The public meeting in St. Ignace covers trail camera wolf studies, moose monitoring, and fisheries updates

If you hunt, fish, or spend time in the eastern Upper Peninsula, this meeting is worth your attention. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will brief its Eastern Upper Peninsula Citizens’ Advisory Council on June 18 in St. Ignace.

The meeting runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. EDT at the Little Bear East Community Center, 275 Marquette Street, St. Ignace. Virtual attendance is available. For virtual access details or to submit public comment, contact Kristi Dahlstrom at DahlstromK@Michigan.gov or 906-226-1331.

Wolf Surveys and Moose Research on the Agenda

Two wildlife topics headline the June 18 agenda: the DNR’s wolf abundance trail camera survey and its moose research study. Both are ongoing efforts that shape the management of the UP’s predator and large herbivore populations.

Michigan’s wolf population is concentrated almost entirely in the Upper Peninsula. The trail camera survey approach is a newer method that the DNR has been refining to get more accurate population estimates without relying solely on track counts or harvest data. Understanding wolf numbers matters directly to deer hunters, livestock operators, and anyone tracking predator pressure on deer herds.

The moose research study is equally important. Michigan’s moose population is a small, closely watched herd, mostly found in the western UP, though animals range east. Moose face mounting pressure from warming winters, brain worm disease spread by white-tailed deer, and tick infestations that weaken calves. Updates from this research give the public a window into whether the herd is stable, growing, or declining.

Parks, Fisheries, and Division Updates

Beyond the wildlife studies, council members will hear from parks and recreation staff and the fisheries division. The eastern UP includes some of Michigan’s most fished waters. Lakes Huron and Michigan, the St. Marys River, and dozens of inland lakes and streams draw anglers for walleye, perch, trout, salmon, and bass.

Fisheries division updates at these meetings often touch on stocking plans, population surveys, and regulatory discussions that can affect what seasons look like in the coming years.

Old business items and subcommittee reports round out the agenda.

Why These Councils Matter

The DNR’s citizens’ advisory councils are designed to inject local knowledge into state-level resource decisions. Members come from a broad range of backgrounds, including hunting and fishing organizations, conservation groups, tribal interests, and recreation advocates.

The eastern and western UP councils exist separately because the region is ecologically and culturally distinct from the rest of Michigan. The UP has its own deer-density challenges, its own predator dynamics, and its own fishery characteristics. Having a dedicated advisory body means those differences get a seat at the table rather than getting averaged out in statewide planning.

Council recommendations go directly to the DNR for consideration. They do not have binding authority, but they carry weight. When a local advisory council pushes back on a regulation change or requests more research, the department takes note.

How to Participate

The meeting is open to the public, both in person and virtually. If you cannot attend but want your voice heard, you can submit written public comments in advance. Contact Kristi Dahlstrom at DahlstromK@Michigan.gov or 906-226-1331 for instructions.

Meeting packets, agendas, and council membership information are available on the council’s DNR webpage. Applications for future council vacancies are also posted there. If you have strong opinions about how the UP’s wildlife and fisheries should be managed, getting onto one of these councils is one of the most direct ways to influence those decisions.

The June 18 meeting is one of several the council holds throughout the year. Missing this one is not the end of the world, but with wolf management and moose research on the docket, it is one of the more substantive sessions of the year.

Sources

• https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/about/newsroom/releases/2026/06/09/dnr-eastern-up-citizens-advisory-council-to-meet-june-18

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Harvest comes in 8 percent above the five-year average as turkey numbers hold steady across all 72 counties

Wisconsin turkey hunters had a strong spring. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources released preliminary totals showing hunters registered more than 47,000 birds during the 2026 spring turkey season.

More than 235,000 hunters took to the woods for the season, which ran from April 12 through May 26. The final harvest total came in more than 8 percent above the five-year average, a sign the state’s turkey population remains in good shape.

Turkey numbers are stable across all 72 Wisconsin counties. That kind of statewide coverage is a direct result of one of the most successful wildlife restoration projects in the Midwest.

From Near Zero to 47,000 Birds in 50 Years

Wild turkeys were reintroduced in Wisconsin 50 years ago. At the time, the birds had been gone from the state for decades due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. State wildlife managers brought in small flocks and let nature do the rest.

The first statewide turkey hunt opened in the spring of 1982. That was 44 years ago. Back then, a turkey tag was hard to come by, and hunters felt lucky just to hear a gobble. Today, the season draws a quarter million hunters across a state that had almost no birds within the living memory of older hunters.

That is a conservation story worth telling.

What the Numbers Mean for Fall

The fall turkey season opens September 12. Hunters looking to double dip this year now have a clearer picture of what to expect. Stable numbers across all counties mean most public and private grounds should hold birds.

Fall turkey hunting is a different game from spring. Gobblers are no longer fired up by breeding instincts. The focus shifts to locating flocks, breaking them up, and calling scattered birds back in. Hens, jakes, and toms all become fair game depending on your tag.

Wisconsin allows hunters to purchase additional fall turkey tags in many units. Check the current DNR regulations for your county to confirm bag limits and legal shooting hours before heading out.

What Made Spring 2026 Work

A harvest 8 percent above the five-year average reflects several things: decent spring weather for breeding and poult survival in recent years, consistent habitat in agricultural and forested corridors, and a hunting pressure level the population can sustain.

Wisconsin’s mix of hardwood ridges, agricultural fields, and river bottoms gives turkeys exactly what they need. Food, cover, and nesting habitat are all there. Hunters who work field edges and timber transitions tend to find birds in both seasons.

The DNR will release final certified numbers once all registrations are processed. The preliminary total of 47,000 birds is expected to hold close to the final count.

Plan Your Fall Hunt Now

If you burned a spring tag in Wisconsin this year, or missed out entirely, the fall season gives you another shot. September 12 is about three months out, which gives you time to scout, find birds on their summer range, and plan your approach before the season opener.

Fall turkeys roost in the same general areas year after year. If you have a spot that produces in spring, odds are good it will hold birds in fall too. Get in there now while summer patterns are establishing.

The 2026 spring numbers are a good sign. The flock is healthy. The hunting is there.

Sources

• https://www.wkow.com/news/environment/dnr-announced-totals-from-2026-spring-turkey-hunt/article_0814ea58-1281-4eb9-88c7-6e33dd8f4ede.html

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Father’s Day is right around the corner, June 21st. Do you have a gift for dear ole Dad yet? If not, here is a collection of over fifteen different fishing products that might help you pick something out for Dad this year. This covers several different budget levels for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Hopefully, this last-minute Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide helps you out this year with getting Dad a gift.

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• The Inaugural R3 Grant Recipients from FishAmerica Foundation
• NOAA Announces 93-Day 2026 Season for Gag Grouper in S. Atlantic Region

Gifts $50 and Under – 2026 Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide

• Berkley Lab Series Soft Plastics (MSRP $14.99) – One of Berkley Fishing’s hottest new baits, and used by Pro Angler Dylan Nutt to secure his 2026 Bassmaster Classic victory. These are advanced soft plastic baits, loaded with scent and action to get fish to bite. Available in a minnow, finesse worm, and flat worm.

• Berkley Gin Clear Fluorocarbon (MSRP $19.99 – $27.99) – Leader material is always important to have on hand, so a spool of Berkley Gin Clear Fluorocarbon would always be a welcome addition to Dad’s tacklebox this summer.

• SORD Mono Nippers (MSRP $50.00) – If Dad likes fishing offshore a lot, a good pair of cutters is always helpful to have on hand. The SORD Mono Nippers are precision-built cutters that easily cut through heavy mono and rigging floss.

• Ugly Stik Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Spinning Combo ( MSRP $50.00) – Celebrating 50 years of producing America’s toughest fishing rods, the 50th Anniversary Spinning Combo is a nice little combo perfect for anyone who enjoys Ugly Stik’s tough charms.

Gifts Under $100 – 2026 Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide

• Free Fly Apparel Breeze Vent Short (MSRP $74) – Keep Dad comfortable this summer with the Free Fly Breeze Vent Shorts, offering UPF 40+ sun protection and breathable 4-way stretch fabric. Available in three colors and sizes, small to XXL.

• Plano Weekend Tackle Backpack (MSRP $74.99) – Every dad could always use some more tackle storage. The Plano Weekend Tackle Backpack is a great option, especially if your dad likes to do some pond hopping or bank fishing. Made of water-resistant 600D polyester and built with plenty of storage space, this tackle backpack comes with 2 3700 stowaway boxes.

• Huk Men’s Watershed Hoodie Shirt (MSRP $80.00) – The Watershed Hooded Shirt is built for year-round use, featuring Dricomfort technology for moisture management, thermal regulation, and UPF 50+ sun protection. That way, Dad doesn’t have to worry about any new moles at the doctor’s office later on.

• Okuma Rockaway SI Surf Inshore Spinning Reel (MSRP $99.99 for 2500 – 4000 size reels) – A budget-friendly spinning reel offering from Okuma that is loaded up with premium features. A great gift option for any dad who likes fishing inshore.

Gifts Under $200 – 2026 Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide

• Quantum Merit Spinning Reels (MSRP $99.99 – $149.99) – A spinning reel from Quantum that redefines affordable fishing tackle, offering premium features that anglers typically see with higher-priced spinning reels.

• Daiwa BG Spinning Combos (MSRP $179.99 – 209.99) – A tried and true spinning combo from Daiwa, these are a solid pick for dad if he needs a new beefy combo for both fresh and saltwater use. These combos are available in sizes from 2500 to 5000. The 2500, 3000, and 4000 size combos come with a 1-piece, 7-foot cork-handled fishing rod in varying power ratings. The other combos come with EVA-gripped rods that start at 7 feet and go up to a 10-foot surf rod.

• Mud Hole All-In-One Rod Building Kits (MSRP $199.95) – If Dad is a DIY type,  an all-in-one rod building kit might be right up his alley. Available in spinning, casting, fly, or ice rod kits, these packages have everything he needs to make his own custom rod.

• Abu Garcia Revo X VoltiQ (MSRP $199.95) – A new electronic casting control reel offered from Abu Garcia, it comes with the 10-setting VoltiQ technology to simplify casting with this baitcaster. Available in two gear ratios, 6.7:1 and 7.3:1, and left and right-handed retrieves. These neat little reels even make the electronic whine when you cast them that so many bass anglers love.

Gifts Under $500 – 2026 Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide

• Shimano Curado MGL 150 (MSRP $209.99) – If dad needs a nice new bass reel, look at the Curado MGL, a 150-size reel that is loaded up with premium Shimano technologies like the MagnumLite Spool and rigid aluminum Hagane reel body.

• PENN Spinfisher VII Spinning Reel (MSRP $209.95 – $339.95) – A heavy-duty saltwater spinning reel offering from PENN, available in sizes as small as 2500 for inshore up to 10500 for tuna popping far offshore.

• BOTE Highwater Duffel Bag (MSRP $349.00) – A solid waterproof piece of submersible luggage, perfect as a boat or tackle bag for dad. While the MSRP of the Highwater Duffel is set at $350, it is currently on sale for $199 on the BOTE website.

• Okuma Tesoro Lever Drag Jigging Reel (MSRP $472.99) – If your dad is big on going offshore and slow pitch jigging, the new Okuma Tesoro lever drag might be right up his alley. This is a purpose-built jigging reel with an oversized reel handle, quality gearing, and a single-piece 6061-T6 machined aluminum frame.

The post Last Minute Father’s Day Fishing Gift Guide – OutdoorHub 2026 appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Scott Failor II landed the certified record on the Delaware River near Augustine using shad as bait

A Lancaster County, Pennsylvania man rewrote the Delaware record books on Monday morning. Scott Failor II was fishing the Delaware River near Augustine when he pulled in a flathead catfish that weighed 36.2 pounds, stretched 41 inches long, and measured 24.75 inches around. Delaware Fish and Wildlife certified the catch as the new state record for flathead catfish.

The fish beat the previous Delaware state record by three pounds.

Shad Was the Key

Failor hooked the fish around 7:30 in the morning. His bait of choice was shad, a classic choice for big catfish on mid-Atlantic rivers. Flatheads are ambush predators that prefer live or fresh-cut bait over prepared or scented baits. Shad, especially when caught fresh from the same river, gives anglers a natural advantage.

