Why It Matters: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) Commission is set to convene April 16-18, 2026, amid mounting legal challenges that could distract from essential, science-driven wildlife management decisions. Sportsmen and women depend on stable, predictable policies rooted in the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation to sustain hunting, fishing, and habitat […]
Why It Matters: Innovative technologies that increase the simplicity of hunting opportunities without sacrificing the fair chase ethic that guides our outdoor pursuits are often met with reservation, at least at first. Fortunately, in the case of muzzleloading technology like the FireStick platform developed for the NitroFire muzzleloader by Federal Premium and Traditions, it appears […]
Why It Matters: Though hunting, fishing, and harvesting wildlife (including by trapping) have long been our heritage, dating back to before the Europeans first arrived in North America, only recently has the “right” to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife come into question. 24 states have already successfully provided their citizens with a right to hunt, […]
Why It Matters: Bringing hunter safety education classes into schools offers kids a chance to learn the fundamentals needed to safely participate and enjoy time outdoors in a controlled, safe, and familiar environment. The experiences that they gain can encourage them to become annual hunting and fishing license holders, where they will join in funding […]
Why It Matters: Maryland House Bill 197 (HB 197) and its cross-file, Senate Bill 118 (SB 118), sought to impose an additional 11% excise tax on firearms dealers for the sale of firearms, accessories, and ammunition to fund gun violence prevention and intervention programs. Legislation like this discriminates against law-abiding sportsmen and women in the […]
Why It Matters: Overabundant double-crested cormorant populations are creating growing challenges for fisheries, aquaculture, and habitat health across the country. Providing states with flexible, science-based management tools ensures localized issues can be addressed effectively while maintaining sustainable population levels. This legislation represents a proactive step toward balancing conservation success with on-the-ground realities. Highlights: Last week, Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus member, Representative Tim Walberg […]