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
| 1 |
Hunting safety is the first priorityWatch a safety video or take a hunter education course to learn more. |
| 2 |
Read hunting laws and regulationsHunting laws and regulations vary from state to state. Learn more. |
| 3 |
Wear proper hunting gearThe more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll hunt and the better the chances for success. |
| 4 |
Essential hunting equipmentCheck out where to buy hunting firearms and ammo for your next trip. |
| 5 |
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.
Celebrate National Hunting & Fishing Day
Celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day!
On the fourth Saturday of every September, NHF Day recognizes generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to the conservation of our nation’s rich sporting heritage and natural resources. 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. Now on its 51st year, NHF Day is the largest, most effective grassroots movement ever undertaken to promote outdoor sports and conservation. Launched by Congress in 1971 and heavily promoted by NSSF for decades, NHF Day is now administered by Wonders of Wildlife Museum and has consistently recognized hunters and anglers for their leadership in wildlife and conservation. Find national, state, regional and local organizations hosting related events.Get Started
Hunting, Fishing, and Shooting Sports are not just great American pastimes – they are the very foundation that supports the model of wildlife conservation created more than a century ago in this country. By introducing new audiences to these activities, we ensure that wildlife and wild places will be protected for generations to come. Hunting is a useful and beneficial wildlife management tool that ensures and maintains the health and abundance of game species and the balance of our natural resources. There are a number of species, from upland birds to big game animals to hunt. Learn more about these species from game bird and game animal organizations.Take the Pledge
Take the pledge and submit a photo of you engaging in outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, or shooting to enter our exclusive NHF Day giveaway featuring a custom hat, stickers, and a Bass Pro Shops gift card!Share Your Images
Upload an image of you hunting, fishing or target shooting and tag @NHFday on social media using the hashtag #GuideToOutside or Upload an image to be featured here!
10 Interesting Hunting Social Media Posts This Week
1.
Rare Albino Moose.
Located in Alaska—Awesome to see. 🎥: @thealaskalife #TheLegendLives #AlbinoMoose #Outdoors pic.twitter.com/fBDOYlm8fE — Field & Stream (@FieldandStream) October 1, 2024
2.
Babe Ruth didn't just set records on the baseball field. ⚾️https://t.co/Zf1pxXDzCs
— Deer & Deer Hunting (@deerhuntingmag) October 3, 2024
3.
4.
5.
WATCH: Opening Day: Minnesota. Link below!
The first installment of our new annual Opening Day film. This year’s story features Bob St. Pierre and the Hildebrand Family. This film is about friendship, family, and the importance in passing on our bird hunting traditions. This is… pic.twitter.com/MtrjHVKUlT — Quail Forever (@quail4ever) October 3, 2024
6.
Somebody say ROOSTER? pic.twitter.com/51sRJxeqaX
— Cabela's (@Cabelas) October 2, 2024
7.
I think this is one of the largest Eurasian brown bears that I have ever caught on camera. #Transylvania #wildlife #cameratrap #trailcamera #brownbear pic.twitter.com/D8Pdx1sPaH
— Paul White (@p_aulwhite) October 2, 2024
8.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by El Chaparral Ranch ®Official (@elchaparralranchofficial)
9.
10.
Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.Like and share if this is you! - Public Land Whitetails #ITSINOURBLOOD #outdoors #deer #deerseason #trailcam #picture #whitetail #trailcampic pic.twitter.com/xBB6bJy8CT
— Sportsman Channel (@SPORTSMANchnl) October 2, 2024
9 Eye-Catching Hunting Tweets This Week
1.
It's September, of course we had to share one of our favorite elk covers circa 1922.
Tap the link if you’re interested in owning this cover: https://t.co/92yroA2piG #elk #elkhunting #elkseason #bullelk #outdoors #outdoorlife #coverart #magazinecover pic.twitter.com/VNGe7RtUb6 — Outdoor Life (@outdoorlife) September 9, 2024
2.
