Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

We have gotten in three different pistol cases to be able to show some of the options on the market to secure your pistol while traveling. These are the 3 options we have had the pleasure to test and each device offers a distinct advantage depending upon your needs. We like to think of gun cases in regards to need and how you want to travel with your firearm. Each of these cases provide 3 distinct use cases.

Plano Stealth EVA Pistol Case

This soft sided pistol case can work for both quick trips to the gun range as well as storage in your luggage or in your gun safe especially for short trips. This small lightweight, portable case has the durability of a hard case but is not lockable. The Stealth EVA construction provides structure to hold your firearm without any unnecessary extra bulk. This allows you to slide this small case into larger bags and walk in and out of your vehicle without showing your pistol. This case almost looks like the case you get when you have a fancy set of headphones hiding your weapon in plain sight. The stealth pistol case holds a single handgun and maybe an extra magazine or two. This keeps your gun safe but the case cannot be locked. It’s great for quick transportation and carrying your gun in places where you don’t want to let folks know what is in the case. It’s super easy to throw into your pack and hit the range.

Plano Rustrictor All Weather 2 2-Pistol Case

The Plano Rustrictor AW2 allows you to protect your firearm against rust and corrosion while you are storing your firearm for a long period of time. With an impenetrable case and a dual-stage lockable latches and travel ready protection. This case is rugged, lockable and can be used to travel on airplanes when properly declared and checked. A VCI-infused resin and foam emitter blocks rust and corrosion and the Dri-Loc seal allows you to utilize this case to keep your pistol protected long term. The PLUCK-TO-FIT foam allows you to put in your pistol, magazines and other small items. This makes a great case for long-term storage and travel.

STEELHEAD OUTDOORS LOCK BOX

The STEELHEAD Outdoors Lock Box is a Heavy Duty Pistol box that is perfect for handgun storage at home or locked in to your vehicle. This Lockbox has an optional security cable that allows you to lock this box in to your vehicle and secure your pistol under the seat of your vehicle. It is imperative that traveling with your pistol that you have the most secure lockbox you can afford and you can secure the box in to your vehicle or secure it in your home or even in your hotel room should you need to while traveling. This lockbox is a solid 11 lbs and is 8.5 by 11 inches deep and 3 inches tall. The keylock provides analog security with a lock pick proof multi-sidebar design and a drill resistant body. No one is getting in to this safe without a blowtorch. The Steelhead Outdoors Lock Box is TSA compliant if you need to travel and it is quick and easy to lock in to a rental car or hotel room.

London gunmaker John Rigby & Co. is delighted to announce a significant milestone in its partnership with Habitat for Rhino, a rhino conservation project based in Gamsberg, Namibia. As the world prepares to celebrate World Rhino Day on Friday 22 September, the company is proud to share remarkable news of the project’s recent success in safeguarding the rhino population.

In a heart-warming update from Habitat for Rhino, two rhino calves were born at Gamsberg, bringing renewed hope and optimism to the ongoing conservation efforts. This momentous occasion follows the tragic loss of a young bull named ‘Kirby’ to poaching last year. The resilience of the project is evident as it marks a decade of tireless dedication to conserving these magnificent creatures.

Despite challenges, 10 rhino calves have been born at Gamsberg during this period. While two calves were regrettably lost—one to poaching and the other to a rocky crevice accident—the survival rate stands at an impressive 80 percent. This remarkable statistic underscores the success and effectiveness of the Habitat for Rhino project.

The most recent additions to the rhino family at Gamsberg are truly heartening—a male calf, born on 30 June to mother Outcho, and another calf born on 9 September, whose gender remains undisclosed due to the mother’s protective instincts. The project team hopes for a female calf, further contributing to the growth and sustainability of the rhino population.

