Hunting and Fishing News & Blog Articles

Ducks Unlimited receives historic support for RSP through Climate-Smart Commodities Grant

Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USA Rice – Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership (RSP) will receive $80M in funding through its Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities program. Through this new program, USDA finances innovative partnerships that create market opportunities for commodities produced using climate-smart practices.

“While DU is synonymous with creating better habitat for ducks, the truth is that, for 85 years, the wetlands we’ve restored have provided cleaner water for communities, protection from flooding, sequestration of carbon, countless opportunities for outdoor recreation and much more,” said Dr. Karen Waldrop, DU Chief Conservation Officer. “The support from this grant will help DU and USA Rice continue that work on a greater scale and magnify our conservation impact across a landscape that is vital to the future of rice production and waterfowl habitat.”

In 2013, USA Rice and Ducks Unlimited forged a model of collaboration between a farm group and a conservation organization – the Rice Stewardship Partnership. For nearly a decade, this partnership has offered rice producers assistance to address water quantity, water quality and wildlife habitat on working ricelands. From 2020-2021, RSP impacted 728,021 rice acres in the U.S.

“The Climate Smart Commodities Grant marks a historic moment in the Rice Stewardship Partnership,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “Ducks Unlimited learned long ago that working together with landowners is the best way to optimize resources for the benefit of both waterfowl and people. If it’s good for rice, odds are it’s also good for ducks. This funding will allow DU and our partners to take this already highly successful program to the next level, and we appreciate Secretary Vilsack and USDA for their leadership in this tremendous investment.”

Enjoy superior concealment in a variety of terrains when hunting from the Primal Wraith 270 Deluxe Blind. Available in Realtree EXCAPE camo, the blind features one-way windows that allow you to see all of your surroundings without being seen. And now, when you purchase the Primal Wraith 270 Deluxe Blind at your local Walmart or on Walmart.com, you will receive a three-month Premium OnX Hunt subscription – that’s a $50 FREE value that can last your whole hunting season!

On all three full-width, horizontal windows, the Wraith 270 Blind features Silent Slides, which allow a hunter to quietly create his or her perfect shooting point.

All of the Wraith 270 window coverings use an advanced, one-way, see-through durable mesh that allows the hunter to see out of the blind, but blocks the deer or other animal’s view inside the blind. They’ll never see you until it’s too late.

The Wraith 270 Blind is great for hunting turkey, deer, big game and other outdoor hunting activities.

At Millennium Treestands®, we understand the passion and the drive to go further, hunt harder, and remain undetected in the whitetail woods. The desire and will to be versatile in the woods and hunt smart directly relates to the adaptability and reliability of the tools at hand.

The M250 Aluminum Hang On Climbing Sticks were born with mobility and flexibility in mind. Their lightweight, rigid, single tube aluminum construction and stackable design make the M250 easy to pack, bringing unparalleled treestand tactics to the backwoods and off the beaten path.

Double loop connection straps ensure quick deployment, and the no metal-on-metal design ensures hunt stand ascents and descents that are silent. Alternating, sure traction, anti-slip angled steps save on weight while providing increased foot clearance.  

The versatile design can be used on any healthy tree, even crooked trees. When the hunt calls for the next level in portability, stealth, and reliability, the M250 Hang On Sticks by Millennium Treestands will deliver. No assembly is required, and the sticks are ready right out of the box. Available in a helpful 4-pack set, the Millennium M250 Aluminum Climbing Sticks are the perfect tool for high-achieving hunters.

M250 Aluminum Climbing Sticks Features:

Riton Optics is proud to introduce the 5 Tactix 1-6×24 Thunder Ranch! A rugged, versatile and feature-rich low power variable optic (LPVO), developed in partnership with the legendary Clint Smith from Thunder Ranch.

