Join the
+ONE® MOVEMENT
From small game and upland birds to big game, waterfowl and even the creatures that define the term “top of the food chain," hunting offers a priceless bond with the natural world, food for the table and a welcome respite from the world’s daily grind.
Learn MoreAll About Hunting
From small game and upland birds to big game, waterfowl and even the creatures that define the term “top of the food chain,” hunting offers a priceless bond with the natural world, food for the table and a welcome respite from the world’s daily grind.
GET STARTED IN HUNTING
If just one in three hunters add one new person to our hunting traditions, we’ll secure a strong future for generations to come. Be the one. Ignite the passion that can change the course of someone’s life forever. For all hunting has done to enrich your life, join the +ONE movement and invite someone hunting. Share your experience with posts on social media. #PlusOneMovement.
+ONE Partner Organizations
Working together to encourage responsible mentorship in local communities.
FIND A RANGE
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Deer Hunting
Hear the words “deer hunting” and you’ll likely think of the ubiquitous whitetail—and for good reason. You can find this species in 44 states, usually in plentiful numbers on private and public lands. In five of the six states the whitetail doesn’t call home, you can still deer hunt, but in Alaska and California it will be for the elusive black-tail, Nevada and Utah are home on the range for mule deer, and Coues deer have Arizona for an address. (Trivia: The only state that lacks a native deer population is Hawaii!).
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Pheasants
With a helicopter rise at the flush preceding its zippy horizontal flight for yonder, a long tail that’s distracted more than a few hunters to miss and a cackle that mocks when you do, this gaudy bird reigns the world of upland bird hunting. So popular is this bird in the vast plains of the Midwest that opening day is legitimate cause to skip school, work, church and afternoon college football. If you’ve ever been to an opening day in Pierre, South Dakota, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Elk
Considered one of the most majestic animals on the continent, the Rocky Mountain elk is emblematic of western hunting. From the bugling of herd bull monarchs keeping their harems of cows in line to the breathtaking vistas and, oh, those towering tiers of antlers, this is a prized experience for anyone with the patience to hike the miles and put the hours in behind a binocular to plan a stall. Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah are always top destinations, but reintroduced populations in states like Kansas, Kentucky,
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Wild Turkeys
They’re not just for Thanksgiving anymore! In fact, America’s wild turkeys are as much a sign that spring is here as the Easter bunny. With eyesight that puts an eagle to shame and an all-too-often reluctance to come within range despite the lively “conversation” between bird and a hunter’s slate call, spring turkey seasons are a challenge that see camo-clad, shotgunners head to the woods and fields in droves.
Hunting ACTIVITIES
Waterfowl
Four flyways, colorful species small and large, the art of the decoy and the thrill of a Labrador retriever leaping over the boat’s bow to make an enthusiastic retrieve of goose or duck make waterfowling one of the most thrilling hunting sports around. It’s also one of the oldest—drawings of waterfowl have been found in Ice Age caves, Egyptian tombs and even the artwork of B.C.-era Peru. America’s earliest settlers from “across the pond” found their new home in the East boasted a nearly unlimited supply of ducks, geese and swans—good eating for starving Colonials.
Find a preserve
WHERE TO HUNT
Wingshooting
Hunting preserves—private, regulated properties that stock game animals—are a great resource for hunters. They provide a controlled environment and an increased chance for success. Big-game preserves often include one-on-one guiding, great for novices, while upland bird preserves are a favorite for training young bird dogs.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Hunting Basics And Tips
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Hunting safety is the first priorityWatch a safety video or take a hunter education course to learn more. |
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Read hunting laws and regulationsHunting laws and regulations vary from state to state. Learn more. |
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Wear proper hunting gearThe more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll hunt and the better the chances for success. |
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Essential hunting equipmentCheck out where to buy hunting firearms and ammo for your next trip. |
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Go with a friendInvite someone new hunting. Check out the apprenticeship hunting program. |
Obtaining A Hunting License
Hunting licenses can be purchased at various places, including local firearms retailers and angler supply stores, as well as directly from the local wildlife management departments online. States usually require hunters to take a hunter education course before they take to the woods, but many make exceptions if the hunter will be accompanied by a fully licensed and experienced hunter through an apprenticeship program.