Habitat for Rhino has made substantial investments in enhancing rhino protection, with six full-time rangers dedicated to tracking and monitoring the rhinos on a daily basis. Four of these dedicated rangers patrol during daylight hours, while two maintain surveillance duties throughout the night. This 24/7 vigilance is further supported by strategically located security cameras, although some of these cameras fell victim to poachers earlier this year. The project is in the process of replacing these critical surveillance tools.

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is gearing up for the 2023-2024 JROTC Three-Position Postal Competition, with registration beginning September 26th. The national event is open to all high school junior cadets in Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force JROTC programs who are interested in competing with other young athletes from around the country.

Organized and facilitated by the CMP, the JROTC Three-Position event is jointly conducted by the U.S. Army Cadet Command, TECOM (Training & Education Command), the Naval Service Training Command and AFOATS (Air Force Officer Accession and Training Schools).

To compete, registered sporter and precision air rifle participants receive three targets and instructions for recording scores. Individuals then fire in three positions (prone, standing, kneeling) at their home ranges – using one target for each position. Once record shots are fired, athletes return targets to CMP for scoring through the mail or use of the Orion Visual Image Scoring system. JROTC units with approved Eletronic Scoring Targets are also authorized to shoot the postal competition on their targets and must follow the JROTC postal electronic target procedures.

Important Dates for the 2023-2024 JROTC Postal Competition:

Top scoring athletes and teams of the JROTC Postal Championship will move on to the Service Championships in Alabama, Ohio and Utah in February 2024, with the National JROTC Championship set to fire March 21-23, 2024, at the Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center in Camp Perry, Ohio.

Chuckwalla National Monument would span 660,000 acres of desert habitat with movement pathways for desert bighorn sheep, mule deer and other species

COACHELLA, Calif. – Vast, intact public land expanses of Southeast California revered both by hunters and the region’s Tribes could be permanently conserved if a national monument is established, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers stated today.

The proposed Chuckwalla National Monument would comprise approximately 660,000 acres of California desert home to desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, upland game and more that stretches west from the Coachella Valley region to the Colorado River in the east. The push to conserve this landscape has attracted a diverse slate of supporters, including from Tribes, area businesses and local residents, as well as hunters and anglers.

Representatives from these groups gathered today in Coachella, California, both to support the introduction of legislation led by Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA) that would permanently conserve the region and to urge President Biden to use his authority under the Antiquities Act to achieve this goal.

The Chuckwalla National Monument Establishment and Joshua Tree National Park Expansion Act, led by Rep. Ruiz, would establish the approximately 660,000-acre national monument. Lands within the proposed monument would remain under the authority of the Bureau of Land Management, maintaining access for hunters. Meanwhile the state of California would retain wildlife management authority, including active management for water resources to sustain wildlife populations.

Riton Optics has unveiled its highly anticipated addition to the PRIMAL line of purpose-built optics. The all-new 5 PRIMAL 15-45×60 Spotting Scope has been carefully designed with premium features packed into a compact, lightweight package, which provides hunters and shooters unmatched versatility in the field.

At the heart of the 5 PRIMAL 15-45×60 Spotting Scope are lenses crafted from Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass, delivering top-tier optical clarity and resolution while minimizing color fringing visible to the human eye. The advanced optical design and fully multi-coated lens coatings aid in allowing for maximum light transmission and definition when glassing for wildlife in all lighting and weather conditions.

Designed and engineered with a durable, lightweight aluminum alloy construction and IPX7 waterproof rating, the 5 PRIMAL 15-45×60 Spotting Scope is built to withstand just about every adventure ahead. Measuring in at just over 2.5 lbs and 12.5 inches long, the 5 PRIMAL 15-45×60 is easily packable, taking up less room in your pack for the hike in and out of the woods and mountains.

Focusing and zooming on subjects is effortless with the large, rubberized and knurled zoom and focus rings, allowing for precise adjustments and grip when bare handed, or while wearing gloves in cold conditions.

As with every magnified optic from Riton Optics, the 5 PRIMAL 15-45×60 Spotting Scope is also backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty and the Riton Promise, providing users with a lifetime of confidence in the field.

