How Will You Celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day?

Each year since 1972, the fourth Saturday in September has been officially designated as National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD). This special day commemorates and honors all of the hunters and outdoorspeople who created and popularized conservation as a wildlife management model since the beginning of the 20th century. Since hunters and fishers took the reins of the management of wild, public outdoor spaces and the animals that thrive there, entire populations of wildlife have not only recovered to their pre-Industrial Era numbers, but surpassed them.

"Though they may not be aware of it, hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts contribute the majority of funding for conservation efforts. Through licenses, permits and special taxes, hunters and anglers generate more than $1.75 billion per year for fish, wildlife and habitat. No one contributes more for conservation," says the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). That's why National Hunting and Fishing Day, which this year is Saturday, September 24th, marks the perfect reminder to get outside with your family to reap the joys and benefits of all that you and the hunters who came before you do and did to support conservation.

If you're new to the outdoors lifestyle, it's also a terrific time to discover new ways to get involved with the outdoors and the conservation movement. Visit the NHFD page for a comprehensive state-by-state list of special events sponsored by organizations such as Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas and the NWTF—many of which are free—to help you and your family get acquainted with tips and tactics to enjoy a healthy, bonding time together in the outdoors. Keep an eye on their page for opportunities to win great prizes like a Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS ATV. You can also "like" NHFD on Facebook for events near you or ideas for things to do with your family.

How will you celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day? 

Image courtesy NHFD Facebook page