10 Trending Hunting Tweets This Week
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Five majestic beasts (and one photobomber). #WapitiWednesday presented by @lacrosse1897 #rmef #elk #huntingisconservation pic.twitter.com/kDudGhzt56
— Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) March 12, 2025
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Spring is in the air!🤞 for a productive nesting season across pheasant country.
🎥: Jordan Bennett pic.twitter.com/IOja1KTaoF — Pheasants Forever (@pheasants4ever) March 11, 2025
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View this post on InstagramA post shared by Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society (@ruffedgrousesociety)
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In a buckskin outfit and knee-high boots, this hunter holds a shoulder cannon nearly as long as he is tall. What’s your guess on that rifle for #whatriflewednesday? pic.twitter.com/RBEmaZWDkx
— Boone and Crockett Club (@BC_Club1887) March 12, 2025
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Predator management is a must! Read about coyote hunting for the sake of your deer herd here.https://t.co/ryMzOncXQH pic.twitter.com/aSmcixpyfG
— N.A. Whitetail (@NAWhitetail) March 14, 2025
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POV: It's going to be a good morning. 📸: @DruryOutdoors pic.twitter.com/hgSAUHNpDk
— Cabela's (@Cabelas) March 14, 2025
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These moments in the turkey woods are the ones that last forever. @TylerJordan #Realtree pic.twitter.com/HzZKGkBz6H
— Realtree (@Realtree) March 13, 2025
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Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.Still buffering.....🦬 pic.twitter.com/z2Ooybs5JR
— National Park Service (@NatlParkService) March 13, 2025
10 Trending Hunting Posts This Week
February 28, 2025
Excise taxes in action, almost turkey time, conservation partnerships and more! Here are some of the top trending social media posts:
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Elk are a big deal in Pennsylvania! 🦌✨ With a thriving tourism industry and a deep-rooted elk culture, these majestic creatures are at the heart of wildlife conservation efforts in the state. Thanks to Pitman-Robertson funding, state agencies can maintain healthy elk… pic.twitter.com/IWEpHaKWza- NSSF-The Firearm Industry Trade Association (@NSSF) February 28, 2025
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Pheasant Fact Friday 💡A pheasant's typical winter day - The pheasant will spend its nights in grassy cover or wetlands. About 30 minutes before sunrise, he and his rooster friends move out to feed in harvested grain fields or, better yet, unharvested food plots. Pheasants… pic.twitter.com/aER2XYcoxg
- Pheasants Forever (@pheasants4ever) February 21, 2025
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Eastern Nevada recently welcomed 90 wild turkeys from Utah as part of an ongoing effort to supplement struggling populations in the state.https://t.co/RM5s6JGhlZ- The National Wild Turkey Federation (@NWTF_official) February 25, 2025
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This is a tintype photograph of a market hunter from the late 1800s. Any idea on what rifle he's holding for #whatriflewednesday? We'll post the correct answer tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/TXrJOVyaZF- Boone and Crockett Club (@BC_Club1887) February 26, 2025
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View this post on Instagram
A post shared by National Deer Association (@deerassociation)
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"I'm not old. I'm ancient. Turning 60, 70, even 80, didn't really phase me. But 90! It just seems impossible." Yes, Roger Long is still chasing elk at the age of 90. Read about his tale via Bugle magazine➡️https://t.co/KO4pp0l4lh #rmef #hunting #huntingisconservation pic.twitter.com/qP25WUDkT2- Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) February 26, 2025
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A coalition of five leading conservation organizations, in partnership with Will Primos, has launched The Truth About Conservation-a campaign and historic firearm auction to highlight the critical need for wildlife habitat management and raise funds for conservation. The auction… pic.twitter.com/61Z8nM0ZQa- Ducks Unlimited (@DucksUnlimited) February 27, 2025
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View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Wild Sheep Foundation (@wildsheepfoundation)
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The best new turkey shotguns (+ ammo loads, accessories and more) were on full display at @NWTF_official this year.Check out our full run down. https://t.co/B2rhwkBo4k
- Hook & Barrel Magazine (@HookBarrelMag) February 27, 2025
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With turkey seasons getting ready to fire up across the states, now is the time to get ready for a more successful season. Here's some tips via @GameAndFishMag: https://t.co/h1Xt3nNdhB#FindYourAdventure #outdoors #hunting #wildturkey #turkeyhunting #tips #turkeyseason pic.twitter.com/hMQN1nUjXE- Outdoor Channel (@OUTDChannel) February 27, 2025
Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.