Salt Lake City, UT – Easton, the top name in archery since 1922, is running the 6.5 arrow production line daily and filling dealer shelves nationwide. The Easton 6.5MM line incorporates USA-made shafts that with the highest level of accuracy available to bowhunters today.  The versatile 6.5 is offered in multiple models with price points to fit virtually any hunter’s budget.

Hunting accuracy for shooter confidence is the cornerstone of Easton 6.5 arrows. The 6.5 uses proprietary Acu-Carbon Uniform Spine process.  Acu-Carbon is a continuous-fed, single-die manufacturing method that results in the most reliable tolerances and eliminates the need for the spine-alignment and weight sorting. Easton’s Acu-Carbon production line produces the most consistent spine and weight from dozen to dozen and lot to lot—year in and year out. This benefits the bowhunter with truer flight and pinpoint accuracy in the field.

The Easton Carbon 6.5 line-up includes three models, the Bowhunter (±.006”), the Hunter Classic (±.003”), and the Match Grade (±.001). The 6.5 includes Microlite Nocks, which are designed to move the throat of the nock closer to the back of the arrow shaft for better alignment. This makes the release more forgiving and further optimizes accuracy of the shot.  Microlite nocks are 38% lighter to increase arrow velocity and add front-of-center weight forwarding to improve arrow flight.  The Classic and Match Grade feature the 6.5MM inserts that are made using a 4X-larger shoulder to add strength and boost valuable FOC. The Bowhunter includes standard machined RPS point inserts  For more information on the Easton 6.5MM arrows see your local archery pro shop or visit www.eastonarchery.com

Spring Hill, Tenn. —Nearly 300 youths and their parents or guardians—double the number of participants in 2022—spent the weekend experiencing the outdoors in new ways at the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance’s (USA) 2nd Annual Campin’ in the Park at Fischer Park in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

Participants engaged in a variety of outdoor activities including archery, Backyard Bass casting, disc golf, a guided nature walk, a movie on a giant inflatable screen and a bonfire.

Organized by the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance and City of Spring Hill, the free, public event was supported by United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 1853 and The Bearden Group. USA staff along with 13 volunteers from UAW Local 1853, The Bearden Group, the City of Spring Hill, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) registered families, assisted participants with the various activities and prepared meals.

“We try to help out any way we can,” said Beatrice Davenport, a member of UAW Local 1853 who volunteered alongside a group of other Local 1853 members. “I love doing it for the kids. It was a really, really nice event, and the kids so enjoyed it.”

“This year’s event was phenomenal,” said USA Conservation Coordinator Cody Campbell. “The weather was perfect, and the kids were occupied the entire time. I heard many kids say it was ‘the best weekend ever.’”

At Millennium Treestands, we understand a hunter’s passion for staying hidden within a perfect blind that grants access to the perfect shot. Hunting smart, safe and efficiently correlates to the equipment a deer hunter sets up on their land.

Millennium Outdoors created its lineup of Buck Hut deer blinds for stealth, comfort and portability. The Solo Buck Hut and Buck Hut Shooting House weigh in at 225 lbs and 323 lbs, respectively, offering incredible features for the hunter looking for a little more than a hang-on or ladder stand this season.

Shooting House blinds are ideal for concealment, and their elevated position offers hunters better visibility and increases shooting opportunities. Hunt hard, play the wind and fill your tag in a Millennium Buck Hut this season.  

Q – 250 Solo Buck Hut

Built with both the firearm and archery hunter in mind, the Solo Buck Hut is just the right size for one. Roomy enough for a hunting chair or stool but still small enough to be tucked away in the woods. The Solo Buck Hut is tall enough for standing shots, offering plenty of shooting windows and adjustable shooting rests for the seated position. 

The non-profit organization supporting education and information on mental health wellness for the firearms community is sponsoring a sweepstakes with winners happening every day through Oct. 8, 2023.

