How to Get Started Coyote Hunting

 

New “Partner with a Payer” Video Highlights Important Collaboration with Archery Manufacturers and Wildlife Agencies

NSSF^®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, in partnership with TenPoint Archery, Archery Trade Association, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, has released another film in the “Partner with a Payer^®” series—a collection of videos highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation and management. The Partner with a Payer Program connects the dots from how excise tax dollars are generated to how they are used to sustain healthy wildlife populations.

https://youtu.be/4Y1mCr8Kcoo

The latest video, “Conservation Success at the Crossroads of Collaboration,” highlights the work being done to continue providing public access to target ranges, hunting opportunities and other outdoor experiences within the United States.

Funding Conservation: A Collective Effort

In the heart of collaborative efforts between firearm industry leaders, archery manufacturers, and wildlife conservation agencies lies an important component for hunters and target shooters alike – the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, also known as the Pittman-Robertson Act. This act mandates excise taxes, a financial contribution by firearm and ammunition manufacturers on their products, as well as archery equipment manufacturers, to fund wildlife conservation and management programs across the United States. Representatives from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Archery Trade Association and USFWS came together to tour the TenPoint Archery Facility, where they learned what it takes to generate the excise tax revenues supporting wildlife populations across the country. Throughout the tour, state and federal agency staff discussed specific projects and key instances where funds provided opportunities for the public to hunt, target shoot and enjoy the diverse wildlife in the United States. [caption id="attachment_53686" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Excise taxes fund wildlife research for the sustainable maintenance of healthy wildlife populations.[/caption] The excise taxes established under the Pittman-Robertson Act have been a driving force, contributing over $16.4 billion (over $25 billion adjusted for inflation) to individual states. In this video, Peter Novotny, Deputy Chief of the Ohio Division of Wildlife, highlights how these funds, combined with hunting and fishing license dollars, fund essential wildlife research. This research enables a deeper understanding of how wildlife populations adapt to a changing environment, ultimately leading to the maintenance of healthy and sustainable populations.

The Ripple Effect for Hunters and Shooters

For hunters and target shooters, the implications of excise taxes are far-reaching. The funds derived from these taxes play an important role in maintaining shooting ranges, archery facilities, and wildlife habitats, ensuring a rich and diverse outdoor experience. The collaborative efforts between industry leaders, state agencies, and federal organizations exemplify the commitment to sustaining the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. [caption id="attachment_53687" align="aligncenter" width="550"] “We feel comfortable and confident that the excise tax dollars are helping keep healthy deer herds out there across the United States,” said Phil Bednar, President and CEO of TenPoint Crossbows.[/caption] As hunters and target shooters, your passion and participation directly contribute to the preservation of the outdoor experiences you cherish. These excise taxes not only support wildlife conservation but also create a legacy of responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation for generations to come. Understanding and appreciating this cycle of giving back ensures that the great outdoors remains accessible for all. More info and resources at https://www.nssf.org/partner-with-payer/ See other Partner with a Payer Videos: https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/game-birds/osprey-restoration-understanding-excise-taxes-wildlife-conservation/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/explore-hunting/how-do-excise-taxes-benefit-hunter-education-clark-county-shooting-complex/

  National Hunting and Fishing Day is this Saturday, September 23, and NSSF, as a major sponsor, encourages all sportsmen and sportswomen to participate.  

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 to take someone hunting, fishing, or shooting this year and be entered into the NHF Day Giveaway!  

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!

The How-to, Where-to and When-to Rabbit Hunting Guide

As the summer heat starts to give way to the cooler breeze of autumn, outdoor enthusiasts and hunting aficionados eagerly anticipate the start of small game hunting season. Late summer offers the perfect opportunity to engage in exciting and challenging rabbit hunting expeditions. Armed with the right tactics, gear, and knowledge of prime hunting spots, hunters can enjoy an exhilarating experience in the great outdoors. Rabbit hunting is a popular and rewarding outdoor activity that offers both excitement and a connection to nature. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner looking to embark on your first rabbit hunting adventure, this guide will provide you with essential information on where to go, how to do it, and when to get started. Safety, ethics and responsible hunting will be a top priority throughout the journey, and we'll also cover the necessary small game hunting gear and prime rabbit hunting spots.

