National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day) is this Saturday, an event launched by Congress in 1971 to celebrate the contributions—and funding—provided by sportsmen and women who pursue this great nation’s renewable wildlife resources. It’s administered by the Wonders of Wildlife Museum, although for decades it was a National Shooting Sports Foundation project.
“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,” the official NHF Day website explains. The annual event, which takes place the fourth Saturday every September, is now in its 52nd year. The grassroots effort promotes the outdoor sports and raises public awareness on the critical role the sports play in wildlife management.
It's not a celebration designed for staying home, though. Game and fish departments, clubs, ranges and others are holding special events, many of them tailored to introduce newcomers to the outdoor lifestyle. There’s probably one near you.
Get Outdoors
Here’s a few in Iowa, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York and Pennsylvania. More will likely be added by the weekend.
You’re not left out if you live in Delaware, Georgia, Louisiana or North Carolina. Dozens of other special events are scheduled. Check local websites and newspapers for listings.
Online
Readers can help spread the word by tagging their photographs with @NHFDay and #GuideToOutside on social media posts. You can also submit them direct to NHFDay here.
The year there’s a special incentive to participate. Enthusiasts who “Take the Pledge” by signing up on this webpage could be one of 20 lucky winners to receive a Bass Pro Shops gift card valued at anywhere from $50 up to $500.
There is no cost to enter. Simply fill out your personal details, explain how you did or will act as a “Guide to Outside” and submit that special photo.