Walk The Talk America (WTTA), a non-profit organization bridging the gap between mental health and responsible firearm ownership, is hosting its first sweepstakes for qualified entrants to win various prizes! This sweepstakes is open now until Oct. 8, 2023, 11:59:59 EST.

The sweepstakes can be entered by donating to WTTA through WTTA’s designated online donation portal. By donating $20, the entrant will get one entry into the Gold Tier with prizes up to $599 in value. Donating $40 gets an entry into the Platinum Tier with prizes up to $999 in value. For every 65 entrants into a tier, one winner will be selected at the end of the sweepstakes to pick a prize in the tier they entered! Within the Gold Tier, prizes include an impressive array of firearms from leading manufacturers, including pistols, shotguns, rifles, and ARs. Under the Platinum Tier, entrants will find another array of firearms from the top gun makers in the world. Winners will be contacted shortly after the conclusion of the sweepstakes to pick their prize! All applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply. The official rules can be found here.

“The WTTA Sweepstakes is our biggest fundraiser of the year and offers supporters a chance to be rewarded for donating to our organization. While people may think Walk the Talk America is well funded, that unfortunately isn’t the case. Donations and a handful of corporate sponsorships are vital in the sustainability and enhancements of our efforts. ” Michael Sodini, founder, and CEO of WTTA said.

About Walk the Talk America:

Team Winchester traveled to the beautiful Covey Rise Gun Club in Louisiana, competing in the latest NSCA Championship Tour regional event, Powered by Winchester. 

Desirae Edmunds, Connor Daniel and Joe Fanizzi led the way, shooting consistently throughout the event. Daniel won yet another Sub-Junior Main event and was locked in on some of the toughest targets on the course. Fanizzi shot well throughout the week long event and finished as the Runner-Up. Edmunds was a consistent force in every event, winning the Ladies FITASC title by five targets and securing runner up in the Winchester Ladies All-Around for the event. 

Team Winchester placements included:

Winchester Ladies Cup placements included: 

A full assortment of Winchester AA® shotshell ammunition was available to all registered competitors and a major thank you to Covey Rise Gun Club for hosting and managing the event. 

Baschieri & Pellagri USA, manufacturer of the world’s premiere shotshells for sporting clays and hunting, is pleased to announce the latest addition to the Upland Game line, the Upland Game Classic. This new product is designed to optimize the performance of bespoke and vintage shotguns. Whether it’s an afternoon of shooting clays or a morning of busting coveys, the “old reliable” will perform with every shot.

B&P has mastered the arts of consistency and efficiency in developing premium shotshells. Unlike modern performance shotshells, the Upland Game Classic is specifically engineered to deliver reliable payloads at reduced pressures, for those classic double guns with all the benefits of the Gordon System.

The Classic is available in 12 gauge. The 2 ½-inch chilled lead loads come in shot sizes #6, #7 ½, and #8, which leaves the barrel at 1160 fps.

For more information on B&P shotshells, visit Baschieri-PellagriUSA.com.

About Baschieri & Pellagri USA

On Saturday September 23, sportsmen and women across the United States were honored for their unique contributions to conservation, our nation’s economy, and our American way of life. Established by Congress in 1971 and first celebrated a year later, National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD) occurs the fourth Saturday of September and seeks to not only bring recognition, but also to encourage participation in hunting, fishing, recreational shooting, and trapping.

To raise awareness on how America’s sportsmen and women are the nation’s true conservationists, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) worked with the Executive Office of the President and Governors across the country, including the 27 members of the nonpartisan Governors Sportsmen’s Caucus (GSC), to formally recognize National Hunting and Fishing Day. 38 states issued gubernatorial proclamations in addition to the President’s own proclamation, which noted that “Hunting and fishing are part of who we are as Americans — central to our history, heritage, and prosperity and ingrained in the soul of our Nation.”

