By Dave Workman
Editor-in-Chief
Georgians should circle Saturday, Aug. 23 on their calendars, as that is the date for the inaugural “Hunting and Fishing Night” at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.
As reported by The Outdoor Wire, the Braves are teaming with Realtree and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to kick off this evening of activity. According to the report, “Celebrating a shared passion of the outdoors that runs deep through the heart of Braves Country, the night will offer fans a one-of-a-kind experience that blends sports and outdoor tradition.”
One might call it a precursor to National Hunting and Fishing Day, which is slated Saturday, Sept. 27. This year marks the 53rd anniversary of National Hunting and Fishing Day, signed by proclamation by then-President Richard Nixon, on May 2 1972. The fourth Saturday of September is set aside for this special day, when outdoorsmen and women are encouraged to participate in activities to promote outdoor sports and conservation.
But before the annual celebration, Atlanta outdoorsmen and women, and Braves fans, can celebrate the outdoors lifestyle, the Outdoor Wire report says.
“In the Southeast and across the country, many fans who grew up swinging a bat also grew up chasing whitetails, turkeys, or bass. Realtree and Georgia DNR are proud to recognize the intersection between the baseball and outdoor communities and celebrate the generations of families who connect through both. Presented by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Realtree®, Hunting and Fishing Night, this night will highlight the lifestyle that defines so much of Georgia’s heritage—where love for the woods and the water is just as strong as the love for the Atlanta Braves.
“Pre-game festivities will feature immersive outdoor-themed activations in The Battery Atlanta, with educational exhibits, family-friendly experiences, and interactive stations highlighting hunting, fishing, and wildlife conservation efforts in the state of Georgia. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn more about how they can get involved in outdoor recreation and stewardship programs.
Activations include:
- Trailer Aquarium featuring bass, crappie, blue gill, catfish, and other species.
- “Touch Tank” nature display experience where fans can check out and touch a variety of crustaceans such as Horseshoe crabs, spider crabs, shrimp, and whelks
- Animal Ambassadors with live animals on site for opportunities for fans of all ages to meet and greet Georgia’s native wildlife. Animals that will be onsite include snakes, tortoises, turtles, frogs, and alligators. Wildlife handlers will provide interesting facts about each animal and where fans can spot them around Georgia
- Gateway to Fishing Program trailer that will showcase the gear and fishing opportunities available across the metro Atlanta area in partnership with local municipalities or community groups
- “How to Measure Fish” educational display
- “Skulls, Skins, and Fish ID” will feature mammal pelts and skulls, as well as fish replicas, to discuss fish ID for common sportfish across Georgia
- Spin-wheel that offers fans a way to win giveaway items
- Virtual Reality “Reef Experience” featuring Oculus Goggles where fans can travel to the sea and live the marine life
- An Inflatable Archery Booth where fans can discover their skills with a bow and Velcro arrow under supervision by DNR’s shooting sports staff
- Game Warden Boat
“Fans are encouraged to wear their Realtree camo in support of the outdoor themed evening.
In addition, the first 15,000 fans in attendance at the game will receive a limited-edition Atlanta Braves Camo Rope Hat, presented by Realtree®, that features Realtree APX camo.
“The timing couldn’t be better. With late August marking the ramp-up to hunting season, this event celebrates the anticipation and energy that comes with the changing seasons—when Georgia’s outdoorsmen and women prepare for time in the woods.
“We’re thrilled to team up with the Atlanta Braves and Realtree to showcase our mission, our work, and the incredible outdoor experiences Georgia has to offer to fans of all ages,” said Walter Rabon, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. “This is a tremendous opportunity to provide engaging, family-friendly activities that highlight what we do, right in the heart of The Battery.”
“We are excited to partner with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Realtree for the inaugural Hunting and Fishing Night,” said Jim Allen, Atlanta Braves Senior Vice President of Corporate and Premium Partnerships. “As the Braves continue to bring to life unique and world-class fan experiences at Truist Park, it’s important for us to incorporate elements of Braves Country that naturally intersect with our fans, while also engaging with new communities to bring us together under shared interests.”
“We’ve been lucky enough over the years to form real friendships with Braves greats like Chipper Jones, Austin Riley, Ned Yost, and many others,”saidBill Jordan, Realtree Founder & CEO.“The crossover and fandom between our hometown team and the outdoors community is something truly special. It’s a bond rooted in tradition, family, and pride in where we come from. We’re honored and excited to team up with our friends at the Georgia DNR and the Atlanta Braves. This is going to be fun.”
“Don’t miss this unique night where Georgia’s two great traditions—America’s pastime and the pursuit of the outdoors—come together in one unforgettable night.
“For more information or to purchase tickets for this night, fans can visit Braves.com/HuntingandFishing.”