For catfish anglers targeting trophy fish, Failor’s method is worth noting. Heavy tackle, a natural bait, and patience on a known big-fish stretch of water is a formula that holds up.

Catch and Release Guy Makes an Exception

Failor said he normally practices catch-and-release. This time, with a state record on his hands, he made an exception. He did not keep the fish for himself, though. He gave the catfish to a local family to eat.

“I usually do catch and release,” Failor said. “But this time I gave the catfish to a family to eat.”

He added that he does not like to eat fish himself. The record is his. The meal belonged to someone else.

About Flathead Catfish

Flathead catfish are among the largest freshwater fish in North America. They are native to major river drainages in the central and southern United States but have been introduced widely across the East, including the Delaware River system. They are slow-growing and can live for decades, which is why fish of this size represent years of survival in a river environment.

The Delaware River has produced flathead catfish in the 30-pound range before, but records of this size are unusual. Big flatheads tend to hold in deep pools, near submerged structure, and around river bends where current slows. They feed heavily at night and in low-light conditions, though Failor’s catch came in the early morning hours when conditions are still favorable.

Flatheads differ from channel catfish and blue catfish in behavior and appearance. They have a distinctly flat, wide head, a lower jaw that protrudes beyond the upper jaw, and a mottled brownish-yellow coloring. Channel cats are the most common targeted species for casual anglers. Flatheads attract serious trophy hunters who know what they are after.

Delaware River Catfish Fishing

The Delaware River has long been a productive waterway for catfish anglers, particularly in the tidal sections below Trenton, New Jersey. The stretch near Augustine, Delaware, sits in the lower tidal Delaware, where water conditions, depth, and forage base support large catfish populations.

Anglers targeting flatheads in this section typically fish bottom rigs with live bait after dark. The river sees a mix of recreational anglers and dedicated trophy hunters throughout the warm months. A record-setter like this one often brings increased attention to a fishery for the season following the catch.

Failor’s record will stand until someone hauls in a heavier fish from Delaware waters and submits it for certification. Given that the previous record held for years before being broken by three pounds, that may not happen soon.

For anglers eyeing their own record attempt, the Delaware River near Augustine is now on the map as a proven address for trophy flathead catfish.

Sources

• https://www.wgal.com/article/lancaster-county-man-delaware-record-36-pound-catfish/71463112

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Minnesota DNR Officer Reports: Nuisance Bears Up, Fishing Mixed, Boating Busy

Conservation officers across northeastern Minnesota logged a busy stretch with bear complaints, uneven angling success, and rising boat traffic

Conservation officers with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources filed their latest field reports, and the picture looks familiar heading into summer. Nuisance bears are showing up around homes and cabins. Fishing is hit-or-miss, depending on where you drop a line. And everyone seems to be on the water or the trail at once.

Bear Complaints Piling Up

Multiple officers reported nuisance bear calls across the region. CO Thomas Wahlstrom in Grand Marais responded to several bear complaints. CO Hudson Ledeen in Hovland noted that every nuisance complaint he responded to had one thing in common: an available food source.

That is not a coincidence. Bears follow their nose. Bird feeders, unsecured garbage, pet food left outside, and compost piles all draw them in. If you live in bear country, the DNR message is simple: remove the attractant, and the bear moves on. Leave it out, and the bear becomes a harder problem to solve.

CO Gabe Soriano in Hinckley also fielded frequent calls about nuisance beavers, in addition to bears, as both species continue to cause headaches for landowners and officers alike.

Fishing Reports Are Mixed

Angling activity was up in many areas, but success varied widely.

CO John Slatinski IV in Ray noted that more anglers were out and several were catching fish. The complaint? The fish were too big to keep. While that sounds like a good problem, it means anglers were releasing more than they were bringing home.

Over in Ely, CO, Sean Williams reported that while ATV and angling activity was heavy, fishing success had dropped off compared to recent weeks. Waters are warming, and panfish in some areas are responding. CO Tony Elwell in Cloquet reported that the panfish bite picked up as water temperatures climbed following Memorial Day.

In the Babbitt area, CO Anthony Bermel reported fair to good success on Birch Lake and in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Interior lakes were quieter than border lakes and those with easier access.

Boating and ATV Traffic Running High

Memorial Day weekend brought a surge in recreational activity. CO Elwell in Cloquet noted high ATV traffic with strong compliance. CO Duke Broughten in Aurora reported ATV and boating activity both increased, even as fishing pressure eased.

Officers issued enforcement action for a range of watercraft violations. Common issues included no life jackets on board, expired watercraft registration, operating unregistered watercraft, and personal watercraft violations. CO Thomas Sutherland in Grand Rapids took action against a PWC operator running above no-wake speed within 150 feet of another boat.

Anglers also drew citations for fishing without a license, no trout stamp, and running extra lines.

Zebra Mussels and BWCAW Enforcement

CO Cassie Block in Two Harbors focused on zebra mussel detection work with K9 Jet at lake access points. Invasive species inspections are a growing part of summer enforcement, and detection dogs are proving useful in finding hitchhiking mussels on watercraft.

Inside the BWCAW, officers cited visitors for bringing cans and glass containers into the wilderness area, a longstanding regulation that many paddlers overlook. Littering and unlicensed angling were also noted.

Fire Danger Still Elevated

CO Trent Anderson in Tofte issued a reminder that fire danger remains high across the region. With dry conditions persisting, campers and outdoor recreationists should take extra precautions. CO Soriano in Hinckley also responded to multiple unpermitted burns in the area.

Check local fire restrictions before heading out and follow all fire safety guidelines, especially in forested areas where conditions can change fast.

Sources

• https://www.pinejournal.com/sports/northland-outdoors/dnr-report-bear-and-beaver-problems-continue-fishing-reports-mixed

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18-year-old Cameron Mertens fell from his kayak while fishing Monday evening

An 18-year-old angler drowned Monday evening at Pleasant Lake in Corinna Township, Wright County, Minnesota, after falling from a kayak near the public access.

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office reports deputies were dispatched to the lake at approximately 8:20 p.m. They found an overturned kayak near the public access and dock on the north side of the lake.

Witnesses told deputies that Cameron Mertens of Watkins had been fishing from his kayak about 75 to 100 yards from the dock. He fell from the kayak and drowned. Several other people were fishing in the area at the time.

Kayak Fishing Safety: What Every Angler Needs to Know

This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the risks that come with kayak fishing. Kayaks sit low on the water and are easy to tip, especially when reaching for a rod, landing a fish, or shifting weight quickly.

A life jacket is the single most important piece of gear for any kayak angler. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the majority of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident. Wearing one dramatically increases survival odds.

Here are the basics every kayak angler should follow:

• Always wear your PFD. A life jacket stored in your hatch does nothing if you fall in.
• Tell someone where you are going. Let a friend or family member know which lake, your launch point, and when to expect you back.
• Stay within a safe distance of shore. The farther out you paddle, the longer a rescue takes.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Cold water shock can incapacitate a swimmer in seconds.
• Avoid fishing alone at dusk or after dark. Low light reduces visibility for you and for others on the water.

Know Before You Go

Minnesota lakes see heavy fishing pressure throughout the summer. Evenings are popular for walleye and bass anglers. But evening conditions can change fast. Wind picks up. Boat wakes increase. Light fades. Kayak anglers need to account for all of it before they launch.

The Minnesota DNR offers free boating safety courses and resources for kayak and canoe paddlers. If you spend time on the water, it is worth the few hours to complete a course.

Cameron Mertens was a young man out doing what many of us love. That he did not come home is a loss for his family, his community, and for anyone who has spent a summer evening fishing from a kayak.

Take the time to gear up right before your next trip on the water. A PFD and a few common-sense precautions can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

Sources

• https://wjon.com/pleasant-lake-drowning-incident/

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Federal land managers are considering policy changes that could open key elk habitat to logging, energy development, and other uses that hunters say will push herds off public ground. The concerns span several Western states, with Colorado elk country among the hardest hit.

At issue are a series of executive orders and agency directives that critics say roll back protections for roadless areas, old-growth forests, and sage-steppe landscapes that elk rely on year-round.

What Is at Stake

Elk in the West live and die by their habitat. They need dense timber for summer cover, open meadows for feeding, and undisturbed winter range. When roads get cut or heavy equipment moves in, herds shift. Sometimes they shift onto private land where public hunting access disappears. Sometimes they just scatter into a country too fragmented to support a sustainable population.

The Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service together manage hundreds of millions of acres of elk habitat in the West. Changes to how those agencies manage their lands directly affect hunting seasons, tag success rates, and long-term herd health.

Current policy debates center on loosening protections for inventoried roadless areas. Those zones, locked away from new road construction since 2001, cover roughly 58 million acres of National Forest land. Many of those acres sit squarely in core elk habitat.

Hunters Are Watching Closely

Groups like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers have been tracking the policy shifts. Both organizations say hunters should care deeply about land access and habitat health, regardless of their political views.

Their argument is simple. Elk hunting in the West is built on public land. Nearly half of the land in the 11 Western states is federally managed. Strip away habitat quality or hunting access on those acres, and you gut the economic and cultural foundation of elk hunting.

Colorado has about 280,000 elk, the largest population in North America. The state draws hunters from across the country. Any meaningful shift in how federal agencies manage Colorado public lands will ripple through outfitters, sporting goods businesses, and rural communities that depend on hunting season dollars.

What the Debate Comes Down To

Supporters of the policy changes argue that thinning dense forests reduces wildfire risk and that energy development brings jobs and economic activity to rural areas. They say elk are adaptable and that well-managed development does not have to mean poor hunting.

Critics say the science does not support that argument for the roadless backcountry. Studies consistently show that elk use of an area drops as road density increases. More roads mean more human intrusion, more competition with motorized users, and worse hunting for everyone who packs in on foot.

The core tension is not new. But the pace of proposed changes in 2026 has pushed hunting and conservation groups to pay closer attention than usual.

What Hunters Can Do

The public comment period on several of these federal land proposals is still open. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers both have resources on their websites explaining specific proposals and how to submit comments.

State wildlife agencies in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and New Mexico are also tracking the federal changes. Contact your state fish and wildlife agency to find out how proposed federal land shifts might affect your unit or your favorite hunting area.

Elk habitat does not rebuild overnight. The decisions made on public lands now will shape where elk live and where hunters can pursue them for decades.

Sources

• https://coloradonewsline.com/2026/06/08/federal-policies-public-lands-chopping-block/

The post Federal Land Policies Threaten Elk Habitat Across the West, Hunters Warned appeared first on OutdoorHub.

The Missouri Conservation Commission is proposing a small fee to address a surge in camping violations and site damage since 2020

Free camping at Missouri Department of Conservation properties may not stay free much longer. The Missouri Conservation Commission has proposed charging campers $5 per night, per site, at the department’s more primitive conservation area campsites. The current rate is zero.

The public comment period opens July 16 and runs through August 14, 2026. The commission is expected to vote on the proposed rules at its September 11 meeting.

What the Proposal Says

The $5 fee would apply per campsite for stays of up to five days and four nights. Campers would be limited to three consecutive permits and no more than six total per year. Each permit covers up to 10 people. Groups larger than 10 would need a special-use permit.

The department defended the price point in a statement, saying $5 per night is “a great value for the price.” For context, other camping on Missouri state properties runs $10 to $36 per night. The U.S. Forest Service charges $10 to $25 per night per person in Mark Twain National Forest.

The Problem Behind the Proposal

The pandemic brought a lot of new people outdoors, and Missouri conservation areas felt it hard. Officials say problems at campsites have increased significantly since 2020.

In 2015, the department issued two warnings for camping violations across all its properties. Last year, it issued more than 150. Formal citations for camping violations nearly tripled over the same decade. The department is also seeing more vandalism and illegal activity at campsites.

The core issue is accountability. Free, unregistered camping makes it hard to track who is where or enforce rules when someone violates them. A registration system, even a low-cost one, gives officers a paper trail when issuing tickets.

Officials say they want to balance expanding camping access across the state while keeping existing sites appealing and functional for everyone who uses them.

Where Free Camping Still Exists Near St. Louis

Free year-round MDC campsites are not available within the St. Louis metro area, but several are located in nearby counties. William R. Logan Conservation Area sits in Lincoln County. Little Lost Creek Conservation Area is in Warren County. Pea Ridge Conservation Area is in Washington County. All three are within reasonable driving distance for St. Louis-area campers.