For over 85 years, sportsmen and women have played a crucial role in funding conservation efforts in the United States through the American System of Conservation Funding (ASCF), a unique “user pays – public benefits” program of self-imposed fees and manufacturer-level excise taxes. The ASCF serves as the main funding mechanism for state fish and wildlife agencies, helping to fund their critical work of fish and wildlife management, habitat management and restoration, hunter education, hunter and angler access projects, and more. National Hunting & Fishing Day seeks to increase awareness of and participation in our favorite outdoor pursuits, while also celebrating the contributions made by America’s original conservationists – sportsmen and women.

“As the backbone of conservation, America’s 55 million sportsmen and women are more than deserving of the recognition that comes with National Hunting and Fishing Day,” said CSF President and CEO Jeff Crane. “Each proclamation is a testament to the sanctity of our time-honored traditions and the immense conservation, economic, and cultural value sportsmen and women provide for our society.”

National Hunting and Fishing Day remains the most prominent occasion for promoting America’s hunting and angling traditions, and the economic, conservation, and cultural benefits provided by sportsmen and women.

Disease strikes 1 in 8 women

At any other time of year, the red towing response vessels of the on-water TowBoatUS towing fleet are helping recreational boaters get home after their boats have broken down or run aground. However, in October, seven TowBoatUS response boats across the country have been turned pink to bring the message of breast cancer awareness to the water in hopes of saving lives and finding a cure for a disease that affects 1 in every 8 women.

The seven locally owned and operated companies running pink boats for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month include TowBoatUS Boston, Massachusetts; TowBoatUS Daytona, Florida; TowBoatUS Lake Texoma, Oklahoma; TowBoatUS Mobile, Alabama; TowBoatUS Chicago, Illinois; TowBoatUS San Diego, California; and TowBoatUS Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, this year an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. However, if caught in its earliest, localized stages, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. Advances in early detection and treatment methods have significantly increased breast cancer survival rates in recent years, and there are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. The National Breast Cancer Foundation offers early detection tips including monthly breast self-exams and how to schedule a mammogram.

“As boating industry leaders and local community members, our local TowBoatUS towing companies wholeheartedly agree that breast cancer is worthy of our undivided attention as Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaches,” said TowBoatUS spokesperson Scott Croft. “These companies have been personally impacted by this terrible disease. Changing seven of our on-water response vessels from red to pink is a simple, impactful and meaningful effort raise awareness and seek out donations to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Coming together from all across the country to show support in our individual communities as well as a whole organization is incredibly important to us all.”

The wild turkey decline isn’t limited to the boundaries of a state; it is a complex issue that is happening on a larger scale. Likewise, other conservation issues don’t end where a new state begins – forests, waterways and wildlife corridors encompass multiple state boundaries, as do the associated challenges with managing them. 

It is for this reason that NWTF state chapters are stepping up to the challenges of the day and funding projects beyond their state boundaries, a new and innovative approach for NWTF chapters.

Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

What Volunteer Leaders Are Saying

“Money raised from fundraising events is not state-specific,” said Patt McFadden, NWTF Indiana State Chapter president. “The money raised is for our mission, the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage. Working across state boundaries with like-minded volunteers, like Mark [Mark Darnell is the Tennessee State Chapter president], solidifies my excitement to continue to do what I can for the NWTF and our beloved wild turkey.”

Hunting season is finally here! When all that pre-season preparation planning and preparation pays off with the harvest of a tasty buck or bull, a gamebag filled with upland birds, or a duck strap heavy with waterfowl, you want to be ready to prepare the tastiest meal you can for your family and friends. That’s why you should take advantage of some of the specials offered right now by Hi Mountain Seasonings, America’s premier manufacturer of kits for homemade jerky and sausage, western-style seasonings, and so much more.
Who doesn’t love delicious homemade sausage and hot dogs made from wild game meat? Today you can save 20 percent off the HMS sausage kits, including those for making Summer Sausage, Cracked Pepper & Garlic summer sausage, Hunter’s Blend sausage , Jalapeno summer sausage, the Original Hot Dog, Bratwurst, Spicy Beer bratwurst , Garlic Bratwurst, Salami sausage, German sausage, Italian sausage, Old fashioned bologna, and Polish sausage kit. Hi Mountain Sausage Making Kits include everything you need to make the best homemade sausage you’ve ever had, including seasonings, cure, casings, and easy-to-follow instructions.