MAJESTIC, MAGICAL and MAGNIFICENT!
THIS IS WHY… . .#Yukon @rogueriveroutfittersyukon pic.twitter.com/iYuRjI437L — Jim Shockey (@JimShockey_) September 8, 2024
3.
Dialed in. pic.twitter.com/l3T02j0yZk
— Springfield Armory® (@Springfield_Inc) September 7, 2024
4.
We are less than a month away from opening day here in Iowa🔥 Who has already been hunting this year?? #ozonics #ozonicshunting #hunting #bigbucks #iowa #hr600 #bowhunting pic.twitter.com/HeuSeMCrv6
— Ozonics Hunting (@OzonicsHunting) September 10, 2024
5.
Ducks Unlimited released their State Waterfowl Survey, giving waterfowlers a peek at what to expect this season. Here are the 24-25 duck numbers via WILDFOWL Magazine: https://t.co/dCRxbML1cI#FindYourAdventure #outdoors #duck #duckseason #ducks #ducksunlimited #numbers pic.twitter.com/tnnsRo70cf
— Outdoor Channel (@OUTDChannel) September 11, 2024
6.
How to Grip a Compound Bow for Better Hunting Accuracy https://t.co/nb1tQ96kAx
— Outdoor Life (@outdoorlife) September 11, 2024
7.
Adventure awaits. . . .#hornady #hornadyammo pic.twitter.com/J8HSAgCFMn
— Hornady (@TeamHornady) September 10, 2024
8.
Stocking up for winter...#spypoint #trailcamera #trailcam #whatgetsyououtdoors #gamecamera #trailcams #whyispypoint #trailcameras pic.twitter.com/m8GCPv5oRx
— SPYPOINT Trail Cameras (@SpypointCamera) September 10, 2024
9.
Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting community.Do you have history with a buck you are after this season? - @deersociety #ITSINOURBLOOD #outdoors #deer #deerseason #history #whitetail #whitetaildeer pic.twitter.com/EJu77K3UwZ
— Sportsman Channel (@SPORTSMANchnl) September 13, 2024
10 Early Season Hunting Tweets You Should See This Week
1.
Congrats to 8-year-old Connor Jackson who killed this Aiken County Beast!!! Way to go young man! - Shared by Carolina Sportsman#ITSINOURBLOOD #hunting #outdoors #deer #deerseason #whitetail #velvet #velvetbuck #southcarolina pic.twitter.com/vj5WSkW3z3
— Sportsman Channel (@SPORTSMANchnl) September 1, 2024
2.
Start them young 🗣️
They will never forget these moments. 🎥: @nicolenorth_00#LegendsInTheMaking #ElkHunting #KidsOfTheOutdoors pic.twitter.com/UGFxahXCwt — Field & Stream (@FieldandStream) August 30, 2024
3.
“There’s something special about an early season, archery antelope hunt. It sets you up for the fall like no other hunt. You have to shoot well, make precise movements, and not be seen. If you don’t, you’ll quickly be reminded.” - Identical Draw pic.twitter.com/nkVftdjeGF
— Vortex Optics (@VortexOptics) September 3, 2024
4.
BACK FROM SPIKE CAMP WITH OUR CARIBOU SHED ANTLER HAUL! #yukon pic.twitter.com/PgXtQH6mYz
— Jim Shockey (@JimShockey_) September 6, 2024
5.
It is officially 'Safety Click & Tail Wag' eve.
We hope everyone out in the field for Opening Day of Dove Season stays safe and finds success 🐦 🎥: @grumpyduckco #TheLegendLives #DoveSeason #Hunting #LaborDay pic.twitter.com/64Vj0AoMPo — Field & Stream (@FieldandStream) August 31, 2024
6.
The National Wild Turkey Federation is hosting its Conservation Week Sept. 22-28 to bring awareness and excitement around natural resources conservation and the critical role hunters play in creating Healthy Habitats and Health Harvests. Read More: https://t.co/1SBP7xnhYE
— The National Wild Turkey Federation (@NWTF_official) September 6, 2024
7.
