 26 Gallon Grey Water TankNo Dirty Water MRX Mobile Water Purification System12V Zero Breeze Mark 2 Air ConditionerCustom Designed Interior Featuring: Ultraleather Fabric, Infinity Flooring, Bamboo Table, Expad Mattress & Rumpl ComforterPass Through Interior Storage BayRotopaX Exterior Water & Fuel Storage

Instead of a traditional production line process, Lance is considering a flexible, consumer-centric production hubs that ensure disciplined focus by technicians who care about integrating efficiency and building consumer confidence in their products.


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This Week on HSCF’s “Hunting Matters” Radio & Podcast:Scott Leysath, The Sporting Chef

 Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) and “Hunting Matters” welcomes Scott Leysath, The Sporting Chef

Scott Leysath, better known as “The Sporting Chef,” has spent a lifetime developing his own brand of fish and game cooking mastery. As someone whose passion and profession are one in the same, Chef Leysath is undoubtedly among the best in the business. He’s a “regular” guy, not a classically trained chef, who sincerely wants anything with fur, fins and feathers taste as good as it gets.

In 2002, he launched his first TV show, the original “Sporting Chef” and eventually joined forces with veteran outdoor host, Donny McElvoy, on the “HuntFishCook” show on Sportsman Channel. January 2014 marked the revival of “The Sporting Chef” show, but with a very different format that includes a broad range of pro chefs, lodge cooks and others who share their tips on how to prepare fish and game as well as general knowledge topics for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Scott is also the host and producer of the Dead Meat TV show on Outdoor and Sportsman channels. The show features less sought-after fish and game and the people who hunt, fish, trap, spear and catch them. Leysath’s Sporting Chef Productions and partner 4Mile Post Productions launched The Fishmonger show on Outdoor Channel. It’s about the challenges and lifestyles of the American commercial fishing industry.

Leysath travels the globe, making personal appearances at outdoor shows, trade shows and corporate events. He entertains audiences with what the calls “short attention span cooking”, throwing fish and game into a skillet in blazing speed. He has been the cooking columnist for the Ducks Unlimited Magazine since 2007 and Houston Safari Club Foundation’s Hunter’s Horn magazine since 2016.  He has also contributed to several other outdoor publications for over 20 years.  He lives in Northern California with his wife and two setters. He’s an avid hunter and angler who prefers a homecooked meal over high-dollar fine dining fare. 


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Gamakatsu® Provides Innovative Storage For Anglers on the Go

Anglers have trusted Gamakatsu® to provide the most critical link between them and their quarry for years. They can also rely on the innovative manufacturer to provide secure storage for all of their gear. A complete line of bags provides plenty of organization for a variety of outings.

Gamakatsu’s new water-resistant Hybrid Duffel Backpack offers 110 liters of space to take gear wherever anglers may roam. The innovative pack can be carried in three different ways, thanks to the removable backpack straps, shoulder strap, or side-carrying handle. All straps are padded to keep anglers comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded. The large main opening provides easy access to the pack’s contents. The large, zippered internal pocket and zippered mesh pocket inside the main compartment opening keeps everything organized. A separate, external zippered-access compartment keeps dirty clothes or gear separated. The large exterior zippered storage pocket and MOLLE-type webbing for attaching and securing gear further add to the organizing potential. The pack folds into itself for compact storage when not in use.

For those that prefer to roll along, Gamakatsu offers the Rolling Gear Duffel. The pair of sturdy wheels allow for easy transport of 90 liters of belongings. When anglers decide to pick it up, use the adjustable, removable padded shoulder strap or padded handles to carry in comfort. An external zippered pocket and a large inner zippered pocket keep things tidy. Water-resistant construction keeps the elements at bay, so anglers won’t have to worry about rain clouds or rough boat rides. A convenient carrying case allows compact storage when anglers are not on the road or at the lake.

When anglers don’t have a ton of stuff to tote around, the new water-resistant 30-liter Gear Duffel would be the best to pack up. The large main opening is secured with heavy-duty zippers for easy access, with an external zippered pocket that keeps oft-needed items at the ready. A separate, outer zippered access compartment for dirty clothes or gear keeps anglers clean stuff clean. An adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap lets anglers carry stuff hands-free, though the hook and loop fastener on the main carrying handles works as well. 