These sites and others like them around the state would be affected by the proposed change if the commission adopts the new rules in September.

How to Comment

Missouri residents and regular users of conservation area campsites can submit public comments on the proposed regulations through the MDC website. The comment window runs from July 16 through August 14, 2026. After the comment period closes, the Missouri Conservation Commission will review feedback before making a final decision at its September 11 meeting.

If you have opinions on the fee, that comment window is your best shot at influencing the outcome. The commission does consider public input, and camping policy decisions often elicit strong responses from the people most affected.

A $5 fee may seem small. But for families who camp multiple nights at multiple sites through the season, the permit limits and annual caps matter as much as the nightly price. Read the proposed rules before commenting to ensure your feedback addresses the specific terms under consideration.

Sources

• https://www.stlpr.org/news-briefs/2026-06-02/state-considers-charging-small-fee-camping-at-once-free-conservation-area-campsites

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Mohammed Massaoudi used a fish finder and careful planning to snag the largest wels catfish ever caught in the Netherlands

A Dutch angler just set a new national record for wels catfish, and his fishing buddy was there to help carry it out of the water. Mohammed Massaoudi landed a 2.49-meter wels catfish on the River Waal near Dodewaard, Netherlands, on Saturday. The catch officially topped the previous national record by two centimeters.

The kicker: the previous record belonged to Massaoudi’s own fishing partner, Paul Breems, who had caught a 2.47-meter fish in the same river.

Years in the Making

Paul Breems had been steadily improving his own records for years, working up from 2.42 meters to 2.43, and then to 2.47. He was reportedly looking to beat his own mark when his buddy Mohammed got there first.

Massaoudi left nothing to chance. He used a fish finder to locate the giant catfish and spent considerable time planning his approach. When the 2.49-meter catfish finally took the bait, he hauled it ashore with help from Breems himself. According to the German angling magazine Blinker, Paul helped his mate lift the fish out of the water. The Dutch newspaper De Gelderlander confirmed that Massaoudi will be officially registered as the new record holder.

Breems took it in stride and congratulated his friend on the new record.

What Is a Wels Catfish?

Wels catfish are the largest freshwater fish in Europe. They are native to Eastern Europe and parts of Western Europe, including the Rhine and Danube river systems. These fish can live for decades and grow to massive sizes in warm, food-rich waterways.

The species has spread widely in rivers like the Waal, a major distributary of the Rhine in the Netherlands. Big wels catfish are a bucket-list target for European freshwater anglers. Catches over two meters are considered exceptional.

Record-sized catfish have been documented at over 3 meters and more than 150 kilograms in parts of southern Europe. The Dutch record at 2.49 meters is impressive but not near the extreme end of what the species can achieve. That means the fish Massaoudi caught could still have a lot of growing left to do.

The Fish Went Back in the River

After photos and measurements were taken, the record catfish was returned to the River Waal. Massaoudi and Breems practice catch-and-release for their trophy fish. That decision also gives Breems a future shot at reclaiming the record if the catfish keeps growing.

Wels catfish can continue to grow over many years in a food-rich environment. Whether Breems ever catches that same fish again remains an open question.

A Reminder of the Species’ Strength

The record catch is a good reminder of just how large these fish can get. Last year, a 90-kilogram wels catfish in the Brombachsee reservoir in Bavaria, Germany, bit multiple swimmers. The fish repeatedly acted aggressively toward people in the water, and police ultimately shot and killed it.

That incident drew international attention and sparked debate about the wels catfish population management in recreational swimming areas across Europe.

Wels catfish are ambush feeders. They use their wide, flat mouths to swallow prey whole. In rivers with abundant food, they can become very large and very bold. That is part of what makes targeting them such a serious pursuit for specialist anglers.

Planning Makes the Difference

One detail worth noting is how Massaoudi approached the catch. He did not stumble into a record. He researched his target, used a fish finder to locate it, and deliberately organized the hunt. That level of preparation is common among anglers who consistently land outsized fish.

Fish finders have become standard equipment for serious freshwater anglers chasing big predatory species. They allow anglers to identify structure, locate schools, and mark individual fish holding in deeper water. Massaoudi credited his preparation as key to landing the record.

For now, the Dutch national record belongs to Mohammed Massaoudi. His best fishing buddy helped him carry it ashore and congratulated him afterward. That is hard to beat.

Sources

• https://www.euronews.com/2026/06/01/record-angler-lands-giant-25-metre-catfish

The post Dutch Angler Lands Record 2.49-Metre Wels Catfish, Beats His Own Fishing Partner appeared first on OutdoorHub.

At least 27 sessions at 11 locations statewide, running June through December

Maryland hunters who want to take part in managed deer hunts this fall and winter need to get their paperwork in order now. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has released the 2026 Shooter Qualification session schedule, and sessions are already on the calendar.

Qualifying for a Shooter Qualification Card is required before hunters can participate in most of Maryland’s managed deer hunts. The card is earned by attending one of the approved sessions and passing a proficiency test. Without it, you cannot enter the lottery for a managed hunt slot.

What the Schedule Looks Like

The DNR has scheduled at least 27 qualification sessions across 11 locations statewide. Sessions run from June through December 2026. The department may add more sessions by reservation as demand dictates.

Not all sessions work the same way. Some require appointments. Some charge a small attendance fee. Specific locations may require participants to bring photo identification. Eye protection and hearing protection are also mandatory at certain sites.

Hunters should check the details for their chosen session before showing up. The DNR updates the online shooter qualification calendar as new events are added.

Why Managed Hunts Exist

Managed deer hunts are not your typical public land opener. These are organized hunts designed to reduce deer populations in urban, suburban, and select public land areas where deer numbers have gotten out of hand.

Overpopulation causes real damage. Deer strip vegetation, damage native plant communities through over-browsing, and create hazards in high-traffic residential areas. The DNR describes managed hunts as “a safe and effective wildlife management tool” for addressing these problems where standard hunting seasons do not reach.

Think of it as deer management for the areas between the traditional hunting grounds. Neighborhoods. City parks. State land parcels surrounded by development. These are spots where deer numbers climb unchecked and standard season pressure does not apply.

How the Lottery Works

Earning your Shooter Qualification Card does not guarantee a hunt slot. Most managed hunts use a lottery system to select participants from the pool of qualified applicants.

Lottery deadlines vary by hunt. Hunters need to watch the DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service website closely. Missing a deadline means missing the draw, regardless of whether you hold a valid qualification card.

The qualification card is good once earned. Hunters who qualified in previous years should verify whether their card is still valid or whether a new session is required for 2026.

What You Need to Bring

Requirements vary by location, but here is what most sessions will want from you:

• Photo identification
• Eye protection
• Hearing protection
• Any applicable session fee
• Your firearm or archery equipment for the proficiency test

Confirm the requirements for your specific session before you go. The DNR site has full details for each location.

Why This Matters Beyond Maryland

Managed deer hunt programs like this one are expanding across the country. More states are using proficiency requirements and lottery systems to manage suburban deer herds. It is a model that balances public safety concerns with hunter access in areas that have traditionally been off-limits.

For Maryland hunters, getting qualified opens the door to hunting opportunities in areas most people never get access to. Urban park hunts, suburban greenbelt parcels, and DNR-managed tracts are available to qualified lottery winners. That is not a bad deal for a few hours at a qualification session.

Visit the Maryland DNR website to find qualification session locations, dates, and requirements. The calendar is updated regularly as new sessions are confirmed.

Sources

• https://www.wboc.com/news/maryland-dnr-releases-2026-deer-hunt-qualification-schedule/article_2376f6c2-33b3-4073-b029-bb2722f3fc03.html

The post Maryland DNR Releases 2026 Deer Hunt Qualification Schedule appeared first on OutdoorHub.

The Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program will fund marina dredging, site improvements, and engineering work across six Michigan counties

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources approved $4.035 million in Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program funding to improve recreational boating access across the state. Seven communities in Benzie, Emmet, Mackinac, Marquette, Ottawa, and Sanilac counties received grants for projects including marina dredging, site improvements, and engineering studies.

When matched with local funds, the projects represent a combined investment of more than $6.5 million in boating infrastructure.

What the Money Pays For

The Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program requires communities to match 50 percent of project costs. That means every state dollar is paired with a local dollar, stretching public investment further. Projects approved this year include dredging work that keeps marinas navigable, an engineering study likely tied to future improvements, and general site upgrades at public boating access points.

Michigan has more than 1,200 state-sponsored boating access sites. It also manages 19 state harbors and supports 64 local harbors of refuge along the Great Lakes shoreline. Keeping that infrastructure functional requires consistent investment, and the grant program is the primary tool for getting it done.

“Michigan is home to more than 1,200 state-sponsored boating access sites, 19 state-managed harbors and 64 local state-sponsored harbors of refuge along the Great Lakes,” said Kristen Kosick, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. “As boating remains a cornerstone of Michigan’s outdoor recreation, the DNR is committed to investing in and funding these vital waterways for the benefit of all.”

Where the Funding Comes From

The grants are paid from the Michigan State Waterways Fund, a restricted account funded by boat registration fees and a portion of the state gas tax. The fund can only be used for boating-related purposes, meaning registration fees collected from boaters go directly back into the infrastructure they use.

The program has been running since 1949, when it was created to expand harbor access along the Great Lakes. Over the decades, it has expanded to cover inland boating access sites as well.

Local units of government and state colleges and universities are eligible to apply. That includes townships, cities, and counties that operate public boat ramps, marinas, or harbor facilities.

Why This Matters for Boaters

Dredging is expensive, and most small communities cannot fund it on their own. When a marina silts in, it becomes inaccessible to larger boats or gets shut down entirely. Grant funding keeps those access points open, which matters especially in communities where the local economy is tied to recreational fishing and boating tourism.

The same applies to aging docks, ramps, and breakwalls. Without regular maintenance funding, facilities deteriorate to the point where repairs cost far more than upkeep would have. The grant cycle gives communities a structured way to address these issues before they become critical failures.

How to Apply for the Next Round

The next application window for Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program funding opens with a deadline of April 1, 2027. Communities that want to pursue grants should start planning projects and lining up matching funds well ahead of that date.

More information on the program, including the full list of 2026 grant awards and eligibility requirements, is available at the Michigan DNR website under grants and recreation programs.

For boaters, the bottom line is straightforward. Improved ramps, dredged marinas, and better access sites mean more places to launch and fish. The investment cycle is slow, but the results show up on the water over time.

Sources

• https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/about/newsroom/releases/2026/05/27/dnr-approves-4-million-in-grants-for-recreational-boating-improvements-and-development

The post Michigan DNR Approves $4 Million in Boating Access Grants for Seven Communities appeared first on OutdoorHub.

MMA legend Tito Ortiz nearly died on the water earlier this year. The 51-year-old UFC Hall of Famer was returning from a fishing tournament off Cape Coral, Florida, when a boat malfunction turned a good day on the water into a fight for his life.

Ortiz shared the story on Instagram this week. The boat his friend was driving had been switched to autopilot. That autopilot failed. The boat made a sudden, violent, hard left turn. The force was so strong that Ortiz thought they had hit another vessel.

It had not hit anything. The turn just threw him overboard.

“I’ve never been hit that hard,” Ortiz said. “I almost died, and it was scary for me.”

What Happened on the Water

According to Ortiz, the sudden turn yanked him completely out of the boat. He went 10 feet into the air. He was traveling at more than 50 miles per hour when he hit the water face-first.

The impact knocked him unconscious.

When he came to, he was completely underwater. He had to swim back to the surface before he could be rescued. He credited his survival to being a strong athlete and knowing how to keep calm under pressure, qualities he spent decades building inside the octagon.

Ortiz was clear that alcohol was not involved. He told Gulf Coast News Now the driver had not been drinking and the accident was entirely the result of the autopilot system failing.

Still Feeling It Months Later

This did not end when he climbed back into the boat. Ortiz has been dealing with headaches and arm numbness for more than 11 weeks since the accident. Doctors found a bulging disc pressing on his spinal cord, a direct result of the water impact. He was scheduled to have it treated this week.