Designed and engineered to withstand the rigors of extreme use, while offering class-leading clarity, Riton Optics built the 5 Tactix 1-6×24 Thunder Ranch riflescope specifically for Modern Sporting Rifle (MSR) platforms. Riton Optics, Clint and the Thunder Ranch team put their minds together to build this optic, so users can shoot with confidence knowing that this optic has earned the right to wear the Thunder Ranch Shield and Lightning Bolt!

The true 1x to 6x Second Focal Plane (SFP) optical system of the 5 Tactix 1-6×24 Thunder Ranch was engineered to offer shooters distortion-free target acquisition with both eyes open at 1x, for quick and accurate engagements at close to medium range. Rotate the integrated throw lever to 6x, and shoot with confidence at extended ranges while maintaining a crystal clear field of view.

Equipped with the all-new “THR” bullet drop compensator reticle, the 5 Tactix 1-6×24 Thunder Ranch was optimized specifically for the 55gr. 5.56/.223 shot out of a 16″ barrel. Precise aiming points for 25, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 yards, along with 5 and 10 MPH wind holds, provide shooters the confidence needed to make precision shots out to 500 yards without ever touching the dial.

Activate the daylight bright, green illuminated reticle by turning the 6-step illumination knob on the left side of the optic to the desired brightness. Additionally, the 5 Tactix 1-6×24 Thunder Ranch also features an off setting between each brightness level so the reticle can be turned off quickly when desired.

The National Deer Association (NDA) tallied another successful and exciting year for their Deer Steward program with a powerful lineup of courses.

“This program has proven to have such a large impact across the country and it’s really exciting to see it continue growing,” said Nick Pinizzotto, NDA President & CEO. “These programs give deer hunters the knowledge they need to go make an actual difference where they hunt. That is an extremely powerful tool when implemented on this scale and we are already seeing noticeable changes.”

2022 began with a unique in-person Deer Steward Level 1 custom course for Whitetail Properties in Illinois, followed by a Habitat Enhancement Module for their Land Specialists in Kentucky. This year also marked their biggest Deer Steward course yet, featuring a custom training for the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission in Little Rock. With nearly 90 biologists, technicians, foresters and WMA managers in attendance, this proved to be the largest audience in the program’s history. NDA has held custom courses for five other state wildlife agencies including Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, and Tennessee.

In August, NDA wrapped up another public Level 2 course in Wisconsin alongside event partner, Vortex Optics. Vortex Optics offered a private tour for all attendees to experience their impressive headquarters and world class shooting and training facility, the Vortex Edge. With nearly 40 students from 15 states, the organizations spent several days discussing all things deer biology, habitat management, population ecology, hunting strategies and more led by NDA’s Kip Adams, Matt Ross, Ben Westfall and Dr. Craig Harper from the University of Tennessee.

Across all of NDA’s Deer Steward in-person and online courses this year, the nearly 300 attendees are projected to impact more than 2.3 million acres by implementing course knowledge on the lands they hunt or manage. The friendships, knowledge, and appreciation for deer management gained through these in-person courses are an integral part of the program. It is extremely important to the NDA that they are back in full swing, educating and interacting with deer hunters, landowners, and natural resource professionals.  

HatsanUSA, the exclusive U.S. distributor of Escort Shotguns, is proud to showcase the Escort FieldHunter Youth. This pump-action shotgun is engineered for youth and smaller framed shooters of all levels. 

The FieldHunter Youth is a 20 gauge, with a 3-inch chamber that can handle a variety of shots, including steel (with specific chokes). The included multi-choke system includes five chokes (F, IM, M, IC, CYL). The versatility of multiple size chokes, plus the capability to shoot 2 ¾ in. to 3 in. shotgun shells, makes it the perfect youth shotgun for every hunting adventure, including upland birds, small game, waterfowl, and turkey. A migratory plug can be installed for 2+1 capacity and removed for a complete 4+1 capacity.

To ensure durability, Escort has designed the FieldHunter Youth with a synthetic polymer stock and forend that features textured grips, and an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy receiver is fully anodized that sports a well-designed 11mm groove for optics mounts. The chrome-plated, 22-inch barrel pulls everything together utilizing a 7mm checkered and ventilated anti-glare rib ending with a classic brass bead. 