How Pittman-Robertson Funding Helps Keep America’s Elk Herds Thriving
https://youtu.be/yjGRitBCQAI?si=jPEw93wq-j_V3AfU
A new video in the Partner with a Payer® series highlights how Pittman-Robertson funds have contributed to the restoration and management of Pennsylvania’s elk herd, an effort that mirrors similar success stories across the country. Thanks to the excise taxes paid by firearms, ammunition and archery manufacturers—matched with the dollars spent on hunting licenses—state wildlife agencies have been able to restore elk populations, improve habitat and ensure that future generations will continue to have opportunities to experience these incredible animals.Pennsylvania’s Elk Success Story
Elk were once abundant in Pennsylvania, but overhunting and habitat loss in the 1800s nearly wiped them out. Thanks to conservation funding, including Pittman-Robertson dollars, the state successfully reintroduced elk in the early 1900s. Today, Pennsylvania boasts a thriving herd of 1,400 to 1,500 elk, attracting hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike. “With any wildlife species and especially our precious elk here in Pennsylvania, it's the primary economic driver of this whole area,” said David Gustafson, Director, Bureau of Wildlife Habitat Management, Pennsylvania Game Commission. “The visitation, the tourism from elk helps engage the greater public with wildlife and our mission as an agency.” Each year, Pennsylvania hunters eagerly apply for a coveted elk tag, helping to manage the herd responsibly while also funding future conservation efforts. But the impact of Pittman-Robertson funding isn’t just limited to Pennsylvania—this funding model has helped restore elk herds across the country, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Western Plains.How Hunters and Manufacturers Keep Conservation Thriving
Through the Pittman-Robertson Act, a 10-11% excise tax is placed on the sale of firearms, ammunition and archery equipment, with those funds being directed to state wildlife agencies for conservation projects, habitat restoration, hunter education and shooting range development. Companies like Beretta USA, a long-time supporter of conservation efforts, recently sent a team to Pennsylvania to see firsthand how their contributions are being used to sustain the elk population. “Because of the Pittman-Robertson Act, they were able to fund the habitat for the reintroduction of elk. Now they actually have a huntable population,” said Joe Cunniffe, Brand Marketing Manager, Hunting, Beretta USA. “We cannot have places to go and spend time in the outdoors without the conservation efforts from the excise tax dollars,” added David Armistead, Manufacturing Manager, Beretta USA. The work doesn’t stop with elk—Pittman-Robertson funds support conservation for deer, waterfowl, upland birds and countless other game species. Whether you hunt elk in the mountains, whitetails in the Midwest or turkeys in the South, the dollars you spend on firearms, ammunition and licenses help sustain the future of hunting and wildlife conservation.Why This Matters for Every Hunter
The next time you step into the field, remember that the very landscapes and wildlife populations we enjoy today exist because of a conservation funding model that hunters and industry have supported for decades. Pittman-Robertson funding is proof that hunters are the original conservationists and our continued support of this system ensures that elk and other wildlife will thrive for generations to come.You may also be interested in https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/explore-hunting/understanding-the-crucial-relationship-between-firearm-manufacturers-and-wildlife-conservation/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/hunter-education/archery-fuels-conservation-through-excise-taxes/
Bringing New Hunters Afield: Inside NDA's First Field to Fork Rifle Event on a Refuge
Bringing New Hunters into the Outdoors
Pennsylvania held its first Field to Fork rifle event at Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Stroudsburg, PA. Organized by the National Deer Association (NDA) and supported by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and NSSF, this event provided a unique opportunity for adults from non-hunting backgrounds to experience deer hunting in a mentored setting.