Gamakatsu has a gear bag designed for all anglers, whether hitting the fishing hole for a couple of hours or a week. And they’re all built with Gamakatsu’s dedication to quality, so anglers know they’ll perform as well as their legendary hooks. 





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Delta Waterfowl Welcomes Bill Dougan as Regional Events Director for Western Canada

BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA — Delta Waterfowl is pleased to announce the addition of veteran waterfowl hunter and conservationist Bill Dougan as its new regional director for western Canada. He’ll spearhead the growth of Delta membership, events fundraising and volunteer participation in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.

Dougan is looking forward to his new role as an opportunity to repay some of what his lifelong waterfowling experience has meant to him.

“I am very excited to be joining Delta Waterfowl and being able to give back to my waterfowl heritage,” Dougan said. “As a duck and goose hunter for 52 years and with 10 grandchildren who will be following in my footsteps, it is important to me to help enhance Delta’s footprint in western Canada. The Duck Hunters Organization is the future of waterfowling.”

His appointment as western Canada’s regional director is a continuation of Dougan’s belief in the pillars and the mission of The Duck Hunters Organization. He takes pride in having played a major role in 2003, along with his friend Kevin Arsenault, in forming the second-ever Delta Waterfowl chapter in Canada. He designed and created the Delta Waterfowl mentorship program on Prince Edward Island, which through the years has introduced thousands of newcomers to Maritime Canada’s unique waterfowl hunting heritage.

“I believe the future of waterfowl hunting is our youth and that’s why I created the program,” Dougan said. “I have also been involved with the Youth Waterfowl Workshop in Prince Edward Island as the target shooting coordinator and goose and duck calling instructor. It is among the largest one-day youth waterfowl workshops in North America, with more than 120 kids taking part every year.”


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Toyota Becomes the Official Mobility Partner of CLASH Daytona Event

November 4, 2021

DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Today, CLASH Endurance is excited to announce a partnership naming Toyota Motor North America as its premier sponsor and the official Mobility Partner of CLASH Endurance. For CLASH Daytona taking place December 3-5, Toyota will be offering a variety of unique activation elements to further enhance the CLASH Event experience including an interactive Expo booth and an array of Toyota vehicles on display and on-track including the RAV4, Highlander, Camry, GR Supra and Tacoma. 

‘Whether it’s maneuvering the world-renowned Daytona International Speedway with a professional driver in the track-ready Toyota Supra GR or Camry or visiting the Trail Mix Station out of the back of a Toyota Highlander and much more, guests have many exciting opportunities to experience Toyota while as CLASH,” said Steve Appelbaum, National Manager, Sponsorship Integration, Toyota Motor North America. 

CLASH Endurance is also thrilled to have such a respected automotive brand on board, “CLASH  athletes are driven, inspirational and always up for the next challenge. We believe this collaboration is well-aligned with Toyota’s top-tier sports partnerships, we couldn’t be more excited to share Toyota’s momentum at our upcoming CLASH Event,” said CLASH Endurance CEO, Bill Christy.

ABOUT CLASH ENDURANCE


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Millennium’s Versatile G100 and G200 Shooting Chairs: The Ultimate in Stealth and Comfort

Avid hunters know that staying quiet and comfortable is the key to success. Whether you are hunkered down waiting for the birds to come or have your eyes on ultra-scan mode for a big whitetail, sitting stealthily is paramount to staying in the field longer and being successful.

Millenium’s G100 Shooting Chair was designed by hunters for hunters. The lightweight, portable engineering allows you to take this chair on the go or leave it in the blind to slip into the next morning. 

Aluminum construction keeps the chair lightweight, and the legs and back fold in for portability. Carry it in one hand, sling it over your shoulder, or attach it to your pack to hunt game on the go or get farther into the backcountry. 

Comfort was at the forefront of the development, and the ComfortMax fabric is breathable for those hot days and provides plenty of support no matter what the weather is. 

Hunters seldom find level ground to set up on, but the G100 has legs that extend from 13 to 18 inches, allowing the chair to be leveled and remain sturdy with three solid contact points. 