For fit and comfort, there is a well-designed rubber recoil TrioPad with spacers that can be added or removed to adjust the length of pull. Stock shims provide adjustment of drop and cast for a better fit. Safety is a significant concern for any firearm, so a manual cross-button safety is built in. Mounted sling studs make for easy carry and firing support. Finally, the FieldHunter Youth is lightweight, weighing slightly over 6 lbs., making it easy to carry and easy to use. It’s ready for your next hunting adventure.

FieldHunter Youth Features:

Tickets are now on sale for the 10th Annual Under the Oaks Gala, a night of celebration in support of Trinity Oaks programs for underprivileged kids, terminally ill children and combat veterans in our community. This year’s Gala will take place on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 5:00 p.m. at La Vilita Assembly Hall on San Antonio’s scenic River Walk.

The Under the Oaks Gala dinner and auction has grown into the premier fundraising event for Trinity Oaks, attracting more than 500 guests from across the country and often selling out well in advance of the event. This year’s Gala will feature live music, an open bar, incredible food catered by Black Tie, raffles, games, an extensive silent auction, and a world-class live auction that includes exotic hunts, vacation trips and other fabulous items. All proceeds from this event will bring vital funds and support to the Trinity Oaks programs and services it provides.

Under the Oaks Gala tickets are available as 10-person tables or individually.

Fausti VIP Table: $10,000 (only 10 tables available)
A beautiful Fausti Caledon shotgun ($2,000+ value) will be gifted to the “Fausti VIP” table sponsor. Individual guest gifts from Rebecca Creek and Trinity Oaks. These are the 10 best seats in the house, complete with a private server, who will be on hand to provide the table with VIP drink and food service. There will be no need to get up for drinks or the buffet; just sit back, relax and enjoy the evening. In addition, the Fausti VIP Table’s benefactor will be recognized by name or company name on printed event materials as well as signage, the rolling big screen and verbally during the event.

Century Oak Table: $5,000 (15 tables available)
One table for 10 guests that is favorably located. It includes all entertainment, open bar and incredible dinner stations, a private server for the table, special gifts from Trinity Oaks and Rebecca Creek Distillery for each guest. The benefactor (or company) of the Century Oak Table will be recognized on printed event materials as well as signage, the rolling big screen and verbally during the event.

Chattanooga Shooting Supplies, Inc. (CSSI), an industry leader providing 45,000 SKUs of shooting and hunting-related products to service the independent dealer, becomes a Silver Sponsor of WTTA.

Walk The Talk America (WTTA), a non-profit organization designed to bridge the gap between the firearms industry and owners and the mental health industry, is honored to have received a generous donation of $20,000 from Chattanooga Shooting Supplies, Inc. (CSSI) and welcomes them as WTTA’s newest Silver Sponsor.

Mental illness and suicide affect many individuals and families throughout the country, and that includes within the firearms and 2A community. We at CSSI want to play an active role in helping to find meaningful solutions to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health within the gun community. We are honored to support WTTA’s mission,” commented Ron Staffieri, CEO of CSSI.

“We are humbled by CSSI’s generous donation and support and proudly welcome them as our newest Silver Sponsor,” Michael Sodini, WTTA founder, said. “With every donation, we can provide more tools and resources to individuals, companies, and retailers. Our goal is to bring together not only the firearms industry and mental health resources but to make them available to all firearms owners. Donations like this from CSSI help to support our mission and we couldn’t do what we do without companies like CSSI.”

WTTA, the brainchild of Sodini, a firearms industry veteran, spearheaded a movement within the firearms industry to bridge the gap between mental health and responsible firearm ownership to reduce suicide by firearm and gun violence. Through educational programs, podcasts, and training programs, WTTA is paving the way for educating mental health professionals about gun culture and breaking down the negative stigmas around mental health for gun owners. Through its various programs and offerings, such as instructional flyers and slides for firearms instructors, classes in Cultural Competence, and Introductory Courses in The Intersection of Guns and Mental Health, WTTA is leading the conversation and opening doors throughout the firearms industry and mental health industry.

