Sportsmen and women across the country will be turning out this Saturday, enjoying consumptive outdoor activities ranging from upland bird hunting, early big game season action, or fishing along a favorite stream or at a popular lake.
It’s the 54th annual National Hunting and Fishing Day, which recognizes generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to the conservation of the nation’s rich sporting heritage and natural resources.
According to the NHFD website, “For 250 years, America’s lands, waters, and wildlife have been protected by conservationists, hunters, anglers, recreational shooters, and outdoor advocates. Their dedication built the conservation legacy we enjoy today. Generations of men and women have worked to preserve our outdoor heritage, ensuring future generations can experience the forests, fields, waterways, and wildlife that inspire us all.”
People can explore the stories of these conservation legends and see how their commitment shaped conservation in America. Their story continues today. Every time we hunt, fish, shoot, volunteer, restore habitat, or introduce someone new to the outdoors, we become part of that legacy, said a news release announcing the annual gathering.
The first observance of National Hunting and Fishing Day came in September 1972 after then-President Richard Nixon signed legislation establishing the fourth Saturday in September as the special day.
One of the main goals of National Hunting and Fishing Day is to recruit new hunters and anglers by encouraging participation and increasing public awareness of the connection between hunting, angling, and conservation.
Through self-imposed fees and excise taxes, sportsmen and women have raised more than $57 billion–that’s more than $100,000 every 30 minutes being raised for conservation. National Hunting & Fishing Day is the largest, most effective grassroots movement ever undertaken to promote outdoor sports and conservation.
Many hunting seasons are underway and more will be opening soon. Hunters in many western states are already pursuing grouse and other upland game. Bowhunters have taken the field for early big game hunts.