Are you shooting or are you passing?! 📸: @DruryOutdoors pic.twitter.com/5GCY7bPe7v
— Cabela's (@Cabelas) September 4, 2024
8.
Finally, a traffic jam worth tolerating. #estespark #colorado #rmef #elk #huntingisconservation pic.twitter.com/9Sdk7vzrUx
— Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) September 3, 2024
9.
Happy #NationalWildlifeDay! Did you know Arizona is the most biologically diverse inland state and home to 800+ species? To learn more about our science-based wildlife conservation efforts, visit https://t.co/fYKVEGVsni pic.twitter.com/q4LdWWjws0
— Arizona Game & Fish (@azgfd) September 4, 2024
10.
Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting communityGetting our rattling horns ready.#Realtree #RealtreeAPX pic.twitter.com/PhmiiSuRhU
— Realtree (@Realtree) September 6, 2024
Top 9 Must-Read Outdoor Tweets This Week
1.
Show Time! #eastmans pic.twitter.com/YlkIVbTQyH
— Eastmans' Hunting (@eastmans) August 27, 2024
2.
Congrats to Mark from @TheGivenRight - Hunting on his dandy early season 205" Velvet Muley. Now that is how you start off a season! #ITSINOURBLOOD #hunting #outdoors #deer #deerseason #muledeer #muleyhunting pic.twitter.com/h1uReCSxCB
— Sportsman Channel (@SPORTSMANchnl) August 26, 2024
3.
RMEF after dark. #rmef #elk #huntingisconservation #SaturdayMood pic.twitter.com/Us5yvq7wc2
— Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (@RMEF) August 18, 2024
4.
VELVET MONSTER SPOTTED IN IOWA😳 They don’t call it ‘Land of the Giants’ for nothing… Wow. Video: David Blum pic.twitter.com/IyoKMEEpZ2
— Drury Outdoors (@DruryOutdoors) August 20, 2024
5.
Duck hunters watching their fishing buddies, patiently waiting on hunting season.
🎥: @meatball_summit#TheLegendLives #GoodDog #Fishing #Hunting #Outdoors pic.twitter.com/NCLW9Sqd9L — Field & Stream (@FieldandStream) August 24, 2024
6.
The wait is almost over.#Realtree pic.twitter.com/8GgaK3M7VJ
— Realtree (@Realtree) August 27, 2024
7.
Happy National Dog Day from the good girls and boys here at Vortex HQ! #VortexNation #VortexOptics #NationalDogDay #Dog #BestFriend pic.twitter.com/GwC7jYVrg5
— Vortex Optics (@VortexOptics) August 26, 2024
8.
No words needed.#eastmans pic.twitter.com/w9dEY5pDoB
— Eastmans' Hunting (@eastmans) August 25, 2024
9.
Follow LetsGoHunting on twitter and stay tuned for more updates from the hunting communityHere are the 3 most important things for antler growth! #deer #deerhunting pic.twitter.com/4NUcr6hFy8
— Deer & Deer Hunting (@deerhuntingmag) August 25, 2024
13 Awesome Turkey Hunting Stories from this Spring Season
Hunters Register 50,435 Wild Turkeys in 2024 Spring Season, Fourth Highest in History
[caption id="attachment_53877" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
Dylan Hazen[/caption]
Hunters registered 50,435 wild turkeys in Wisconsin's 2024 spring season, a 22% increase over the five-year average and the fourth highest in state history, reflecting the state's strong turkey population and favorable conditions. Mild winters and warm, dry springs contributed to excellent adult survival and nesting success, leading to more turkeys on the landscape. The 2024 season marks the fourth time Wisconsin hunters have harvested over 50,000 turkeys, with similar successes noted in neighboring states. The Wisconsin DNR's turkey management strategies, validated by these results, continue to support sustainable hunting practices and population growth. Read full article.