Fishing Tom Guide Service, Southwest Louisiana’s premier fishing guide service, is currently taking reservations for the later part of 2022 and 2023. This sought-after fishing guide service offers daily fishing trips, as well as lodge-based packages. There are a few days/packages available in 2022, but they are very limited.

Fishing Tom Guide Service, owned and operated by Captain Tommy, is a first-class fishing operation located in Sulpher, Louisiana. Captain Tom Adams has over 30 years of fishing experience and has fished the local waters all his life. His son, Captain Tommy, has also been fishing since childhood. This dynamic duo are passionate about providing each and every client with an unforgettable and productive experience out on their home waters.

Guests will fish aboard their 24 ft. Nautic Star center console equipped with a 250 HP Mercury engine that gives it a smooth, powerful and dry ride. It is fully equipped with all of the latest electronics to help locate the most productive fishing spots each day. The wireless trolling motor will allow the boat to move through marshes and bayous without disturbing the sought after fish. State-of-the-art rods & reels will be on hand along with tried-and-true tackle and bait.

Fishing Tom Guide Service takes its clientele to fish the Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes through the bayous and marshes that surround those areas. These seasoned captains know the waters and can navigate these intricate waterways to get to areas others dare not approach. The targeted species when fishing these areas are typically redfish, flounder, sheepshead, tripletail, trout, and other saltwater species. It is not unheard of to catch more than 15 different species in one day with this premier guide service.

Come enjoy the beautiful waters and fishing of Louisiana with Fishing Tom Guide Service. You are sure to enjoy an experience you won’t forget with memories you will have for a lifetime. Space is limited so you will want to book now.

Safari Club International is excited to announce that registration is open for its 2023 Annual Convention. The 51st annual SCI Convention will be held February 22-25, 2023, at Music City Center in Nashville, TN. 

SCI’s preferred hotels for the 2023 Convention include Grand Hyatt Downtown, Hilton Nashville Downtown, Hyatt Place Downtown, JW Marriott Nashville, The Westin Nashville, Renaissance Nashville, and Omni Nashville. Please mention “SCI2023” or “Safari Club room block” when booking hotels over the phone to receive discounted pricing. 

The Convention will showcase unique hunting opportunities on six continents, world-class taxidermy and art, and give manufacturers their first opportunity to demonstrate new products directly to consumers. Considered the “Ultimate Sportsmen’s Market,” the Convention also plays host to dozens of topical seminars presented by subject matter experts. Several hundred hunts, fishing trips, firearms, works of art, jewelry, and other items and services are offered at live and silent auctions, helping SCI raise hunter advocacy and conservation funds. Finally, you won’t want to miss out on the nightly banquets and world-class entertainment starring country music celebrities, hunting superstars, and much more!  

Whether attendees are looking to book their dream hunt, scope out the latest firearms and gear, or find taxidermy inspiration, the SCI Annual Convention will impress with many exhibits and something for everyone! 

To register for the 2023 SCI Annual Convention, visit https://showsci.org. To contact a registration agent, please dial 520-620-1220 or call toll-free at 888-746-9724.

Affordable and Realistic Woodland Jimmy Big Tine and Big Jim Whitetail Targets Help Archers Prepare for Fall Hunting

Janesville, WI — Rinehart Targets®, the worldwide leader in quality archery targets, is proud to offer two affordable Woodland Series deer target options that’ll easily hold up to both countless practice shots as well as the elements. Rinehart’s Jimmy Big Tine and Big Jim Whitetail targets are the ideal lifelike and long-lasting 3D deer targets to add to your backyard range as you prepare for fall hunting season.

The Woodland Series continues to be among Rinehart’s best-selling and most popular targets. They offer lower retail price points that allow even more archers to experience the realistic durability of a Rinehart target.