This event was held in support of the NSSF's +One® Movement, which challenges hunters to become mentors, helping to secure the future of hunting and shooting sports. A Hunting Heritage Grant from the NSSF provided rifles for the participants. Additional support was provided by The Pennsylvania Game Commission and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
A First-Time Rifle Hunt for New Hunters
For many participants, this was their first time hunting with a rifle. Pennsylvania has a rich tradition of deer hunting and rifle season holds a special place in the state's outdoor culture. Expanding Field to Fork into the rifle season meant that more newcomers had the chance to learn, practice marksmanship and ultimately experience their first hunt in a controlled, educational environment.
The event took place at the Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a former agricultural farm and golf course now undergoing habitat restoration. With a focus on conservation and sustainable land management, this refuge serves as an ideal setting to demonstrate how responsible hunting supports wildlife populations and land stewardship.
More Than Just the Hunt
Field to Fork events go beyond simply teaching new hunters how to harvest a deer-they emphasize the ethics, values and skills necessary to become responsible members of the hunting community. Participants learn about safety, tracking, deer behavior and ethical shot placement. For some, this experience was a culmination of multiple mentored hunts, showcasing the persistence and dedication required to become a successful hunter.
[caption id="attachment_65566" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Field to Fork Mentor Keith Doyle in the blind with new hunter Nina.[/caption]
One participant, Nina, had attended several mentored hunts before but had yet to harvest a deer. Instead of giving up, she remained determined, continually learning from mentors and refining her skills. Her resilience reflects the true spirit of hunting-patience, perseverance and respect for the process.
[caption id="attachment_65569" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
New hunter Justin with Field to Fork mentor and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rep Matt Falteich.[/caption]
For another participant, Justin, the moment of taking his first deer was overwhelming. As soon as he made a successful shot, his mentor, Matt, stood up, cheered and embraced him-a moment of shared excitement that highlights the importance of mentorship in the hunting tradition. "That made it ten times better-sharing that with somebody," Justin said
Mentorship and Conservation: A Lasting Impact
Many participants in the Field to Fork program expressed interest in giving back by mentoring others. The value of a supportive hunting community was a recurring theme, as new hunters spoke about the confidence gained through hands-on learning with experienced mentors.
Additionally, the event reinforced the connection between hunting and conservation. Venison is not only a nutritious and sustainable food source, but responsible hunting also plays a critical role in maintaining balanced deer populations and healthy ecosystems. By participating in ethical hunting practices, new hunters become active contributors to conservation efforts.
A Path Forward for Hunting's Future
Programs like Field to Fork are vital in ensuring that hunting remains a strong and sustainable tradition. By removing barriers to entry-such as access to land, equipment and experienced mentors-these initiatives make hunting more accessible to a new generation.
For those in Pennsylvania looking to get involved in hunting, visit www.HuntDeerPA.com for more information on local programs and opportunities. To learn more about Field to Fork and how you can participate or support the program, visit National Deer Association's Field to Fork page.
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or someone looking for a way to get started, mentoring or participating in a Field to Fork event is a powerful way to contribute to the future of hunting. These experiences create lifelong hunters, strengthen conservation efforts and ensure that hunting remains a valued part of our outdoor heritage.
Deer Hunting 101
Online Course
The Official NDA Deer Hunting Course will teach you where to hunt, deer hunting tips and strategies, the best rifle for hunting deer, and much more.