Bountiful Minnesota Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Sets Records
[caption id="attachment_53879" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
Bill Marchel[/caption]
Minnesota wild turkey hunters achieved a record harvest this spring, bagging over 16,600 birds, a 19% increase from the previous record. Contributing factors included an abundance of gobblers and favorable weather conditions, leading to greater opportunities for hunters. Youth participation also rose significantly, with notable increases in license sales, particularly among younger hunters. This success is attributed to ideal nesting conditions and mild winter, which helped more turkeys survive and thrive. Read the full article.
Hunters of Color Is on a Mission to Make the Outdoors More Accessible to Minorities — Whether the Hunting Community Is Ready or Not
[caption id="attachment_53876" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
Photo courtesy HOC[/caption]
The article highlights the challenges and mission of Hunters of Color (HOC), an organization aiming to create equal opportunities in hunting for underrepresented groups. Founded by Jimmy Flatt, HOC focuses on providing mentorship and fostering a diverse outdoors community. Participants like Johnson and Hentati, who lacked hunting mentors growing up, find support and guidance through HOC, which also emphasizes conservation. Despite facing barriers, including a predominantly white hunting culture and racial incidents, HOC persists in promoting inclusivity and expanding hunting opportunities for people of color. Read the full article.
Juggling Motherhood and the Adventure
This article highlights the challenges and rewards of hunting moms. It reveals that women have been hunters for centuries and showcases the modern-day balancing act between motherhood and outdoor pursuits. Through personal stories, like a memorable turkey hunt with a pregnant friend, the article emphasizes the need for strategic planning and support. It inspires readers by underscoring the importance of nurturing personal passions while fulfilling family responsibilities. Read the full article to explore these compelling experiences and insights. Read the full article.
Reviving the Roost: Roscoe Spaulding’s Legacy in West Virginia Turkey Hunting
[caption id="attachment_53882" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
Roscoe Spaulding[/caption]
Discover how Roscoe Spaulding revitalized Wayne County's turkey population and became a legendary mentor in the hunting community. Learn about his unique methods of raising and releasing turkey chicks and his lifelong dedication to teaching others the art of turkey hunting. Dive into the story of the inaugural Roscoe Spaulding Memorial Turkey Hunt, an event honoring his legacy and funding a headstone and future scholarship, showcasing the lasting impact of this remarkable conservationist and community figure. Read the full article.
2024 Turkey Season in Review: Eastern Gobbler Rebound, Bearded Hens, Late Gobbling, and Vienna Sausages
The author reflects on an exceptional turkey hunting season, spanning 30 days across various states from late March to early May. He notes an encouraging rebound in turkey populations in many areas, with harvest statistics showing increases, despite mixed impacts from regulatory changes. The author emphasizes the role of predation and habitat quality in turkey declines, advocating for better private land management. He also highlights the importance of perseverance when hunting, sharing anecdotes of successful hunts after initial setbacks, and concludes with observations on the effectiveness of different calling techniques and the variability of late-season gobbling patterns. Read the full article.
Halfway there: Winner of Florida raffle now halfway to slam
Jeff Neill has several years’ experience hunting turkeys in his native Wisconsin, but traveling the country and encountering the different strategies that go along with differing terrain has heated his passion for the springtime pursuit to a fever pitch. The experience has kindled a fire in the adventurer’s soul for Neill. With Easterns and now an Osceola to his credit, he’s halfway to the Wild Turkey Grand Slam. Read the full article.
8-Year-Old’s First Turkey Is a Smoke-Phase Bearded Hen
Eight-year-old Vaughn Siver bagged a rare bearded hen with smoke-phase coloration during his first turkey hunt in early May in western South Dakota, accompanied by his dad, Cody. After setting up camp and scouting, they set up ground blinds and, despite initial challenges, Vaughn successfully shot the unique bird. Cody also managed to fill his tag by shooting a tom later. The experience, marked by the discovery of the rare leucistic turkey, made the hunt unforgettable for Vaughn, who enjoyed both the hunt and the camping adventure. Read the full article.