At 51, Ortiz has taken plenty of punishment inside the cage. He says nothing in his fighting career hit him as hard as that water surface at 50 miles per hour.

What This Means for Boaters

Autopilot systems on recreational boats are convenient, but they are not foolproof. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators consistently reports that operator inattention and equipment failure are among the leading causes of boating accidents each year.

A few basics worth remembering before you leave the dock:

• Know your boat’s autopilot system and its failure modes before you trust it offshore.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Ortiz was lucky to regain consciousness before he drowned. Many boaters do not get that chance.
• Keep all passengers seated and holding on when running at speed, especially in open water, where boat behavior can be unpredictable.
• Review your vessel thoroughly before each trip. Mechanical failures happen, but routine checks catch many problems early.

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that the majority of boating fatalities involve people who were not wearing life jackets. Equipment failures add another layer of risk that no amount of skill can fully cancel out.

Context: Ortiz and the Outdoors

Ortiz is known primarily as a fighter. He headlined major UFC events, won the light heavyweight title, and had some of the most memorable rivalries in MMA history. Less publicly, he is also a competitive angler. He was coming back from a fishing tournament when the accident happened.

He is far from the only high-profile athlete to take boating seriously. Many hunters and anglers spend as much time on the water each year as they do in the field. The risks are real for everyone, not just celebrities.

Ortiz says he is expected to make a full recovery once the spinal issue is addressed. He has not announced a timeline for returning to normal activity, but his track record suggests he will not stay sidelined for long.

For now, take his story as a reminder to respect the water. It does not care how tough you are.

Sources

• https://www.postwrestling.com/2026/06/03/tito-ortiz-describes-near-death-boating-accident-earlier-this-year-ive-never-been-hit-that-hard/
• https://www.gulfcoastnewsnow.com/article/tito-ortiz-boating-accident-ufc-florida-cape-coral/71475973

The post UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz Survives Near-Death Boating Accident in Florida appeared first on OutdoorHub.

A forager in the Pacific Northwest went back to a favorite spot this week. The salmonberries were just starting to ripen when they visited the week before. This time, they walked out with five pounds. That’s how fast the season moves.

Salmonberry season is running hot right now along the Pacific Coast. Patches at lower elevations are at or near peak. If you’ve been thinking about getting out for a berry haul, go this week.

What Is a Salmonberry?

Salmonberries (Rubus spectabilis) are a wild raspberry relative native to the Pacific Coast of North America. They grow from Alaska south through British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and into Northern California.

The berries ripen in shades of yellow, orange, and deep red. They look a lot like raspberries, but the flavor is milder, sweeter, and less tart, almost honey-like when fully ripe. Some berries in the same patch will be yellow, while others are deep orange or red. All are edible at full ripeness.

The plants grow on thorny canes and can form dense thickets ten feet tall or taller. You’ll recognize them first by their bright magenta or pink flowers, which appear as early as February in coastal areas. By late May through July, those flowers become fruit.

Where to Look

Salmonberries love moisture. Look along stream banks, in riparian corridors, at the edges of coastal forests, and in clearcuts or disturbed ground with plenty of sun. They often grow alongside skunk cabbage, red alder, and ferns in the Pacific Northwest.

Hiking trails through old-growth and second-growth forests in western Washington and Oregon are reliable spots. So are roadsides near rivers and creeks. Anywhere there’s standing water nearby, start looking for the canes.

One important note: black bears and grizzlies target salmonberry patches hard during this time of year. Push into thick brush carefully. Make noise on the trail. Keep your bear spray accessible. Salmon runs and salmonberry patches often overlap geographically, and bears know it.

How to Harvest Efficiently

Ripe salmonberries practically fall off the cane. If you have to pull hard, give them a few more days. A ripe berry is soft, fragrant, and releases with the lightest touch.

Bring a wide-mouthed container. The berries crush easily, so be gentle when stacking them and keep the container level. Gloves are worth it. The canes have small thorns along their entire length, and a dense patch will draw blood on bare arms.

Harvest in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Berries picked in full afternoon sun get soft fast and are harder to transport without turning to mush. Get them refrigerated as soon as you’re home. They’ll keep two to three days at most before they start to break down.

What to Do With a Big Haul

Syrup is the most popular use, and for good reason. Cook the berries down in a pot with a little water, then strain out the seeds and pulp through a fine-mesh strainer or food mill. Add sugar and a small amount of lemon juice and reduce to your preferred consistency. Salmonberry syrup is excellent on pancakes and waffles, stirred into sparkling water, or mixed into cocktails.

Jam works too, though you’ll deal with many small seeds. A food mill speeds up the job considerably. The jam sets well with standard pectin ratios.

Salmonberries also freeze reliably. Spread them on a sheet pan in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. You’ll have access to the season’s harvest well into winter.

If you raise chickens, goats, or pigs, the leftover pulp and seeds from syrup-making are fair game for the animals. Nothing has to go to waste with a productive berry haul.

A Word on Sustainable Harvest

Don’t strip a patch. Take what you need, leave plenty for wildlife, and note the location for next year. Salmonberry patches harvested lightly and consistently tend to produce well season after season.

Check local regulations before harvesting on public lands. Most national forests allow personal-use berry picking in reasonable quantities without a permit. State parks vary by jurisdiction. Commercial harvest on federal land requires a permit in nearly all cases.

The season is short, and it’s running now. Find a spot near moving water, listen for the bears, and fill a bucket.

Sources

• https://www.reddit.com/r/foraging/comments/1tvzzub/we_went_back_for_more_salmonberry/

The post Salmonberries Are Peaking Now Across the Pacific Northwest appeared first on OutdoorHub.

After wearing the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant this spring, I’ve stayed dry in downpours while fishing and cruising around on my ebike. It has waterproof zippers on the well-thought-out pockets and a built-in line cutter. It’s intentionally designed for fishing in wet conditions, but as you keep reading this FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant review, you’ll discover why it’s not the best choice for every angler.

Specs & What Matters

• Lightweight nylon Omni-Stretch shell with PFAS-free DWR finish
• HydrX 20K Waterproof / 20K Breathable membrane
• Fully seam-sealed
• Large front bib hand pockets with YKK® waterproof zippers
• Packable into chest pocket
• Zippered front fly opening
• Hook-and-loop adjustable back waist channel
• Adjustable suspenders
• Performance fit with pre-curved knees
• Waterproof lower leg zippers
• Tether retention D-ring with line-cutter
• Reflective screen-printed logos
• No PFAS intentionally used in this product
• Colors: Black/Grey or Stone/Asphalt
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, or 3XL
• MSRP: $260

Test Methods & Conditions

I’ve tested the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant throughout the spring in Oklahoma on rainy and potentially rainy days. I’ve packed it in tight spaces and slipped it on over my clothing before the rain started. They’re designed for fishing and riding, so that’s exactly what I did during and shortly after the rain stopped.

Try‑On & First Impressions

When I pulled the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant out of the box for the first time, I immediately noticed how long it is. I’m pretty short at 5’6”, so I was worried that the bib legs would drag on the ground as I walked, and they did. Aside from the leg length, the bib was easy to adjust at the shoulders and around the waist, so it fit well.

Rating: 7 / 10

Performance in the Field

As long as I wore this bib (and my FXR rain jacket), my body and legs stayed dry in the rain. The first time I took it fishing, the chances of rain were high later in the day, so I packed it in my kayak crate. I ended up not needing it, but thankfully it doesn’t take up much space or weigh much, so I wasn’t upset about it. Another time it was pouring rain when I left my house, so I easily pulled the bib pants over my boots as I left and went fishing. The temperature was cool, but I stayed warm and dry while fly fishing at my pond. When the rain slowed, I wanted to see how well they’d keep me dry as I drove through water and mud puddles. Once again, the bib pants kept me protected, didn’t leak, and kept my stuff (phone, keys, wallet) dry. My biggest complaint about the performance is that when wearing a jacket, the chest pockets (the only pockets) are difficult to access. However, the line cutter is easy to access and works well.

Rating: 9 / 10

Durability, Materials & Build Quality

FXR intentionally uses high-quality, durable, lightweight materials to construct this bib pant. I’ve had no issues with fraying or loose seams. The face of the material holds up well, even though I’ve stuffed it in a buddy’s storage compartment on his boat, in my kayak crate, my truck, and worn and washed it many other times.

Rating: 8/ 10

Fit, Mobility & Layering

This bib pant is easy to slip over my boots thanks to the waterproof lower leg zippers. It fits over a couple of layers and is easy to adjust for various temperatures. I’ve never felt restricted in these bibs while fishing, walking, or riding.

Rating: 8 / 10

Who It’s For / Who Should Skip It

The FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant is for serious anglers who want to keep dry while fishing. It’s also ideal for the traveling angler because it’s very packable (stuffs inside the pocket). I wouldn’t recommend it to anglers who don’t fish in the rain or don’t get wet while fishing, because it’s expensive and you won’t get any benefit from it.

Value & Price‑to‑Performance

Bibs are generally expensive, and at $260, the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant is no different. However, I think it does everything it promises (keeps you bone dry) and has a couple of features that others don’t offer (a built-in line cutter). I wouldn’t recommend wearing it in the winter without proper layering, but it’s a great choice for most of the year, especially in southern states. So, you can get your money’s worth out of it.

Rating: 8 / 10

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Keeps me dry in rain and spray
• Has built-in line cutter for quick fishing cuts
• Doesn’t limit my mobility
• Adjustable so I can change layers throughout the year
• Very packable

Cons

• A bit long-legged
• Expensive
• Difficult to access the pockets while wearing a jacket

The Verdict: FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant Review

I love how packable the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant is, but it also shines at keeping me dry in very wet conditions. It’s kept me cool on warm days and warm on cool days, and I’ll plan on keeping it packed in my kayak crate for many years of fishing. However, it’s expensive, and most anglers won’t have a need for it.

Overall Rating: 8 / 10

The post Wind & Water Won’t Touch You In The FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Bib Pant: OHUB Review appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Federal has taken their Peak Alloy technology and imbued that goodness into everyone’s favorite round creating something entirely in the 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak. With Peak Alloy casings and an assortment of quality products from Federal, they have been able to successfully add 200+ FPS (feet per second) to a standard 6.5 Creedmoor round. This equates to a faster, flatter, and more lethal cartridge on wild game as well steel without the need to buy a new firearm – you can shoot 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak in your normal 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. 

Federal Coverage on OutdoorHub

• Federal Agrees with U.S. Army to Accelerate High-Performance Ammo
• Federal’s FireStick Approved in Texas for Muzzleloader Season
• Federal Program Offers Up to $100 Rebate for Lead-Free Ammunition
• Louisiana Approves Federal FireStick for Primitive Season

The NEW Federal 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Cartridge

The upsell to this new cartridge is that it is in common use (it can be used in regular 6.5 Creedmoor) and it hops up your ballistics to levels higher than 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge). So, if you want to take your normal 6.5 Creedmoor on a Western hunt and really stretch its legs, you can do that and then some!

The MSRP pricing for 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak will be similar to standard 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 PRC loads, which range from $59.99 to $78.99 for a box of 20 rounds. The new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak is a high-pressure version of the trusted 6.5 Creedmoor. It has the same external dimensions as a conventional 6.5 Creedmoor and is compatible with existing 6.5 Creedmoor rifles. With a Peak Alloy case, it’s loaded to 80,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), producing muzzle velocities 300 fps faster and beyond 3,000 fps in select loads, while maintaining similar perceived recoil.

A Word from Federal on the NEW 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Cartridge

Anoka, Minnesota – June 5th, 2026 – “When Federal introduced the 7mm Backcountry cartridge in 2025, we set the wheels in motion that will forever change high-performance rifle ammunition performance,” said Chairman and CEO Jason Vanderbrink. “We are now excited to roll out another Peak Alloy cartridge option. Our 7mm Backcountry and all-new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak truly unlock unprecedented performance and are ushering in a new era of ammunition. The best part of the 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak is that hunters and target shooters are likely to already own a rifle that can shoot it,” said Vanderbrink.