How to Rabbit Hunt

Rabbit hunting requires patience, strategy, and skill. Follow these steps to increase your chances of a successful hunt:

1. Research and Observe: Study rabbit behavior, habitat preferences, and feeding patterns. Spend time observing rabbits in the wild to understand their movements.
2. Choose the Right Gear: Select a shotgun or small-caliber rifle appropriate for small game hunting. Make sure you're comfortable and accurate with your chosen firearm.
3. Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Wear hunter orange to remain visible to other hunters, and never point your firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot.
4. Quiet Approach: Approach your hunting area quietly to avoid spooking rabbits. Move slowly and be mindful of your footsteps.
5. Use a Hunting Dog: Well-trained hunting dogs, especially beagles, can help scent and flush out rabbits from cover. Learn more about hunting rabbits with beagles here.
6. Camouflage and Concealment: Wear camouflage clothing that blends with the environment. Use natural cover to hide and stalk your prey.
7. Early Morning and Dusk: Hunt during the early hours of the day or as the sun sets, when rabbits are most active.
8. Patience and Persistence: Rabbit hunting requires patience. Wait quietly in promising locations, and be prepared for sudden movements.
9. Follow Regulations: Adhere to all hunting regulations, including obtaining the necessary licenses and respecting bag limits.

Where to Go Rabbit Hunting

Finding the right location is key to a successful rabbit hunting experience. Look for areas with suitable habitats where rabbits thrive:

1. Farmland Edges: Fields, farmland borders, and pastures provide ample food sources and cover for rabbits.
2. Brushy Areas: Overgrown fields, hedgerows, and abandoned lots are known to attract rabbits seeking shelter.
3. Woodland Clearings: Open spaces within forests, especially near thickets and undergrowth, are frequented by rabbits.

https://www.letsgohunting.org/where-to-hunt/

When to Rabbit Hunt

Timing is crucial for a successful rabbit hunt. The best times to embark on your rabbit hunting adventure are:

1. Late Summer to Early Fall: As the summer heat subsides and vegetation starts to thin out, rabbits become more active, making late summer and early fall prime hunting seasons.
2. Early Morning and Dusk: Rabbits are most active during the cooler parts of the day, especially in the early morning and at dusk.

Rabbit Hunting Gear

1. Shotgun or Small-Caliber Rifle: Opt for a firearm suitable for small game hunting, like a 20-gauge shotgun or .22 caliber rifle. Learn more about using the .22 rifle for small game hunting.
2. Ammunition: Choose ammunition designed for small game hunting, ensuring an ethical hunt.
3. Hunter Orange Clothing: Wear a hunter orange vest or hat to remain visible to other hunters in the area.
4. Camouflage Clothing: Blend into your surroundings with camouflage clothing suitable for the hunting environment.
5. Boots: Comfortable and durable hunting boots are essential for traversing various terrains.
6. Binoculars: High-quality binoculars help you spot rabbits from a distance without alarming them.

As late summer transitions into fall, the fun of small game hunting beckons. Rabbit hunting offers an exciting and immersive outdoor experience for hunters of all skill levels. By choosing the right hunting locations, mastering essential hunting techniques, prioritizing safety, and using proper gear, you can embark on successful rabbit hunting adventures. Remember that patience and respect for nature are key elements of this rewarding pursuit. So, gear up, head out, and embrace the joys of rabbit hunting while enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. Check out this delicious Rabbit Recipe https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/recipes/old-fashioned-fried-rabbit/ You may also be interested in: https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/small-game/small-game-the-traditional-gateway-to-hunting/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/small-game/beagles-and-rabbits/