The Woodland Jimmy Big Tine target measures 48-inches tall with a length of 40 inches, simulating a 100-pound deer. There’s no better realistic practice partner as the buck also incorporates lifelike sculpted features allowing shooters to create the most authentic practice scenario possible in their own backyard. The target incorporates Rinehart’s locking antler feature, which means shooters have the option to easily swap out the antlers and replace with their own.

Looking for a bigger buck target that doesn’t set you back big bucks? Big Jim is your guy. Measuring 56-inches tall and 44 inches in length, the Rinehart Big Jim Whitetail target simulates a 140-pound whitetail. Like all Rinehart targets, Big Jim too will turn heads with its impressive life-like details. Much like it’s ‘little brother’ Jimmy Big Tine, Big Jim’s antlers are also easily swapped out should you wish to replace them with your own.

Clearmont, Wyo – In its momentous tenth year, the Wyoming Women’s Antelope Hunt will bring women from across the nation together at the Ranch at Ucross in northeast Wyoming for a weekend of hunting, mentorship and camaraderie from October 6-9. One much-anticipated event in a meaningful and exciting weekend of hunting and camaraderie is the annual silent and live Auction Dinner. The Wyoming Women’s Foundation (WYWF) will again host 300 guests, hunters, guides and volunteers under a tent at the Ranch at Ucross for a festive evening of fun and fundraising on Friday, October 7.

“I am so grateful to say that the Wyoming Women’s Antelope Hunt is coming into year 10 very strongly. To think of where we started and what this event has become, I am humbled. The sponsors and the greater Clearmont community around Ucross that have supported this event since day-one took a chance on a new thing in 2013 and have made it a Wyoming institution. Local landowners have invited us back each year. The guides share their time and expertise to help the women learn and grow as hunters. An ever-growing community of kind and generous people attend our Auction Dinner and Online Event. So many people have come together to make this event a success.” says Rebekah Smith, WYWF Director.

The weekend provides training on all aspects of hunting, from shooting and harvesting to processing. 46 women hunters from 12 states will attend the sold out experience this year, including 16 first-time hunters. Mentors will help the new and experienced hunters sight-in their rifles, some shooting for the first time, on Thursday, October 6. By the end of the day on Saturday, October 8, strangers will have become friends that will last a lifetime. Women attending will have gained new skills, and forged relationships that will enable them to continue their hunting journey.

The in-person dinner, silent and live auctions and raffle on October 7, 2022, at the Ranch at Ucross is sold out for 2022. However, there are still ways to get involved!

First, Auction Dinner Sponsorships are available to underwrite tables for hunters, volunteers and guides. Sponsorships benefit members of the hunt community and help raise funds for the Wyoming Women’s Foundation’s larger mission: to help women achieve economic self- sufficiency and provide opportunities for girls.

Bow Spider, the quickest and easiest bow retrieval system on the market, has teamed up with Alpine to offer bowhunters an easy and effective way to protect and carry their bow – the Bow Spider Alpine Bow Slicker.

The Bow Spider Alpine Bow Slicker is ultralight, durable and designed to fit most compound bows on the market with parallel limbs ranging from 24”-36” axle-to-axle. Mesh loops easily wrap around the limbs of the bow and a pocket of durable fabric slips over the bow cams. The sleeve is crafted with elastic in the hem to allow for a more secure grip around the bow while also making it easy and quick to remove.

No clips, snaps or buckles are required, making the Bow Spider Alpine Bow Slicker super convenient whether in the field or at the range. It is made in America and comes with a guarantee against manufacturer defects. It has a suggested retail price of $65.95.

For more information on the Bow Spider Alpine Bow Slicker or the other amazing products available from Bow Spider visit www:bowspider.com.

The Bow Spider Alpine Bow Spider is available for a limited time so be sure to order one soon before they are gone!