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Stop poachers: Report violators to Wildlife Crimestoppers

LINCOLN, Neb. – A multiyear poaching case – the largest in Nebraska – wrapped up in 2020. More than 32 people were prosecuted for their involvement in the illegal take of the state’s wildlife.

Reporting wildlife violations stops poachers. People who report hunting, fishing or other wildlife violations to Nebraska Wildlife Crimestoppers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Nebraska Wildlife Crimestoppers is a cooperative wildlife law enforcement program sponsored by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Wildlife Protectors Association. It offers rewards for information resulting in arrests for game law violations.

Game and Parks provides a toll-free hotline, investigative operations and public information. The Wildlife Protectors, a group of concerned citizens, handles fundraising and reward payment. Rewards will be paid in cases where charges are filed. The Wildlife Protectors Association board decides the amount of each reward under guidelines set forth in the organization bylaws.

To report a violation:


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Yamaha Supports Land Access With $350,000 in Grants for First Half of 2021

Yamaha’s Partnership with Recreate Responsibly Coalition Expands to Promote Proper Use

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) second quarter grants, totaling more than $115,000. The powersports industry’s leading land access program has contributed more than $350,000 in 2021 alone, delivering crucial funding to grassroots efforts across the country, aiding in protecting and improving access to public land for outdoor recreation. Projects in the current funding cycle support the development of new off-road riding areas and popular trail systems requiring maintenance to remain open and safe for ATV, Side-by-Side (SxS), motorcycle, and snowmobile enthusiasts.

“After over a dozen years and $4.5 million donated, Yamaha is steadfast in making our efforts to support powersports enthusiasts and outdoor recreation,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “Ensuring individuals working in resource-limited areas have what they need to maintain and improve entry to public land for recreation is why the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative exists, and we’re continuing to put in the time and energy to address situations posing a threat to everyone’s ability to get out and enjoy outdoor spaces.”

The second quarter 2021 Yamaha OAI grants totaling more than $115,000 were awarded to the following organizations:

Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area:  Northumberland, PACity of Elephant Butte, New MexicoNorthern Timber Cruisers:  Millinocket, MERange Riders ATV Club:  Nashwauk, MNStay The Trail:  Arvada, COTwin Cities Trail Riders:  St. Paul, MN


Yamaha OAI is also expanding its partnership with the Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC), delivering signage to public land managers seeking to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use while enjoying trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for the signs funded by OAI to RRC can simply complete a form at the following link:  Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.


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German Precision Optics Expands its GPOTAC™ FFP Scope Line With The New 4.5-27x50i Riflescope

German Precision Optics (GPO) has entered the high magnification first focal plane scope market with its new premium tactical riflescope, the GPOTAC 4.5-27x50i FFP. Designed for professional use, as well as shooters and hunters who demand the very best in long distance and tactical shooting, the 4.5-27x50i FFP mates superior materials and meticulous manufacturing processes and tolerances to produce a riflescope on par with the world’s finest.

This scope’s optical features are superb, using a 50mm double HD objective lens system for enhanced resolution coupled with the GPObright high transmission lens coatings. A 34mm main tube maximizes optical performance while supporting incremental elevation adjustment capabilities. It is crafted from a solid, one-piece dust-proof, waterproof, nitrogen-filled body for ultimate strength and durability. An illuminated mil-spec LRpro magnifying reticle powered with the GPO iCONTROL illumination system will assist the shooter in placing the perfect shot in even the lowest light conditions. Custom designed turrets are mil-based and include a ZERO-STOP system for those shooters sure to be dialing for their distance. Also provided is an adapted magnification system throw lever for ease of use in every shooting situation.

The 4.5-27x50i GPOTAC FFP comes with a throw lever, cleaning cloth, see-through bikini ocular and objective lens scope covers, and an extra CR2032 battery. All GPO products purchased in the USA include the GPO, USA’s Spectacular Lifetime Warranty. Full details on this industry-changing warranty can be found at www.gpo-usa.com. It’s currently available at both retailers nationwide and at www.gpo-usa.com.

MSRP for the 4.5-27x50i GPOTAC FFP is $1499.99. More information is available at www.gpo-usa.com or by calling 844-MY BINOS (844-692-4667.)