For steaks and roasts, it’s hard to beat a high-quality rub. The HMS Rub 3-Pak #2 features rubs that are bursting with bold Western flavor, and are the perfect blend of seasonings for the best brisket, chicken, pork, lamb, beef, elk and deer you’ve ever had. Included in the Hi Mountain Rub-3 Pack #2 are Garlic Pepper Rub, Venison Rub, and Brisket Rub. Rub 3-Pack # 1 features different spice blends perfect for the best steak, prime rib roast, ribs, chicken, turkey and game birds you’ve ever tasted. Included in the Hi Mountain Rub 3-Pack #1 are Steak Rub, Rib Rub, and Poultry Rub. Hi Mountain Rub-3 Packs come in large bottles with dual action flip lids. Both are available today at a 20 percent savings!

You’ll find so much more on the Hi Mountain Seasonings website, https://himtnjerky.com/, including a seemingly endless array of other seasonings, marinades, kits, free recipes, and so much more, all guaranteed to help you create the most delicious meals from your hard-earned wild game and fish harvest you’ve ever had. Why not check it out today? 

About Hi Mountain Seasonings: Located in the heart of Wyoming, Hi Mountain Seasonings was founded in 1991 and is America’s premier manufacturer of kits for homemade jerky and sausage. Hi Mountain Seasonings has successfully captured distinct, traditional Western flavors in its jerky cure & seasonings; Western-style seasonings; bacon cures; snackin’ stick kits, dressings & dips; and much, much more. The company also offers field dressing and prep and cooking tools. For additional information, write: Hi Mountain Seasonings, 1000 College View Drive, Riverton, WY 82501; call toll-free 1-800-829-2285; or visit the company website at www.himtnjerky.com.

“The Blind” will premier September 28, 2023, throughout the U.S.

“Duck Dynasty” fans are expected to flock to the theaters September 28, 2023, for the premier of “The Blind,” a movie based on the life of Phil and Kay Robertson.

The movie takes viewers on a cinematic journey that not only chronicles their love story but reveals how their marriage and life were almost destroyed by Phil’s unfaithfulness and alcoholism before he found freedom through faith in Christ. “The Blind” is billed as a thought-provoking and inspiring film that transports you into a world of hope, redemption and the triumph of the human spirit.

“The Blind” shares never-before-revealed moments in Phil’s life as he seeks to conquer the shame of his past and finds restoration in an unlikely place. 

Phil is the creator of the multimillion-dollar Duck Commander company, which produces duck calls and other gear for duck hunters. He and his family rose to fame through the reality show, “Duck Dynasty,” which aired on A&E from 2012 to 2017 and portrayed the lives of Phil and Kay, their sons Willie, Jase and Jep, and Phil’s brother, Si, among others as they ran the business.

SITKA Gear, the industry leader in technical hunting and outdoor gear, announces the opening of their brick-and-mortar storefront in Dallas, Texas. The SITKA Dallas storefront is located at 4438 McKinney Ave #200 Dallas, TX and will be hosting Grand Opening festivities for the Dallas community on September 30th, 2023, with a special meet and greet with Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Leighton Vander Esch from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, where fans can stop by for a photo opportunity.

In addition to the meet and greet, the Grand Opening of the Dallas store will feature exclusive in-store promotions, giveaways, and a chance to engage with SITKA Gear’s ambassadors. Whether embarking on a hunting trip or simply embracing the great outdoors, SITKA Gear’s newest retail location is poised to become the go-to destination for gear that’s engineered to excel in any environment.