Senior Solutions
Laurie Lee Dovey offers a compelling look at how senior hunters adapt to the physical challenges of aging while maintaining their passion for the sport. At 69, the author shares insights from seasoned hunters like Brad Harris and Brenda Valentine, who emphasize the importance of self-assessment and adaptive equipment such as hearing aids, scopes, and lighter shotguns. The article highlights strategies for coping with declining mobility and senses, and the value of simplicity and patience in hunting. It encourages older hunters to embrace their limitations, use innovative tools, and savor the experience. Read the full article to discover how age can enhance, rather than hinder, the joy of turkey hunting. Read the full article.
Osceola Turkeys: Thunder in the Palms
In "Osceola Turkeys: Thunder in the Palms," Joe Ferronato recounts his thrilling adventure hunting Osceola turkeys in Florida. Initially skeptical, he joins expert guide Mike Tussey, navigating dense forests and tropical storms. The article highlights the adrenaline of close encounters with these elusive birds and the challenges of the unique Florida ecosystem. Ferronato's newfound respect for turkey hunting and detailed gear insights make this a captivating read for hunting enthusiasts. Dive into the full story for an immersive experience of the Osceola turkey hunt. Read the full article.
On The Ridge with Joe Judd: More successful tales from the hunt
The article reflects on the joy and memories created during the 2024 wild turkey hunting season, which has been successful for both young and seasoned hunters in Franklin County. The author emphasizes that the greatest moments in turkey hunting are not just about the harvest but about sharing the experience with family and friends and passing on the tradition to the next generation. A highlight of the season is the story of Joe Warger and his son Casey, who reunited for a memorable hunt after nine years, exemplifying the deep bonds and cherished memories formed through turkey hunting. The article underscores the profound connection and joy that hunters feel when they engage with nature and share these experiences with loved ones. Read the full article.
Turkey Season was an Experience
The 2024 Spring Turkey season was memorable for the author, although no turkeys were harvested. Despite the lack of a successful hunt, the author cherished various experiences such as hearing turkey drumming, encountering wildlife, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Memorable moments included observing turkeys, dealing with unpredictable weather, and encountering snakes and turtles. The author emphasizes the joy of being in nature and looks forward to future outdoor activities and habitat work. Read the full article.
State of the Wild Turkey 2024: An Interview with Dr. Mike Chamberlain
[caption id="attachment_53889" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
John Hafner Photography[/caption]
Dr. Mike Chamberlain, known as the "Turkey Doctor," provided an update on the state of wild turkeys, noting mixed observations from the 2024 season. While some areas, like Arkansas, show signs of population recovery, other regions, particularly in the Southeast and Midwest, continue to experience declines. He emphasized the importance of ongoing research, which is currently more extensive and collaborative than ever, aimed at understanding and addressing factors affecting turkey populations. Chamberlain remains cautiously optimistic, highlighting that comprehensive and standardized research will eventually yield the answers needed to stabilize and improve wild turkey numbers. Read the full article.
The 2024 spring turkey hunting season has been filled with unforgettable moments and significant achievements, reflecting the vitality of turkey populations and the enthusiasm of hunters nationwide. Whether it's the record-setting harvests, the inclusive efforts of organizations like Hunters of Color, or the touching memorial hunts honoring legends like Roscoe Spaulding, these stories capture the essence of the hunting community. As we look forward to future seasons, these tales remind us of the importance of conservation, mentorship, and the shared joy of experiencing the great outdoors.
You may also be interested in:
The 2024 NWTF Spring Hunt Guide: About Wild Turkeys
The 2024 NWTF Spring Hunt Guide provides a glimpse of each state’s spring wild turkey season. The spring forecast shows the states’ estimated wild turkey population, as well as wild turkey harvest data from the previous season. Some states do not report population estimates due to unavailable data, and some season dates and/or bag limits are too specific to fully list (check regulations). All hunters should review the full regulations of the state in which they are hunting before going afield.