About GPO USA
German Precision Optics was founded on the premise that design, engineering and quality management is 100 percent controlled in Germany to its strictest standards, yet products can be produced at some of the largest production facilities around the world. This unique corporate structure allows GPO to offer the highest quality products with better features at a significantly better price. The company is 100-percent confident that all of its products will not only function perfectly but will exceed all expectations. Therefore, GPO, USA has created an industry-leading Spectacular Lifetime Warranty. With outstanding professional service, GPO USA will take care of its products before, during, and after the purchase at no charge—EVER. Founded in 2016, GPO has its US headquarters in Richmond, VA. For more information on GPO USA visit www.gpo-usa.com or call 844-MY BINOS (844-692-4667.)


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Hunter success highly variable on Nebraska’s pheasant opener

LINCOLN, Neb. – Bird dogs and blaze orange returned to the fields across rural Nebraska on Oct. 30, the state’s season opener for pheasant quail and partridge.

According to field reports, hunter success for pheasants was highest in the Northeast (0.62 birds per hunter), with some of the better reports coming from the northernmost counties in the district. Pheasant hunters also had relatively good success on public lands in the Rainwater Basin region in south-central and southeastern Nebraska – with many groups averaging more than 0.5 birds per hunter.

Further west, drought conditions appear to have limited production this year as many hunters reported seeing fewer pheasants than in recent years. Harvest success was highly variable among parties in the Southwest and Panhandle regions but below average overall, at 0.37 and 0.16 birds per hunter, respectively.

Most hunters were observed on publicly accessible lands such as wildlife management areas, waterfowl production areas, and private lands enrolled in the Open Fields and Waters Program.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff contacted 926 upland bird hunters while making bag checks during the opening weekend. Those hunters harvested 338 pheasants, 79 quail, and nine prairie grouse. Hunter success for pheasants averaged 0.37 birds per hunter, slightly below that observed in 2020 (0.48) and 2019 (0.56).


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CMP Adds New Pistol Series to Western Games Schedule in 2022

PHOENIX, Ariz. – The Civilian Marksmanship Program’s (CMP) Western CMP Games and Highpower Matches are back at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in 2022 with all of the classic favorites and an entire lineup of new ones to enjoy. This recreational marksmanship event will bring a week of friendly competition and educational opportunities to the desert sands of Arizona on March 11-20, 2022, and is open to anyone with an interest in the sport of marksmanship.

The Western CMP Matches offer a little something for everyone. Though traditionally comprised of only rifle events like the Garand, Springfield, Vintage Military, Modern Military, Rimfire Sporter, Carbine and Vintage Sniper, the 2022 event will now feature four days of rousing pistol competition. Such matches added to the schedule include the Pistol 2700, .22 Rimfire Pistol, EIC Pistol, 1911 and Military & Police Service Pistol.

Those wanting to learn more about the discipline may sign up for the Pistol Marksmanship 101 Course, which teaches firearm fundamentals and competition techniques in a one-on-one setting in the classroom and on the range.

In 2022, the Western CMP Games will feature a lineup of pistol matches for the first time.

“The Pistol 101 class isn’t just for the Novice pistol shooter. With the way the class is structured, you not only get the bones of pistol shooting geared towards that brand new shooter, an accomplished shooter may find some new takes on current techniques that could spark that jump to the next level. Each student receives a thumb drive with the class slides on it along with several hours of on the range Q&A and discussion.” said Jim Henderson, CMP pistol coordinator.

Like pistol, a Rifle Marksmanship 101 Course will also be held. Both courses are conducted by certified CMP and industry professionals and will conclude with a first-hand look into the world of competitive shooting in a true M9 or M16 match. Firearms and ammunition will be provided for each class, making it ideal for those completely new to the sport. Don’t forget, experienced marksmen looking to hone their skills may also sign up for the course!




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Winchester Receives 2021 Ammo of the Year Award from Guns & Ammo

Guns & Ammo announced Winchester as the winner of its highly coveted 2021 Ammo of the Year Award for its innovative new cartridge, 6.8 Western.  Each year the editors, contributors and staff at Guns & Ammo (G&A) evaluate all the new ammunition products that have been brought to market.  