“We saw the big-picture potential for this technology from the start,” said Mike Holm, Federal’s Director of Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. “It was obvious what Peak Alloy meant for legacy cartridges, and considering the popularity of 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak was the natural place to show the world what it could do. We will first offer 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak in 130-grain Terminal Ascent and a 155-grain Fusion Tipped, with current plans to ship the new cartridge to dealers in August of 2026 and make it available online. Soon to follow will be loads in Gold Medal Sierra Tipped MatchKing, Barnes LRX and Berger Elite Hunter.”

Final Thoughts

So, what are your thoughts on the new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak cartridge? While for some they might not be quick to call it a new cartridge, its capabilities definitely put it into the category of a new round. More velocity, more Foot-Lbs of energy, and less need for dialing as it is a flatter shooting round. All positive attributes that hunters and shooters can appreciate. 

As always, let us know all of your thoughts about the new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak cartridge debuted by Federal in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback and engagement. 

The post Federal’s Newest Hot-Rod! The NEW 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Cartridge appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Utah’s wildlife management landscape is shifting this year with three significant updates from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. These changes affect bear hunting opportunities, predator-prey research, and digital privacy protections for hunters. Whether you’re planning a Utah hunting trip or you live in-state, here’s what you need to know about the new bear hunting unit, the cougar-mule deer predation study, and GPS location protections.

New Bear Hunting Unit Established in Utah

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has created a new bear hunting unit to better manage the state’s black bear population and provide additional hunting opportunities. This marks the first new bear unit designation in several years and reflects changing bear distribution patterns across the state.

The new unit addresses areas where bear populations have expanded beyond traditional ranges. Wildlife managers have documented increased bear activity in regions that previously saw minimal bear presence, prompting the need for updated management boundaries.

Hunters who’ve applied for limited-entry bear permits in the past will notice this new option when preference points are calculated for upcoming seasons. Unit creation doesn’t automatically mean more total permits; the allocation simply redistributes hunting pressure to better align with current bear population data.

Application procedures remain consistent with existing bear hunting units. Hunters must still complete the required bear identification course before applying for permits. This course teaches proper identification techniques to distinguish black bears from other wildlife and to differentiate between sows with cubs, which are protected, and legal harvest targets.

Cougar-Mule Deer Predation Study Launched

Utah wildlife officials have initiated a multi-year research project examining the impacts of cougar predation on mule deer populations. This study comes as mule deer numbers in certain regions have declined despite habitat improvement efforts and favorable weather conditions in recent years.

Researchers will collar both cougars and mule deer in selected study areas to track movement patterns, predation events, and survival rates. The data collection focuses on understanding how cougar hunting behavior affects different mule deer age classes and whether predation pressure varies by season, terrain, or deer density.

This research has direct implications for both predator and prey management strategies. If findings show significant predation pressure in specific areas, wildlife managers may adjust cougar harvest recommendations or modify permit numbers. Conversely, if other factors prove more significant than predation, resources can be directed toward those limiting factors instead.

The study area [UNVERIFIED: specific location details not confirmed] will see increased wildlife monitoring equipment, including trail cameras and GPS collar downloads. Hunters in these regions may encounter research teams in the field during data collection periods.

Preliminary results are expected within 18-24 months, with the full study spanning three to five years to capture sufficient data under varying conditions. Utah’s mule deer population is a priority for both wildlife managers and the hunting community, making this research particularly relevant for long-term deer herd management.

GPS Location Privacy Protections for Predator Hunters

A new regulation protects the GPS location data of hunters who harvest predators on public lands in Utah. This privacy measure prevents the mandatory disclosure of exact harvest locations when reporting predator kills, a change that addresses growing concerns about digital privacy and hunting spot security.

Previously, location data collection requirements varied by species and reporting method. The updated regulation establishes consistent privacy standards across predator species, including coyotes, bobcats, and foxes, harvested outside of limited-entry units.

Hunters are still required to report predator harvests within the established timeframes. The change only affects the specificity of location information required. Instead of GPS coordinates or precise mapping data, hunters can now report general areas using broader geographic identifiers.

This protection emerged from hunter feedback that publicly accessible databases could expose productive hunting locations. With increasing numbers of hunters using digital harvest-reporting apps that automatically capture GPS data, concerns have grown about how that information might be accessed or shared.

The regulation doesn’t affect harvest reporting requirements for species with limited-entry permits or for areas where specific population data is needed for management decisions. Big-game species, including bears harvested in the new unit mentioned earlier, still require detailed location reporting for population monitoring.

What These Changes Mean for Utah Hunters

These three updates reflect how wildlife management adapts to changing conditions, new data, and stakeholder input. For practical purposes, here’s how they affect your hunting plans:

If you hunt bears, review the new unit boundaries before submitting your next application. The redistricting may improve your odds in certain areas or open opportunities in regions closer to your home base.

Deer hunters should pay attention to the cougar study results as they emerge. Management decisions based on this research could affect both deer and predator hunting strategies in your preferred units over the next several years.

Predator hunters gain privacy protections without losing the convenience of digital reporting. You can use harvest reporting apps without worrying that your exact hunting locations become part of searchable public records.

How to Comply with New Wildlife Regulations

Staying compliant with these changes is straightforward. For the new bear unit, simply check the updated unit map on the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website before your next application period. The digital guidebook and application portal will reflect the new boundaries.

For the cougar-mule deer study, no action is required from hunters unless you’re contacted directly by researchers. If you harvest a deer or cougar in a study area, reporting procedures remain the same.

GPS privacy protection is enabled automatically in the harvest reporting system. When you report predator harvests through the app or website, you’ll notice the location fields have been modified to no longer require precise coordinates for covered species.

Always verify you’re using the current year’s proclamation, as regulations can change annually beyond these specific updates. The proclamations are available free online and outline all current hunting regulations, seasons, and units.

Timeline and Implementation Details

The new bear hunting unit takes effect with the next license application period. Specific dates vary by hunt type (limited-entry, once-in-a-lifetime, etc.), but generally align with the standard February through March application window for most big game species.

The cougar-mule deer study is already underway, with researchers actively collaring animals and collecting baseline data. Public updates will be shared through the Division of Wildlife Resources website and at regional wildlife board meetings.

GPS location privacy protections are currently active in the harvest reporting system. Any predator-harvest reports from this point forward fall under the new privacy standards.

For the most current information on any of these changes, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or contact your regional office directly. Wildlife board meetings are open to the public and provide opportunities to hear detailed presentations on these and other management decisions.

, –

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the new bear hunting unit increase the total number of bear permits available?

Not necessarily. The new unit redistributes management focus to align with the current bear population distribution. Total permit numbers are determined by population estimates and management objectives, which are evaluated separately from unit boundaries.

Will the cougar-mule deer study affect my ability to hunt in the study areas?

No, the study doesn’t restrict hunting access or opportunities. You can hunt normally in study areas. Researchers ask that, if you encounter collared animals, you report the sighting; however, this is voluntary and doesn’t affect your hunt.

What predator species are covered by the GPS location privacy protections?

The protections apply to predators and furbearers harvested outside of limited-entry scenarios, including coyotes, foxes, and bobcats in most circumstances. Species with limited permits or those in areas requiring detailed population monitoring may still require specific location data.

How do I find the boundaries of the new bear hunting unit?

The updated unit map is available on the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website in the big game hunting section. The boundaries will also appear in the official proclamation and in the digital application system when you apply for permits.

When will the cougar-mule deer study results be available?

Preliminary findings are expected within 18-24 months of the study’s start. Complete results covering multiple years of data will take approximately three to five years. The Division will share updates at public meetings and through official communications channels as significant findings emerge.

Do I still need to report predator harvests under the new privacy rules?

Yes, harvest reporting requirements remain in place. The change only affects the level of location detail required, not whether you must report the harvest. Reporting timeframes and basic harvest information requirements are unchanged.

Can I still apply my bear preference points to the old units?

Yes, all existing bear hunting units remain available for applications. The new unit is an additional option, not a replacement for existing units. Your preference points apply to whichever unit you select during the application process.

The post Utah Wildlife Management Changes: New Bear Hunting Unit, Cougar-Mule Deer Study, and GPS Location Protections for Predator Hunters appeared first on OutdoorHub.

New research shows the actual fish harvest in Minnesota is more than double the state’s official estimate, raising questions about forward-facing sonar and future regulations.

Minnesota anglers are pulling a lot more fish out of the water than anyone realized. A new study published in the journal Fisheries estimates that freshwater anglers in the state harvest about 80 million pounds of fish every year. That is more than twice the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources official estimate of 30 million pounds.

The catch? The state’s estimate was last updated in 2001. A lot has changed since then.

Why the Numbers Are So Far Apart

Two big things have shifted since the DNR ran its last harvest study. First, there are simply more anglers on the water. Fishing participation surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and has stayed high. About 26 percent of all Minnesota residents age 16 and older fish at least once per year, according to state data.

Second, and more controversial, is forward-facing sonar. FFS technology lets anglers locate fish far faster than old-school depth finders. Anyone who has used it on open-water walleyes or crappies on a basin can tell you it changes everything. You can drop into a lake you have never fished before and find fish in minutes.

The study was conducted by researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Missouri, the University of Louisiana, and Memorial University of Newfoundland. They analyzed thousands of angler surveys and creel surveys from across the country to build state-by-state harvest estimates. The Minnesota numbers cover fish taken from lakes only; rivers were not included.

Is This a Problem?

Minnesota fisheries chief Brad Parsons told the Star Tribune that the state is not treating this as a crisis. “We have been looking at harvest over time, and we don’t see over-harvest generally as a problem,” he said. The DNR is now conducting its own updated harvest study to get current numbers.

Still, the state was already moving to tighten limits before this study came out. Minnesota has proposed cutting the walleye bag limit from six fish to four starting in 2027. Parsons said the move is about being proactive, not reactive.

Not everyone is relaxed about it. Terry Thurmer has run a harbor and boat launch on Mille Lacs Lake for more than 30 years. He sees a few thousand boats each season and estimates about 25 percent now carry FFS equipment. He expects that number to keep climbing.

“It will cause holy hell on smaller lakes,” Thurmer said. “Guys can get on a little lake they’ve never fished before and find panfish right away.”

At Frankie’s Live Bait and Marine in Chisago City, dealer Bud Dusenka said virtually every top-end boat they sell now goes out with FFS. “Everybody either wants it or adds it later,” he said.

A Three-Year Study Is Now Underway

Researchers at the University of Minnesota are launching a three-year project aimed specifically at understanding how FFS affects fish populations. The study will survey anglers about how they use the technology and compare catch results with and without it during both open-water and ice fishing seasons. The state approved $676,000 in funding.

Researcher Cam Mosley told Minnesota Public Radio that the goal is to give fisheries managers better data before they write new rules. Right now, there is almost no hard science on whether FFS is actually depleting fish populations. The new study aims to fix that.

Banning FFS outright is widely considered a non-starter. The technology is too widespread and the enforcement problems too large. More likely, managers will look at harvest limits and seasonal restrictions if the data points toward problems.

What It Means for Anglers

If you fish in Minnesota, expect regulations to tighten over the next several years. The walleye bag limit change in 2027 is almost certainly not the last adjustment. The state now knows its old harvest numbers were badly out of date, and a fresh study is underway to set a new baseline.

For walleye anglers in particular, the window of relatively loose limits may be closing. Smaller lakes with panfish and crappie could face added scrutiny too, especially as FFS ownership keeps growing. Fish smarter now while the rules still allow it.

Sources

• https://www.outdoorlife.com/fishing/fish-harvest-minnesota/

The post Minnesota Anglers Are Harvesting 80 Million Pounds of Fish Per Year, Study Finds appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Maryland’s Universal Disability Pass gives qualifying residents free hunting and fishing licenses. Here is how to apply and who is eligible.

If you are a Maryland resident with a qualifying disability, you may be able to hunt and fish in the state for free. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers a Universal Disability Pass that waives license fees for eligible applicants, including disabled veterans and people with documented physical disabilities.

The program is designed to remove cost barriers for residents who want to stay connected to outdoor recreation. It covers hunting and fishing licenses issued through the state.

Who Qualifies

The pass is open to Maryland residents who can document a qualifying disability. Accepted documentation includes:

• A Veterans Affairs disability determination letter
• An MVA Disability Parking Certification
• Certification by a licensed health care professional

You do not need to be a veteran to qualify. Anyone with a documented disability recognized by a licensed healthcare provider may be eligible. The VA determination letter option makes this especially useful for disabled vets who already have that paperwork on file.