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — The Fallen Outdoors (TFO) is a nationwide organization with dedicated chapters across the country that organize and provide outdoor adventures for veterans of all ages and from all branches of the U.S. military. With iSportsman providing services on more than 50 military bases across the continental United States, Alaska and Hawaii for more than a decade, the company recognizes the important role outdoor access and opportunities play for active-duty soldiers, veterans and their families. Thus, supporting an organization like The Fallen Outdoors is an obvious choice.

The Virginia Chapter of TFO is hosting a fund-raising banquet Sept. 17 to set the stage for the 2022/2023 hunting and fishing season and promote outdoor activities available to current service personnel and veterans. iSportsman will be in attendance as a table sponsor, donating one table to interested individuals to attend the banquet at no charge. 

“The impact TFO has had on so many lives is nothing short of inspirational.” says Aneil Kumar, iSportsman President. “As a company that supports outdoor recreation, we are proud to extend that support and do whatever we can to help change lives and make more opportunities available.”

iSportsman will be working with TFO to help them identify landowners, hunt clubs, outfitters and boat captains who share their passion for taking veterans, service members and their families outdoors and growing the number of events TFO can host.

You can find a TFO chapter to join as either a participant or volunteer, or donate to their cause following this link.

Kansas City, Mo.—Nearly 200 young anglers and their families lined the banks of Troost Lake in the heart of Kansas City alongside local union members and other community volunteers and retired Kansas City Chiefs running back Priest Holmes on Saturday for the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) 2nd Annual Greater Kansas City BCTC Take Kids Fishing Day.

Hosted by the USA and the Greater Kansas City Building and Construction Trades Council (BCTC), the free event was supported by Priest Holmes Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City, Kansas City Parks, the Missouri Department of Conservation, Marriott Hotels and the USA’s Take Kids Fishing Day Host Sponsor Humana.

“Take Kids Fishing Day gave kids and parents from different economic backgrounds an opportunity to learn about the outdoors through fishing and build their confidence in handling rods, reels and baiting hooks,” said Holmes, who is actively involved in the NFL Players Association and the USA. “There were lots of memories made. I watched one boy pull worms out of a bait cup with so much interest. Other kids said they have never fished before. I encouraged them for trying something new and challenged them to keep fishing after the event.”

All the young anglers received a free fishing rod and reel, to ensure they have the chance to continue fishing for years to come. Many of the kids won additional outdoor gear in giveaways held during lunch.

Thirty-three volunteers from the Greater Kansas City BCTC, Ironworkers Local 10, Sheet Metal Workers Local 2, Fire Fighters Local 42, Insulators Local 27, Teamsters Local 41, Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ Local 518, Bricklayers Local 15, Pipefitters Local 533, Electrical Workers Local 124, Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO, NFLPA, along with staff from Marriott Hotels, Humana, Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City and the Missouri Department of Conservation provided participants with hands-on instruction and assistance using their new rods along with tips on how to catch a big one.

Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, renowned for its Sandhills location providing spectacular astronomical views, has been certified as an International Dark Sky Park.

Merritt has hosted the annual Nebraska Star Party each summer for 29 years, when professional and amateur astronomers converge to take advantage of a sky free of light pollution.

Merritt is the first Nebraska site certified by the International Dark-Sky Association. The IDA is the recognized authority on light pollution and is the leading organization combating light pollution worldwide.

“This is an exciting first for our state,” said Executive Director of Nebraska Tourism John Ricks. “The Dark Sky Park will attract people to experience the awe and splendor of our night skies, adding yet another excellent, unique experience to visiting Nebraska.”

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Director Tim McCoy added, “We’re thrilled and honored to have Merritt Reservoir be given this prestigious distinction. It’s another great reason to visit this well-known park.”

Big City Mountaineers (BCM), a leading provider of outdoor and backcountry experiences for youth for more than 30 years, is pleased to announce that the organization has partnered with MYSTERY RANCH  and Outside Interactive Inc. to launch an inaugural Find Your Good fundraising campaign, with a donation match campaign in September.