“Our goal with each new product introduction is to find a meaningful improvement or new innovation that better equips the Winchester consumer,” said Matt Campbell, vice president of marketing and sales.  “A lot of hard work and innovative thinking contributed to the 6.8 Western cartridge and we’re extremely grateful that the experts at Guns & Ammo recognized our brand as a leader in cartridge development.”

With long-range shooting and hunting interest growing rapidly, engineers at Winchester and Browning were both seeking a solution that could offer magnum performance with a modern high BC projectile, yet chamber in a short action rifle; offering lighter guns and shorter bolt-throw.  The 6.8 Western was designed from the ground up to be the ultimate long-range cartridge that is capable in any big-game hunting scenario and a great fit for those who enjoy long-range target shooting.

HEAVIER BULLET WEIGHTS 
than 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC & 270 WSM
MORE ENERGY
than 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC & 7mm Rem Mag
LESS RECOIL
than 300 WSM, 300 Win Mag & 300 PRC
LONG, HEAVY BULLETS 
ideal for Big Game Hunting & Long-Range Precision Shooting
SHORT ACTION 
for fast cycling, high accuracy & reduced rifle weight

About Winchester Ammunition

A world leader in delivering innovative products, Winchester is The American Legend, a brand built on integrity, hard work and a deep focus on its loyal customers. Learn more about the history of Winchester by visiting Winchester.com or connecting with us on Facebook at Facebook.com/WinchesterOfficial.



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Troy Livesay Takes Third Overall in Great Lakes Regional Precision Rifle Series

Elite Tactical Pro Shooter Achieves 4th Place Finish at Finale, and 3rd Overall for Season

Bushnell®, an industry leader in performance optics, is celebrating pro shooter Troy Livesay’s strong finish at the PRS Great Lakes Regional Finale, which took place October 23 at Turkey Creek Rifle Club in Pleasureville, Kentucky.

Livesay finished fourth at the Finale, as well as third overall for this year’s Great Lakes Regional Series. Throughout the match, Livesay used the new Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR3 scope with G4P reticle.

“The Great Lakes Precision Rifle Series is packed full of talented shooters,” Livesay said. “I’m proud to finish third among them for the 2021 season. Just one mistake or one equipment malfunction will put you out of the running in this group. Big thanks to Bushnell and the Elite Tactical DMR3 – this scope is top notch and I have faith it will perform even in very unfavorable conditions.”

The newly released DMR3 3.5-21×50 FFP and XRS3 6-36×56 FFP scopes feature the most advance Elite Tactical optical system ever. Both the DMR3 and XRS3 come with a high magnification ED Prime objective, as well as fully multi-coated elements, EXO Barrier protection and a proprietary G4P reticle with new reticle element coating. The new coating pushes the limits of the ultrawideband coating system by increasing light transmission by nearly 2% over previous designs. The culmination of these improvements delivers state-of-the-art optical performance in an already proven, durable and reliable package.


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XS Sights Introduces Night Sights for Taurus GX4

XS® Sights, manufacturer of the fastest sights in any light, is now offering a wide variety of its popular night sights for the new Taurus® GX4 micro-compact 9mm pistol. These line extensions are also available for the Taurus G3c.

XS sights give shooters an advantage 24/7 thanks to the company’s proprietary sight technology. XS’s photoluminescent Glow Dot surrounds the tritium vial in the front sight and activates even before the tritium does, giving defensive shooters an edge in any light, day or night.

DXT2 Big Dot

The Big Dot leads the industry in size and has a self-illuminating tritium center surrounded by XS’s photoluminescent Glow Dot technology which drives focus to the front sight. The Big Dot is available in Optic Yellow or Optic Orange. The DXT2 Standard Dot is available in Green. All DXT2 sights feature a V-notch rear with vertical tritium stripe, creating a dot-the-“i” sight picture and eliminating the possibility of confusing the front and rear sights in high-stress situations. 