How to Apply

The application process runs through Maryland’s online licensing system, MD Outdoors. Here is what to do:

Step 1: Create or log into your account at mdoutdoors.maryland.gov. If you have held a Maryland hunting or fishing license since 2017, your information is already in the system. Use “Customer Lookup” to find your account. New users can create an account and print a DNRid card showing their DNRid number.

Step 2: Complete the Application for Universal Disability Pass. You will need your name, DNR ID number, phone number, signature, and date. Attach one of the accepted disability documents listed above.

Step 3: Submit your application to any Maryland DNR service center by mail, email, or in person. Note that the Cumberland service center does not accept mail submissions, so plan accordingly if that is your nearest location.

Why This Matters

Hunting and fishing license fees add up fast. Annual resident combination licenses in Maryland run over $20 before stamps and endorsements. For a hunter or angler on a fixed income or disability benefits, those costs are real. The Universal Disability Pass removes them entirely.

Access programs like this one are more common than many people realize, but they are underused because they require you to know they exist and go through an application process. If you or someone you know has a qualifying disability, it is worth taking 15 minutes to apply.

Disabled veteran hunters and anglers are a significant part of the outdoor community. Programs like this one acknowledge that physical limitations should not determine who gets to be in the field or on the water. Maryland’s approach is straightforward, and the documentation requirements are reasonable.

Other States Have Similar Programs

Maryland is not alone here. Most states offer some form of reduced-fee or free licensing for residents with qualifying disabilities. If you live outside Maryland, check your state’s wildlife agency website. Search for “disability hunting license” or “disability fishing license” along with your state name. Many programs have low application volume simply because people do not know they exist.

For Maryland residents, the path is clear. Gather your documentation, create your MD Outdoors account, and submit the form. Hunting and fishing are hard enough. Paperwork should not be the reason someone stays home.

Sources

• https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/udp-instructions.aspx

The post Maryland Offers a Free Universal Disability Pass for Hunters and Anglers appeared first on OutdoorHub.

How to Save $150 on Dead Air and BANISH Suppressors: Silencer Central Rebate Guide

If you’re in the market for a quality suppressor this summer, Silencer Central just made the decision a lot easier. The company is offering a $150 rebate on select Dead Air and BANISH suppressors through early July 2026, and I’m going to walk you through exactly how to claim it, which models qualify, and what you can do with that rebate money once your new suppressor ships.

Silencer Central $150 Rebate: Quick Overview

According to a statement from Silencer Central, the rebate runs from June 1, 2026, through July 6, 2026. Here’s what makes this promotion worth your attention: when you purchase a qualifying suppressor, you’ll receive a $150 rebate code via email as soon as your suppressor ships. That code can go toward your next suppressor purchase from the same brand or toward accessories totaling more than $150.

Brandon Maddox, Silencer Central Founder and CEO, explained the reasoning behind the promotion: “Summer is nearly here, people are getting outside and enjoying warmer days at the range. We really wanted to make sure that this year more people are shooting suppressed. We partnered with Dead Air and BANISH Suppressors to promote their most popular suppressors and offer some additional value to our customers.”

Eligible Suppressors for the $150 Rebate

The qualifying criteria are straightforward. For BANISH suppressors, any model priced at $699 or above makes you eligible. For Dead Air, any centerfire suppressor in their lineup qualifies for the rebate.

This means you have plenty of options depending on your specific needs, whether you’re looking for a dedicated rifle can, a pistol suppressor, or something versatile that can handle multiple calibers.

How to Claim Your $150 Silencer Central Rebate

The claim process is simpler than you might expect. There’s no mail-in form to track down or rebate card to wait weeks for in the mail. Here’s the step-by-step:

1. Purchase a qualifying Dead Air or BANISH suppressor from Silencer Central between June 1 and July 6, 2026
2. Complete your ATF paperwork and wait for approval (the normal suppressor purchase process)
3. Once your suppressor ships, you’ll receive a $150 rebate code via email automatically
4. Use that code before November 30, 2026

The brand-specific structure means Dead Air rebate codes work on Dead Air products, and BANISH codes work on BANISH products. You can’t mix and match between brands, but you do have flexibility in how you spend it.

What You Can Do with Your $150 Rebate

This is where the promotion gets interesting. You have two main options:

Option 1: Put it toward another suppressor. If you’ve been thinking about building out your suppressor collection, this essentially gives you $150 off your second can. Many shooters end up wanting multiple suppressors once they experience the hearing protection and reduced recoil benefits, so this discount on a future purchase makes expanding your collection more affordable.

Option 2: Use it on accessories. Not ready to commit to another suppressor right away? You can apply the rebate code to any accessory order over $150 on Silencer Central’s website. This could cover muzzle devices, piston kits, suppressor covers, or other gear you need.

The rebate codes expire November 30, 2026, so you have nearly six months from the end of the promotion period to decide how to use yours.

BANISH Suppressors Included in the Promotion

The BANISH line represents Silencer Central’s house brand of suppressors. Models like the Banish 30-V2 and Banish 36 fall into the $699-and-up category that qualifies for this rebate.

The BANISH suppressors are known for their modular designs that let you adjust length and performance characteristics. If you’re new to suppressors and want versatility in a single can, the BANISH line gives you that flexibility while this promotion is active.

Dead Air Suppressors Eligible for $150 Back

Dead Air has built a strong reputation in the suppressor industry for durability and performance. According to the promotion details, any centerfire Dead Air suppressor qualifies, which gives you access to their full lineup of rifle and pistol cans.

Dead Air suppressors are popular among competitive shooters and recreational users alike, and getting $150 back toward your next Dead Air purchase or accessories makes an already solid value even better.

Important Dates and Terms for the Rebate Offer

Mark these dates on your calendar:

• Promotion period: June 1, 2026 through July 6, 2026
• Rebate code expiration: November 30, 2026
• When codes are delivered: As soon as your suppressor ships

One important restriction: according to Silencer Central, rebate codes cannot be combined with other promotions. If you’re looking at multiple deals, factor that into your decision.

Making the Most of This Limited-Time Offer

Maddox summarized the company’s goal with this promotion: “We want more people to enjoy shooting and protect their hearing, and we know that once you start shooting suppressed, you won’t want to go back. This rebate provides $150 towards those future purchases and growing collections.”

That observation aligns with what I’ve seen in the shooting community. The barrier to entry for suppressors often isn’t just the cost of one can, it’s the realization that you’ll probably want several once you experience the benefits. This rebate acknowledges that reality and makes building a collection more accessible.

If you’re already planning to buy a suppressor this summer, timing your purchase during this five-week window gets you an extra $150 in value. For complete details and to browse qualifying models, you can visit Silencer Central’s deals page at https://www.silencercentral.com/deals/.

The hearing protection, reduced recoil, and improved shooting experience that suppressors provide make them a worthwhile investment. Getting $150 back to put toward your next purchase or necessary accessories just makes that investment smarter.

The post Silencer Central: $150 Rebate on Dead Air and BANISH Suppressors appeared first on OutdoorHub.

I’ve worn the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate pants while fishing, going to church, riding my ebike, and checking off my honey-dos for the last several months. These waterproof fishing pants have several features that have stood out and made me love them. However, there are also a few areas that need improvement. Keep reading my honest FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Pant review to find out why I’m a big fan of these waterproof pants, despite having some flaws and inconveniences.

Specs & Materials

• Lightweight nylon Omni-Stretch outer shell with DWR finish
• 15k Waterproof / 15k Breathable HydrX Pro membrane
• Fully seam-sealed
• Waterproof zippered hand pockets
• Packable into hand pockets
• Elastic waist with inside drawcord
• Waterproof lower leg zippers
• Reflective screen-printed logos
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, or 3XL
• Colors: Black or Grey
• MSRP: $160

Fit & Comfort

The Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate pant is designed to wear all day or quickly slip over another pair of pants before a rainstorm hits. I’ve found them to be lightweight and very comfortable. I can wear them all day without a single complaint. I’m on the short side (5’6”) and received a large because I generally wear a 32-33 waist and thought the mediums might be a little tight. The elastic waist stretches enough to fit over an underlayer (even when I’m wearing jeans), and the drawstring keeps them tight when I’m wearing them as regular pants. The large is a bit long-legged for my short legs (my 6’ friends would find the length ideal), but it’s very manageable once I’m wearing my shoes. Since my pair is black, they can get a bit toasty in the sun, but the breathable material keeps them comfortable in warm weather.

Rating: 9 / 10

Weather Resistance

The HydrX Pro membrane ensures these pants are waterproof. My legs stayed completely dry while fishing and riding my ebike in the rain. The water rolls right off the pants, whether I’m standing or sitting. I love that all the zippers are also waterproof, so nothing leaks, including my pockets, during heavy rain. While these pants cut the wind pretty well, they are by no means warm on their own. For winter fishing, I definitely need a warm underlayer, but in spring they’ve been good on their own. For summer, I plan to have them in my kayak if rainstorms are possible, but primarily wear shorts because they can get a little warm in the sun.

Rating: 8 / 10

Mobility & Performance

Even though they’re made from lightweight nylon Omni-Stretch, I don’t consider them to be super stretchy. They have just enough stretch that I never feel restricted while moving. Including while climbing into a boat or truck, hiking my leg over my ebike’s seat, or just walking around. Most importantly, they shed water and are easy to clean when dirty.

Rating: 9 / 10

Storage & Pocket Layout

My biggest frustration with the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate pant is that it has only two front pockets. The two front pockets hold (and protect from water) everything (phone, wallet, keys, etc.) I need for a day on the water; however, I wish it had back pockets. I have a habit of keeping my phone in my back pocket and find it very frustrating when I don’t have a back pocket to put it in while standing or walking. The cool thing about the pockets is that they’re designed to fit the entire pant into one, so you can easily pack them.

Rating:

7 / 10

Durability & Construction

After several months of normal use (bank fishing, walking, and riding my bike), I don’t see any fraying seams or fading. I wouldn’t be afraid to search for a new hidden bank fishing spot in these, but I definitely wouldn’t want to bust through the brush every single day in them. They should hold up very well for the average angler.

Rating: 8/ 10

Versatility & Use Cases

While the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate pant is primarily designed for rainy days and days on the water, I’ve worn them around town and while doing honey-dos without any concerns. They look good (according to my outdoor dad fashion sense), they’re comfortable, and have a few features that make them unique. Even if they’re not your everyday pants, they’re great to store on the boat or kayak for a surprise rainstorm, or in the truck for a quick change of pants.

Rating: 8 / 10

Value & Competition

$160 is a bit pricey for a specialty pair of pants you’ll only wear occasionally, but I think the unique features and versatility justify the cost. Staying dry while fishing will keep you on the water longer on those cool days when the fish love to bite, and that’s worth a significant investment in my opinion. Since you’re not only limited to fishing in them, you can definitely get your money’s worth.

Rating: 8 / 10

Overall Rating: FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Pant Review

While I don’t love the price, it’s a bit high (but still reasonable compared to many other high-end outdoor brands); being comfortable in the rain and ensuring my phone and wallet are protected (while in my pockets) are significant benefits. Anglers who often fish in the rain or need a packable pair of pants will be very satisfied with the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Pant. I sure have been and will continue to wear them.

Overall Rating:  8.1 / 10

The post Battling Big Fish & Water in the FXR Adventure Lite Tri-Laminate Pant: OHUB Review appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Five juvenile ʻalalā released on Maui in 2024 are alive, foraging, and expanding their range on the slopes of Haleakalā.

A crow has not lived freely in Hawaiian forests for more than 20 years. That may be changing. Five Hawaiian crows, known as ʻalalā, are foraging and thriving in the forests of East Maui after being released into the wild in late 2024. All five birds are still alive. That alone is a milestone.

The ʻalalā was declared extinct in the wild in 2002. There are only about 110 of the birds left, all living in captivity at facilities on Maui and the Big Island. The species is found nowhere else on Earth. It has been one of the most difficult comeback stories in American wildlife conservation.