As the second retail location for SITKA Gear, and the first outside their hometown of Bozeman, MT, this venture marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. 

“We’re excited to bring SITKA to our Texas and Southern customers,” said Alley Ray, Retail Experience Manager. “Our gear is designed to elevate outdoor experiences, and with our new Dallas store, we’re providing enthusiasts with a hands-on opportunity to completely understand the difference our gear can make.”

Visitors to the new Dallas store can expect to be immersed in the complete SITKA Gear experience showcasing the brand’s dedication to high-quality, functional gear, mirroring the rugged yet refined nature of the products themselves. Knowledgeable staff members will be on hand to guide customers through SITKA’s product line, helping them find the ideal pieces for their specific activities.

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The Illinois NWTF State Chapter recently met in Springfield to review Hunting Heritage Super Fund project proposals for the 2024 Fiscal Year. After the reviewing and ranking process, the Illinois State Chapter approved $160,000 for mission-related activities across the Prairie State, including a $23,200 unrestricted gift to the conservation program in Illinois, $61,300 for seven priority conservation projects and $75,500 for hunting-heritage-related projects, such as education and outreach events, chapter scholarships, 4H Shooting Sports, mentored hunts and more.

NWTF awarded funding will be matched with almost $251,200 in partner funds for the approved projects in Illinois.

“Our volunteers in Illinois are staunch conservationists that are dedicated to both raising funds for the mission and delivering the mission,” said John Burk, NWTF district biologist for Missouri, Illinois and Iowa. “Between our volunteers and dedicated partners, we are tackling some of the biggest conservation challenges in the state while also ensuring future generations get the opportunity to enjoy our natural resources.”

The Super Fund is a funding model where NWTF volunteers raise money at banquets and other types of fundraisers and then allocate a significant portion of those funds back into meaningful conservation and outreach projects in their respective states. For Illinois 2024 Super Fund allocations, projects include:

$23,200 as an unrestricted gift to the conservation programs for use in Illinois.  

Growing up in Alaska, Theo Golden spent countless days in the outdoors, hunting with a bow and arrow. “Hunting was how we got our food. It was our grocery store,” said Golden.

Once he turned 18, bow hunting was left behind as he got busy with life. There was college and then more than eight years active-duty in the U.S. Army, which included two tours of duty in Iraq for 28 months.

Today, after serving over eight years in the Army, Golden has rediscovered archery. It is a way, he says, to help alleviate symptoms of PTSD and anxiety.

With the help of Hope For The Warriors and its Warrior’s Wish program, archery has become much easier and more enjoyable for Golden. He was granted his wish of a STEALTHI-450 Oracle X crossbow, valued at $3,500.

After attending a few hunting trips with other veterans service organizations, he discovered the need for a more accommodating crossbow. In Minnesota, medically qualified hunters are only permitted to use crossbows which Golden is officially permitted for.

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The National Wild Turkey Federation proudly sponsors National Hunting and Fishing Day, hosted by Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, for the 16th consecutive year.

This annual event falls on Sept. 23, serving as a powerful platform to highlight the crucial role hunters and anglers play in conserving our nation’s natural resources, wildlife populations and habitats.

NHFD is not just a day of celebration, it’s a call to action. One of its main goals aims to recruit new hunters and anglers by encouraging participation in hunting, fishing and various other outdoor activities. These activities are designed to promote conservation efforts and instill a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. It’s about sharing the love for nature and passing on valuable traditions to the next generation.

Hunters and anglers have historically spearheaded conservation initiatives. Their invaluable contributions span wildlife management, habitat restoration and scientific research. As more people engage in these activities, it results in increased funding for conservation programs, ultimately ensuring healthier ecosystems for all.

By taking someone new outdoors, you have the chance to pass on traditions, stories and skills that have been cherished for generations.