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The Association Applauds Congress and the White House for Commitment to Conservation

The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (Association) commends Congress and the White House for their continued commitment to improving fish and wildlife habitat and habitat connectivity. By including critical conservation priorities within pending legislative packages, they have once again reaffirmed their commitment to empowering state and federal agencies to conserve and restore healthy habitats and species for future generations.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (HR 3684) will fulfill long-running priorities for the Association and its conservation partners, including the authorization of $350 million in competitive grants for wildlife crossings structures and over $1 billion in funding for hydro connectivity projects and aquatic organism passage. Once enacted, the bill will reauthorize the Sport Fish and Restoration Boating Trust Fund, directing $650 million annually in user-generated fees on fishing equipment and motorboat and small engine fuels to fund restoration of aquatic habitats, provide recreational access, and educate the public on boating safety. In addition, the Abandoned Mine Land Trust Fund will be reauthorized, which is used by states to address billions of dollars in outstanding projects at the center of water quality, public safety, and species health issues.

“This legislation will be a monumental step forward for the future of conservation and America as a whole,” said Tony Wasley, Director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife and President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “Critical programs like the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund are foundational to our ability to responsibly steward fish, wildlife, and their habitats. We thank the champions behind these provisions and the leadership of the House and Senate, as well as the White House, for recognizing that the hunters and anglers who provide the backbone for our system of conservation are vital to our national and local economies.”

Further, the Build Back Better Act (HR 5376) in its current form would enable a multitude of benefits for fish, wildlife, and their habitats by authorizing additional funding for many conservation programs supported by the Association. These include funds for mapping and conserving wildlife corridors, protecting and restoring grassland habitats, and increased resources for projects on National Wildlife Refuge Systems and State Wildlife Management Areas. The bill would also provide funding for marine fisheries and hatcheries as well as address urgent needs for wildfire risk reduction. The Association is also encouraged by Congress’ and the Administration’s recognition of the need for increased funding for coastal resilience among the states, as well as their support for farm bill conservation programs that continue to be successfully implemented by the Department of Agriculture in partnership with state agencies.

“Multi-benefit solutions building on the success of proven conservation strategies are essential to securing public safety and healthy habitats and populations,” said Ron Regan, Executive Director for the Association. “We look forward to continuing to work with both sides of the aisle and the Administration to secure enactment of these provisions and other conservation legislation, including the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act of 2021.”


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Al’s Goldfish Lure Company’s Ice Jigs: A Must for Serious Winter Anglers

Winter is fast approaching, and with it will come an event that a growing number of cold-country anglers anticipate every year – lakes and ponds will freeze over. It’s time to go ice fishing! And smart ice anglers do not head to the lake without a tackle box containing a good selection of the sport’s most effective lures – Al’s Goldfish Lure Company’s Ice Jigs.

The popularity of ice fishing has grown significantly over the past couple of years due to several factors – the pandemic lockdowns and families looking for ways to get their kids outdoors, a budding interest in acquiring and preparing your own food, and the simple fact that few meals are tastier than those prepared around trout, char, walleye, pike, and panfish caught in the frigid waters of winter lakes. And with today’s technological improvements — space-age clothing, electric powered ice augers, reasonably-priced electronic fish finders, even insulated portable shanties – it’s easy to stay toasty warm and comfortable all day, even in frigid conditions.

But it all comes down to catching fish, and that’s where Al’s Ice Jigs come in.

Al’s Goldfish Ice Jig is based on the original Al’s Goldfish lure which is a wobbling spoon design that was developed in 1952 and has been a staple of serious ice anglers for more than six decades. For the Goldfish Ice Jig, the 3/16 oz. lure body is turned upside down with a single J hook off the nose. It can be jigged as is, or with the optional red tag, or paired with a creepy-crawly and the lure body acts as a flasher. With this tried and true lure you will be cleaning fish before you know it.

Al’s Lil’ 49er Ice Jig is a brass spoon with a distinct shape and action, weighing in at 1/4 oz., and measuring 1 3/4-inches long. Anglers watching the lure’s jigging action with sonar will see the lure zigzag erratically in and out of the transducer beam as the lure is pulled up, and observe a pronounced flutter on the drop. Configured for vertical jigging with a treble hook off the nose, the Lil’ 49er is set to catch smaller freshwater species such as panfish, trout, and bass. If you like the shape and action of this lure but want a little bigger action for species such as lake trout, walleye and northern pike, the Lil’ 49er’s big brother –- the Forty Niner  — is an outstanding bait when jigged vertically through ice.