Why Maui, and Why Now

Previous efforts to release ʻalalā on Hawaiʻi Island failed. Between 2016 and 2019, scientists released 30 birds into the Puʻu Makaʻala Natural Area Reserve. Some birds survived for years. Others did not. A Hawaiian hawk called the ʻio, a native raptor found only on Hawaiʻi Island, began hunting the released crows. Scientists pulled the surviving birds out to protect them. Researchers believe at least 25 crows died.

Maui changes the equation. The ʻio does not live on Maui. That removes the biggest threat the birds faced on Hawaiʻi Island. Scientists with the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service identified the Kīpahulu Forest Reserve on the leeward slopes of Haleakalā as a promising site. Historical records suggest ʻalalā or a closely related crow species lived on Maui long ago.

In November 2024, three males and two females were released into that forest. Field crews from the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project have watched them daily since.

What the Birds Are Doing

The crows are doing what crows do. They are exploring. They are socializing. They are foraging for food in the forest canopy. Researchers say the birds are showing natural behaviors and expanding their flight range as they grow more comfortable with their environment.

Tess Hebebrand, an aviculture specialist with the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, described the birds as healthy and active. She noted some minor illness along the way, but the birds recovered on their own. No losses. No major setbacks.

The ʻalalā is not just any bird. It is an intelligent, tool-using species. Researchers have documented ʻalalā using sticks to extract food from tree bark, a behavior shared with only a handful of bird species worldwide. They are also critical to the forest itself. ʻAlalā disperse seeds of native Hawaiian plants as they move through the trees, helping the forest regenerate. Losing them means losing a key part of how Hawaiian ecosystems function.

In Hawaiian culture, the ʻalalā is considered an ʻaumākua, a family guardian spirit. Their return to wild forests carries cultural weight that goes beyond biology.

More Birds Coming

Scientists plan to release two more ʻalalā into the same forest area, one male and one female. Adding birds will help researchers understand how the species adapts over time and whether the group can eventually sustain itself without human support. The Hawaiʻi Division of Forestry and Wildlife and partner organizations including the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance continue to fund and support the program.

Planning is also underway for future releases back on Hawaiʻi Island, where the species historically lived. How that effort moves forward depends in part on what researchers learn from the Maui pilot.

What This Means for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The ʻalalā story is a conservation win at a time when those feel rare. Hawaiian forests have lost much of their native bird life to disease, habitat loss, and introduced predators. Getting a species back into the wild after 22 years of extinction is not a small thing.

It also points to a broader truth about habitat. Native forests that support species like the ʻalalā also support watersheds, fisheries, and the land hunters and anglers depend on across the island chain. Conservation gains here tend to ripple outward.

Field crews check on the birds every day. The ʻalalā are still alive, still learning, still foraging through the trees above East Maui. After two decades of silence, that sound is coming back.

Sources

• https://www.facebook.com/alalaproject/posts/1301343088820482/
• https://www.civilbeat.org/2026/01/hawaiis-critically-endangered-crow-is-soaring-in-maui-forests/
• https://www.mauiforestbirds.org/alala-recovery/

The post Hawaii’s Rarest Crow Is Learning to Forage in the Wild Again After Two Decades of Extinction appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Federal wildlife investigators say a California man used fake paperwork and wild-caught turtles to try to build an illegal reptile export operation that stretched from Florida to Taiwan.

Donald Do, of Daly City, California, was arrested this month on federal wildlife trafficking charges tied to an alleged scheme involving nearly 300 protected loggerhead musk turtles. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, investigators say Do falsely claimed the turtles had been captive-bred to secure a federal export permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Authorities allege the turtles were actually poached from the wild in Florida and other southeastern states before being shipped to California for export to Asia. Investigators say Do specifically told sellers he was willing to purchase “wild caught” turtles and provided instructions for shipments headed to San Francisco.

The loggerhead musk turtle was added to the protected species list under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species in November 2022, making permits and documentation critical for any international trade involving the species.

Federal officials say Do and a co-conspirator attempted to export 292 turtles to Taiwan between December 2022 and May 2024. The investigation also linked the case to Louisiana man Albert Bazaar, who authorities accuse of illegally poaching and selling more than 1,700 loggerhead musk turtles.

The case is part of a larger crackdown on turtle poaching across the southeastern United States known as “Operation Southern Hot Herps,” a joint investigation involving federal and state wildlife agencies.

Under the Lacey Act, it is illegal to transport or sell wildlife taken in violation of state law or to provide false information tied to wildlife involved in interstate or international commerce. If convicted, Do could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each charge.

The arrest comes as another major reptile trafficking case recently ended in federal sentencing.

Earlier this week, a California man, Jose Manuel Perez, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison after authorities uncovered a wildlife smuggling operation involving more than 1,700 reptiles imported illegally from Mexico and China.

Federal prosecutors said Perez and his associates trafficked species, including Yucatan box turtles, baby crocodiles, Mexican beaded lizards, and Mexican box turtles. Authorities estimated the reptiles carried a combined market value of more than $739,000.

Investigators said the operation relied heavily on social media to advertise wildlife sales and coordinate deliveries. In one 2022 arrest at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, border agents reportedly discovered dozens of reptiles hidden inside Perez’s clothing, pockets, and groin area as he attempted to cross into the United States.

Wildlife officials say the cases show how demand from collectors and overseas buyers continues to fuel illegal reptile trafficking across North America.

The post California Man Accused of Smuggling Protected Turtles appeared first on OutdoorHub.

Initiative Petition 28, known as the PEACE Act, short for “People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions,” has been making waves since it first surfaced as a serious threat to Oregon’s hunting and  fishing communities. The proposal would remove longstanding exemptions from the state’s animal cruelty statutes, effectively criminalizing catching fish and taking game.

Organizers have been gathering signatures since February 2024 and need 117,173 valid signatures by July 2 to qualify for the November ballot. They’ve recently surpassed that minimum threshold, but with Oregon’s historical signature rejection rate averaging around 21 percent, the campaign isn’t over the finish line just yet.

While many sportsmen view IP 28 as a direct attack on hunting and fishing, Marie Neumiller, Manager of Western States for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, says the bill’s effects would stretch far beyond the woods and waterways. “The bill itself goes so much farther than just hunting and fishing,” Neumiller said. “I want to make sure that people in Oregon understand the impacts would go beyond that, that even if you don’t hunt and fish, it will have an impact on your life.

At its core, the PEACE Act would strip away every exemption in Oregon’s animal cruelty statutes, and the consequences would be devastating. Animal agriculture would effectively end within the state. University and pharmaceutical research labs that rely on animal testing would be forced to shut down. Wildlife management as we know it would cease to exist. Even placing a simple mousetrap in your own home would be illegal.

“A mousetrap would be illegal,” Neumiller confirmed. “People have questioned that and what the animal rights group recommends is trapping mice with a humane trap and relocating them. Also they give the option of using  animal birth control. Those would be the only options for dealing with mice in a house or restaurant.

The bill’s language around self-defense is equally troubling. The only exemption for injuring or killing an animal would apply when a person faces an immediate, life-threatening attack. Neumiller pointed to a real-world example that illustrates just how unworkable that standard could be. Earlier this year, a coyote was roaming a Salem neighborhood and biting residents.

Under IP 28, wildlife agencies may have been powerless to act. “If you have this coyote that’s roaming around and it’s biting people but then running away, can the agency manage the animal or not?” Neumiller asked. “That becomes a legal question because of how vague the language appears.” Even something as routine as tethering a horse to a trailer could expose an owner to criminal liability under the proposed law.

In the last decade, Portland has built a well-earned reputation as a world-class food city, with chefs and restaurants proudly showcasing locally sourced and locally grown products. That identity would vanish overnight if IP 28 passes. “All meat products would have to be imported from other states,” Neumiller said. “Whether it’s seafood, it would have to come from Washington or California. It couldn’t come from Oregon. Locally grown Wagyu beef wouldn’t be a thing unless they were sourcing it out of Vancouver, Washington.” The result, she warns, would be higher grocery prices for everyday Oregonians as local markets disappear and supply chains stretch further to fill the void

For now, the signature verification process will determine whether IP 28 makes it to the November ballot. If it does, Neumiller says the time to act is now, before it ever gets to a vote. “Right now is just an opportunity for people to tell their story,” she said. “What does hunting mean to me? What does fishing mean to me? Why is trapping important? Why is animal agriculture a beneficial item for Oregon’s economy and Oregon’s communities?”

It is worth noting that the proponents of IP 28 have openly admitted they do not expect to win this year. Their goal is to get the conversation started, plant a seed, and slowly shift public opinion until the votes are there. That alone should serve as a wake-up call.

If IP 28 qualifies for the ballot, Oregon sportsmen, farmers, ranchers, restaurant owners, and everyday citizens will need to show up and vote no. The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and its partners are already building coalitions to oppose the measure, but the most powerful tool remains the same one it has always been. An informed and engaged public that understands exactly what is at stake.

The post Oregon’s PEACE Act Is About Far More Than Hunting and Fishing appeared first on OutdoorHub.

SORD Fishing Products is one of the newer names in the fishing tool and fillet knife world, first coming to the market in 2020. They started strong, aiming to provide high-quality knives and tools for hardcore anglers who want only the best. I spent almost the last year now using the SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife to break down a variety of fish. This is an all-around general-purpose workhorse of a fillet knife, with a flexible 7-in blade that is nimble enough to break down smaller species like panfish yet robust enough for larger bottom fish and pelagics. So let’s see if the 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife lived up to the SORD self-imposed “Built for the Crazy Ones” toughness standard.

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Specifications – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

• Overall Length – 12.79 inches (32.49 cm)
• Blade Length – 7 inches (17.78 cm)
• Blade Thickness – 0.055 inches (1.41 mm)
• Handle Thickness – 0.709 inches (18.00 mm)
• Blade Material – 5cr15mov steel
• Blade Style – Fillet Knife
• Mechanism – Fixed Blade
• Blade Finish –Teflon and Titanium Coating
• Blade Color – Black
• Handle Material – G10
• Handle Color –Black and White
• Weight – 7.37 oz | 208.94
• Warranty – Lifetime Warranty for Manufacturer Defects
• MSRP: $100

This is a flexible fillet knife with a 7-inch coated 5cr15mov carbon steel blade. Built to last, all SORD fillet knives feature a Teflon and titanium coating to deter corrosion and inert G10 grips for better handling, even when wet. They all ship with a kydex sheath, which has a belt clip that has plenty of positive retention to protect you and the edge of the blade.

Test Methods & Conditions – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

I used the 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife as my general-purpose fillet knife for the past 10 months, for breaking down anything I caught and kept. So, from basic filleting and skinning to breaking down bait fish like the bonita shown above. I did not avoid pushing through bones or scales while breaking down larger fish.  For cutting surfaces, I stuck with plastic cutting boards and cleaning stations for the most part, taking care to avoid cutting on hard surfaces like steel or stone. There was no maintenance regimen during this entire testing period other than basic washing and drying the knife after use. The goal was to use the blade till the edge gave out or enough use and time had passed.

Out-of-Box Sharpness & First Prep – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

So the 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife ships with a Kydex sheath that has really positive retention, so no worries about the knife coming loose in your boat bag or something. The edge was pretty standard for a fillet knife, a 20-degree machine grind on both sides. Testing with my thumbnail found no imperfections in the edge right off the bat, with the knife biting in pretty well. Flexibility was just as advertised, capable of going perfectly flat against the cutting board. As for the handle, the first thing I noticed was its weight. While not a negative, it was definitely different to have such a handle-heavy fillet knife. The handle material itself offers tons of grip, though. First use was filleting up some mahi we had caught while out with SeaKeeper after ICAST. The knife did very well, easily and cleanly breaking down the fish.

Rating:  9 / 10

Performance in the Kitchen – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

So generally, I prefer a stiffer fillet knife, as that’s what I learned to use when I first started cutting fish. So I was pleasantly surprised by this more flexible fillet knife and how well it worked at breaking down a variety of fish. While I did have to adjust to the knife, that bit of flexibility let the edge pretty much glide along the fish’s bones, leaving less meat on the frames. I could easily just go over the rib cage or through it; either way didn’t matter, as the 7″ Flexy could do both. I do need to mention I had a bit of trouble skinning fillets with the knife, though that’s probably just user error.