10 Trending Hunting Social Media Posts
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Three moose on the go! pic.twitter.com/4OLsfeeKN6
— SPYPOINT Trail Cameras (@SpypointCamera) February 10, 2025
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Teaching your dog to heel has value in town, at home, and in the field. Scott Linden of @WingshootingUSA provides some tips and tricks to help your pup learn.https://t.co/PLepr3MNwf
— @MidwayUSA (@MidwayUSA) February 10, 2025
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Doing what we came HERE TO DO! SO CLOSE! . .@SafariClubIntl pic.twitter.com/YPb4EHdjoM
— Jim Shockey (@JimShockey_) February 10, 2025
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The sweet sounds of spring!
📸: @druryoutdoors pic.twitter.com/gUNaHl4rt4 — Cabela's (@Cabelas) February 11, 2025
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Spreading the LOVE for our incredible Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation volunteers & members who help advance our mission of ensuring the future of elk, wildlife, their habitat, and our hunting heritage. 🤜🤛#ValentinesDay #happyvalentinesday2025 #rmef #elk #huntingisconservation pic.twitter.com/TVR7UfRHz0
— Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) February 14, 2025
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The National Wild Turkey Federation congratulates Department of Interior Sec. Doug Burgum, former Governor of North Dakota, on his bipartisan confirmation by the U.S. Senate. In this role, he will oversee the National Park Service. Read More: https://t.co/p3aZf6Bze0
— The National Wild Turkey Federation (@NWTF_official) February 10, 2025
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The Bird Dog Parade is the grand opening of the nation’s largest upland hunting event, and displays the incredible diversity of sporting dog breeds. We are still looking for a handful of breeds to help us fill out our roster of bird dogs for the parade, including: Airedale… pic.twitter.com/u6r2GpAQll
— Pheasants Forever (@pheasants4ever) February 13, 2025
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Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.Once just a few thousand, Alabama’s whitetail population now approaches two million. Hunters are key to keeping the balance. Discover more about this success story! https://t.co/Pwej4in4Mb
— Boone and Crockett Club (@BC_Club1887) February 13, 2025
11 Hot Hunting Social Media Posts
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Cheers to the incredible women of #SCINashville who made the Women Go Hunting Mix & Mingle unforgettable! 🥂 From once-in-a-lifetime auction items to @LDWF's Madison Sheehan’s inspiring message and a global gathering of women - this event truly had it all. Here’s to celebrating… pic.twitter.com/TdgsHMsT3P
— Safari Club International (@SafariClubIntl) February 3, 2025
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Shiras’ moose now roam Nevada, thanks to effective wildlife management! 🌿 Sustainable hunting supports conservation and habitat health. Curious to learn more about this success story? Visit here: https://t.co/xr0tpG5J3N
— Boone and Crockett Club (@BC_Club1887) February 6, 2025
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Ducks Unlimited and its Conservation Programs Committee congratulate the winners of the 2024 Excellence in Conservation Awards. @DUConserve https://t.co/lYx1qmyziS
— Ducks Unlimited (@DucksUnlimited) February 6, 2025
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Shooting lanes and Mock Scrapes work great together!🦌 #deer #deerhunting pic.twitter.com/wp4EEGqwjk
— Deer & Deer Hunting (@deerhuntingmag) February 6, 2025
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(1/2) RESCUE STORY! ⛑️ When Wildlife Manager Matthew Binney got a call about an elk that fell into a ditch, Matt quickly hatched a plan. After chemically immobilizing the elk, he used a few vehicle tow straps and a nearby excavator to pull the elk back to safety. pic.twitter.com/GcY4PiR4Mo
— Arizona Game & Fish (@azgfd) February 5, 2025
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That Straight on look that hides his 5th point on both sides. pic.twitter.com/fVHQxtGouv
— The Freedom Wild (@TheFreedomWild) February 5, 2025
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Ice skating turkeys? I think we have seen it all! 📸: @Druryoutdoors pic.twitter.com/S38R0O8pwm
— Cabela's (@Cabelas) February 4, 2025
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These days, elk aren't very happy with Mr. Groundhog. #rmef #elk #huntingisconservation pic.twitter.com/Is1AqHRHxr
— Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) February 4, 2025
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Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.View this post on InstagramA post shared by NSSF - The Firearm Industry Trade Association (@thenssf)