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Stryk Pay Proudly Announces Partnership with Firearms Depot

Stryk Pay today announced a credit card processing partnership with Firearms Depot, a Newberry, Fla.-based retailer that offers an extensive line of firearms, ammunition, optics, firearm parts and accessories. The partnership is effective immediately.

“Stryk Pay has enabled our company to rapidly scale without being concerned about payment processing,” said Jon Faulkner, CEO. “Their next day deposit option streamlines our cash flow so that we can increase our inventory turns and grow our online presence.”

“Our recent partnership with Firearms Depot has allowed our team to implement another secure processing solution in the 2A community. We have been able to exceed this merchant’s needs in their current state, and will continue as they scale their business larger,” said Chase Wheeler, director of merchant services, Stryk Pay.

“We are proud to offer them a business specific solution, with back-end services and redundancies, while still reducing their bottom line. The Stryk Pay team looks forward to long standing partnership with Firearms Depot,” concluded Wheeler.

Stryk Pay was created by Stryk Group USA — the Bozeman, Montana-based impact consulting company serving several leading hunting, fishing, and firearms brands – as a solution to current discriminatory business practices. It’s staffed from top to bottom with people who are endemic shooters, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts with experience in everything from running firearms companies and retail operations for firearms brands to high-risk credit card processing for e-commerce, wholesale, and retail companies. More information about Stryk Pay can be found at https://strykpay.com/. Information on Stryk Group USA can be found at https://strykgroup.com/. More information about Firearms Depot is available at https://firearmsdepot.com/


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Smallmouth Bass In Door County Waters Test Positive For Largemouth Bass Virus

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirms largemouth bass virus in smallmouth bass taken from the bay of Green Bay near Door County.

In September 2021, 14 diseased smallmouth bass were collected from the waters surrounding Door County and examined by DNR fisheries staff. Collected fish had skin wounds that appeared red, ulcerated, and varied in size and location. These skin lesions often had a cream-colored layer of dead tissue in the center of the wound.

Since 2008, smallmouth bass displaying similar skin lesions have been sampled during several outbreaks in Lake Michigan and Green Bay waters. While test results from fish sampled during those episodes had been inconclusive, the virus was detected in all 14 of the diseased fish sampled this year.

Largemouth bass virus has been found throughout the Eastern United States and previously identified in Wisconsin’s Mississippi River Basin. The virus can cause weakness, abnormal swimming, swimbladder over-inflation, reddening and death in largemouth bass populations.

While it is suspected that largemouth bass virus is involved in the development of the skin lesions on the 14 smallmouth bass, little is definitively known about its ability to cause disease or death in the species. DNR staff will continue to monitor smallmouth bass populations and collect additional samples to confirm largemouth bass virus in future outbreaks.


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APEX Ammunition Waterfowl Loads Now Available

APEX Ammunition is now shipping its premium, non-toxic, ultra-high-density Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), TSS / S3 Steel Blend, and S3 Steel Waterfowl loads. 

All APEX Waterfowl loads feature the advanced Tungsten-grade wad system used in the company’s legendary Turkey TSS loads to deliver the tightest patterns and best barrel protection possible. 

Waterfowl TSS

APEX Waterfowl TSS loads are meticulously handloaded for ultimate performance. Made from 18.1 g/cc density tungsten alloy, Tungsten Super Shot is the most versatile and hardest hitting shotshell pellet in existence today. It is denser than Lead (11.34 g/cc), Bismuth (9.8 g/cc), Copper (8.8 g/cc), or Steel (7.84 g/cc), which allows the use of smaller-sized shot and significantly more pellets in TSS loads than other shotshells (No. 9 TSS hits like No. 4 Lead).  More pellets per ounce means a more powerful payload with higher pattern density and superior knockdown power at extended ranges. TSS is also highly effective in sub-gauge shotguns for those who prefer hunting waterfowl with 20-gauge or even 28-gauge guns.

MSRP: $49.99 – $65.99 (per 10 round box)


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