The Campaign runs, September 12-22, with the culmination of the Backpacker Get Out more finale at Neptune Mountaineering on Sept. 22, 2022, Gear and Skills Clinic and Pint Night Celebration (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) Benefitting Backcountry Squatters (CU Boulder Chapter) and Big City Mountaineers.

2022 marks the launch of Outside Interactive Inc’s Find Your Good campaign. The Find Your Good platform was created to connect people who love to spend time outside with like-minded nonprofits that are anchored in the outdoors. Find Your Good supports nonprofits in seven categories: hiking and camping, cycling, running, climbing, winter sports, healthy living, and sustainability.

“The Find Your Good initiative is an incredible tool to help connect people with nonprofits who have similar principles and values, rooted in the outdoors,” said David Taus, executive director, Big City Mountaineers. “Outside Interactive Inc’s dedication to supporting Big City Mountaineers and other organizations with similar values really catalyzes BCM’s goal of breaking down barriers to outdoor access for young people from disinvested communities.”

“I’m so thrilled to have Big City Mountaineers as a member of our first cohort of Find Your Good,” says Kristin Hostetter, head of sustainability and community partnerships at Outside Interactive Inc. “The work BCM does is so important and impactful, not only to the kids they serve but the outdoor community at large. We’re honored to support them and share their incredible work with our audience.”

BISMARCK, ND — After consideration of letters presenting the concerns of U.S. hunters from Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited and other conservation partners, the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced today new provisions allowing import of hunter-harvested wild game birds from Canada into the United States. These new provisions amend the APHIS declaration of 10 days ago that functionally shut down all import of birds from all Canadian provinces.

“This is great news for American waterfowl hunters already in Canada and for those with plans to hunt there this season,” said Delta’s chief policy officer John Devney. “As The Duck Hunters Organization, we sincerely thank APHIS for reconsidering the restrictions and for doing it so quickly. It definitely puts optimism back into the hearts of hunters looking forward to hunting ducks and geese in Canada this fall following what promises to have been an outstanding summer of duck production!”

The USDA announcement says that, beginning immediately, APHIS will allow the import of hunter-harvested wild game bird carcasses, originating from or transiting through Canada, meeting the following conditions:

APHIS further recommends that boots and any equipment used to process the carcasses should be clean and visibly free from dirt, blood, tissue and feces.

However, it’s important to note, cooked or cured meat and meat products (for example, sausage, jerky, etc.) WILL NOT be allowed for import because USFWS regulations cannot be met to identify the species.

By Nicolas Gregoris

If guns, explosions, and world-class shooters duking it out for some serious prize money sounds like your idea of a good time, check out the American Airgunner Challenge.

The American Airgunner Challenge is a reality-style shooting competition that pits 8 contestants against each other in a series of 10 intense challenges. One by one, shooters are eliminated until a champion is crowned.

This is season 3 of the Airgunner Challenge, and new episodes air on the Outdoor Channel Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. EST. The season finale airs next Wednesday, but after you inevitably fall in love with the show and want more, you can watch all of seasons 1 and 2 here.

The American Airgunner Challenge will fill the Top-Shot-shaped-hole in your heart. The shooting industry has been craving a televised shooting competition and the American Airgunner Challenge stepped up and delivered.

This year, MSgt Nick Capko, 38, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, returned to the Camp Perry National Matches after more than a decade from his debut – marking just his second trip to the annual event that’s been a marksmanship tradition in Ohio for over a century.

His main purpose of returning was the same one that brought him to the grounds of historical Camp Perry in the first place – representing the U.S. Marine Corps as a member of the marksmanship team.

“I wasn’t ready for college, and it was something that I was interested in doing. It was something to get started on my life,” he said of his initial beginnings in the Marines. “That was ultimately why I chose the Marine Corps – the challenge that was laid out for me.”

Nick has been a Marine for 20 years. Before that, he had never fired a gun – taking his first shots during boot camp. After checking into a unit that was deployed, leaving him behind, he went on to supplement his time by training others on the range.

“There, someone said to me, ‘Hey, you should get on the Marine Corps Shooting Team,’” he explained.