Rating:  9 / 10

Durability, Materials & Build Quality – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

For carbon steel, the 5cr15mov steel blade holds up well against rust and staining, even with plenty of saltwater use. While it is a widely used carbon steel for kitchen cutlery, 5cr15mov often suffers from knife makers just not doing a good job with heat treatment. I feel that is not the case here. The edge has held up well to the past 10 months of use, though it does need to be sharpened at this point, with a few small spots of edge rolling near the tip of the blade. With the Teflon and Titanium coating protecting most of the exposed metal, and the handle being inert G10, there is no noticeable discoloring or staining that I can find, even after almost a year.

Rating:  9 / 10

Handling, Balance & Ergonomics – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

As I mentioned before, the knife’s handle is definitely a bit beefy. While not too large to be comfortable to use, I could see someone with smaller hands maybe having an issue with the knife. The G10 does do well with fish slime and blood, though, letting you keep a firm grip on the fillet knife. While the balance point of the knife is almost a third of the way down the handle, I don’t see an issue with it for how you fillet fish. Overall, it handles very well, even when filleting smaller fish like bluegill, just not as versatile a handle as I’ve seen with other fillet knives.

Rating:  7 / 10

Who It’s For / Who Should Skip It – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

I would say this knife is a great choice for just about any angler who wants something a bit more from a fillet knife. As a kind of jack-of-all-trades fillet knife, this works for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. While definitely more in the premium price range for a fillet knife, this is a solid knife I can see lasting for years with just some minimal care.

Value & Price-to-Performance – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

With an MSRP of $100 for the 7″ Flexy, this is definitely more of a premium product. But the knife performs well and holds up to regular use, while offering several nicer features compared to lower-cost filet knives. So I do see the value here, just if you’re prone to dropping things over the side of the boat, maybe look at a more budget knife option.

Rating:  8 / 10

Pros & Cons – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

Pros

• Can fillet a variety of different-sized fish
• Corrosion-Resistant Build
• Grippy Handle
• Quality Kydex Sheath

Cons

• Premium Price
• Handle Heavy

Care, Maintenance & Longevity Tips – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

As I am testing these knives till I feel they need to be sharpened, for maintenance and care, the 7″ Flexy only got a hand wash and dry every time after use. Other than that, there’s nothing you have to do to maintain the knife besides sharpening it. I broke down a lot of fish and a couple of geese with the knife before I noticed any noticeable changes in the edge. For anyone not testing out a knife, I recommend just checking your edge regularly with either a tomato. If you can easily slice the tomato, you should still be fine. If not, just take the knife to a 1000-grit wetstone at a 20-degree angle on both sides. When a burr forms on the second side, move up to a 3000- or 5000-grit wetstone for a final polish of the edge. Also, to keep your fillet knives in good condition for the long haul, don’t just throw them into the sink. That’s a good way to dull your edge and damage your knife tip.

Rating:  9 / 10

The Verdict – SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife

If you are an angler who fishes for a variety of different fish in both fresh and saltwater, and like having nice tools, look no further. The SORD Fishing Products 7″ Flexy Fillet Knife might be the fillet knife you are looking for. A solid generalist choice for breaking down a variety of fish, with good corrosion resistance and edge retention. It’s taken several coolers’ worth of fish at this point, and some waterfowl, to wear the edge down enough that I want to sharpen the knife. Even still, the knife is plenty sharp and usable. These are solid fillet knives that do live up to their premium price tag, and with proper care, should hold up to many seasons of filleting fish.

Overall Rating:  8.5 / 10

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On Thursday, hours before the opening day of the Southeast Atlantic Red Snapper season, a federal court blocked the opening of the recreational red snapper season in federal waters. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia stepped in and granted a preliminary injunction that stopped any Atlantic red snapper fishing under the exempted fishing permits (EFPs). This comes from a commercial fishing trade group, and others sued to block the recreational Atlantic red snapper season. So, for now, there is no red snapper harvest allowed in Atlantic federal waters for recreational anglers, but that is not the case for commercial anglers. As NOAA Fisheries has stated, the ruling does not affect commercial fishermen and that their season will be announced at a later date.

“The South Atlantic EFPs for Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina are no longer in effect until further order from the Court, and the recreational harvest of red snapper in the South Atlantic remains closed.” – NOAA Fisheries Bulletin

Fishing Coverage on OutdoorHub

• New Record Largemouth Bass Declared in Tennessee
• The Inaugural R3 Grant Recipients from FishAmerica Foundation
• NOAA Announces 93-Day 2026 Season for Gag Grouper in S. Atlantic Region
• Dominant Win by Tomasek at National Walleye Tour Opener on Lake Erie

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has declared it will fight for anglers and stand up to NOAA to allow anglers to fish for Atlantic red snapper. With Florida being the first of the four Southeast Atlantic states to plan on opening the Atlantic red snapper season in federal waters, it has made a quick policy change. Effective May 21st, FWC rescinded EO 26-11 to allow anglers to carry on with their Atlantic red snapper season opening weekend plans. This allows anglers to fish state waters for red snapper, with a recreational bag limit of 2 red snapper per person with a 20-in minimum size limit. This policy will remain in effect until further notice.

The post Judge Blocks Atlantic Red Snapper Season on the Eve of the Opener appeared first on OutdoorHub.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is encouraging anglers to get out and explore more of the state’s diverse fisheries with the launch of three new “Slam” fishing challenges this year.

The new programs challenge anglers to catch multiple species within a 24-hour period while fishing different types of Alaska waters. While the challenges come with certificates and commemorative stickers, they also appear designed to encourage anglers to branch out beyond their usual fishing spots and target species.

“These new challenges are a fun way for anglers to explore Alaska’s incredible fishing opportunities,” Statewide Communications Coordinator Ryan Ragan said in a statement. “We’re excited to offer recognition to successful anglers and to celebrate their accomplishments on the water.”

The new challenges are split into three categories based on the type of fishery.

Stream Slam: Anglers must catch a rainbow trout, Arctic grayling, and Dolly Varden within a 24-hour period while fishing Alaska’s flowing waters such as rivers and streams.

Stillwater Slam: This challenge focuses on Alaska’s lakes, ponds, and sloughs, where anglers must catch a lake trout, burbot, and northern pike within 24 hours.

Saltwater Slam: Saltwater anglers can complete this challenge by catching a halibut, lingcod, and any species of rockfish during a single 24-hour period in Alaska’s coastal waters.

The state says all eligible fish must be caught using rod and reel while following current Alaska sport fishing regulations.

The move adds Alaska to a growing list of states using “slam” style fishing challenges to encourage participation and showcase regional fisheries. Several states have created similar programs centered around catching multiple species tied to local waters and fish populations.

The Slam Challenge stems from challenges in other states. In Texas, anglers have long pursued the popular “Texas Grand Slam,” which traditionally involves catching a redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in a single trip. Florida saltwater anglers often chase inshore slams involving redfish, snook, and tarpon, while freshwater anglers in several states create their own unofficial bass, trout, or panfish slams.

What makes Alaska’s version unique is the sheer variety involved. An angler could go from targeting Arctic grayling in remote flowing rivers to chasing halibut and lingcod in saltwater, all under the same statewide challenge system.

The program also highlights species that don’t always receive the same level of national attention as Alaska’s famous salmon fisheries. Fish like burbot, Dolly Varden, and Arctic grayling are all included as part of the experience.

Successful participants will receive a signed certificate and a commemorative sticker corresponding to the completed challenge.

More information about the new slam challenges is available through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Division of Sport Fish.

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Shimano Pro Alex Davis had a great weekend on Lay Lake, Alabama, taking his first win at the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) Event on Lay Lake presented by Work Sharp. Fishing on the 12,000-acre reservoir south of Birmingham produced a three-day total of 53 pounds and 2 ounces for Alex Davis. While Davis may have taken the win, this wasn’t an easy feat. The tournament roster was packed with some of the best professional bass anglers in the nation in attendance. Davis won by just 12 ounces to beat out pro angler Patrick Walters, but those 12 ounces were enough to take home the $100,000 grand prize and keep his remarkable season going.

Fishing Coverage on OutdoorHub

• New Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Moeba – Scent Tech in an Urchin Bait
• New Record Largemouth Bass Declared in Tennessee
• The Inaugural R3 Grant Recipients from FishAmerica Foundation
• NOAA Announces 93-Day 2026 Season for Gag Grouper in S. Atlantic Region

For gear, Shimano Pro Alex Davis relied heavily on his Shimano gear to effectively target the fish in different conditions around Lay Lake. Davis can be seen above holding a Curado 72MH Rod paired with a Curado 150 M, which he used with great success throughout the NPFL tournament. A durable reel built for smooth casting and precision control of your lures, it features Shimano’s MGL Spool III, SVS Infinity braking, and Hagane Body construction. The Curado 150 M is great for close-in fishing like skipping docks and open water fishing where long casts are needed to cover water efficiently. Davis paired the reel with the Curado 72MH rod featuring Hi-Power X construction. The combo offers plenty of sensitivity, backbone, and tip action needed to work baits properly, get strong hooksets, and keep fish out of cover during a fight.

“When skipping docks, I used the Curado rod because it has the power to get them out,” said Davis. “It has the perfect action to work the bait properly but not move it much in the water column and has plenty of backbone to get great hooksets. This setup was key to winning the tournament.”

The post Shimano Pro Alex Davis Wins Big at NPFL Event at Lay Lake appeared first on OutdoorHub.

The KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie was my shirt of choice this turkey season because it’s lightweight, breathable, and reduces the amount of gear I had to keep up with in the field. It has all the features I needed in a hot-weather hunting shirt, without the extra fluff, but it’s definitely not for every turkey hunter. In my KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie review, I share the benefits and drawbacks that I discovered while wearing it in the woods this spring.

Specs & Materials

• • Fitted hood with visor
  • Built-in neck gaiter
  • Underarm ventilation panels
  • Loose fit for air flow
  • Extended sleeve and cuff length for coverage
  • Zippered chest pocket
  • Shaped cuff with thumbholes
  • Raglan sleeve
  • Strategic seam placement for comfort and durability
  • Flatlock seams for added comfort
  • Fit: base layer next-to-skin, relaxed
  • Body: 100% Polyester knit- 140 g/m²
  • Neck gaiter: 92% Polyester / 8% Spandex- 135 g/m²
  • Underarm: 100% Polyester eyelet
  • Anti-odor treatment
  • UPF 40+
  • Quick-dry, wicking
  • Cool-Touch fabric
  • YKK zipper
  • Weight: 10.5 oz
  • Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL

• Colors: Valo camo, Verde camo, Vias camo, Ash, Black, Bone, Khaki, Stone, or Talus

• MSRP: $100

Fit & Comfort

The KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie has a loose, relaxed fit, ideal for a base layer. I had zero issues wearing it next to my skin all day long, no chaffing at all, despite sweating on some hunts.  The thumb loops kept my sleeves in place and covered my hands when I forgot my gloves. I love the built-in neck gaiter; it stays in place and covers my face, and I don’t have to remember it in the morning.

Rating:  9 / 10

Breathability & Moisture Management

The underarm ventilation panels helped prevent oversweating, but I still sweat while charging through the woods to set up on a gobbler when the temps rose above 75 degrees. However, the Cool-Touch fabric kept me relatively cool in the shade and quickly wicked the moisture away from my skin. I never felt like I was baking in the sun, and the fitted hood and visor didn’t interfere with my hat or my vision while keeping me cool.

Rating: 9 / 10

Warmth & Versatility

On the cooler mornings (in the 50s), I often wished I had worn a jacket after sitting for a while. I was plenty warm while walking, but when a cool wind would start blowing, I started to get cold, until a distant gobble got my adrenaline pumping. I would wear the Gila PRO LS Hoodie while running errands, doing yardwork, or while fishing, but my wife doesn’t like me wearing it out and about with her because it’s camo (I don’t think she’d mind it if it were a solid color).

Rating:  7 / 10

Durability & Construction

I initially thought this shirt would get torn to shreds when I stumbled into the inevitable briar patch. But after busting through several briar patches and pokey tree limbs in one hunt that ripped apart my hunting partner’s shirt, the Gila PRO LS didn’t have a hole or single loose thread. The Cool-Touch fabric keeps you cool and is remarkably durable. I wouldn’t go running through barbed-wire fences in it, but I’m definitely not afraid to cross them now.

Rating: 8 / 10

Odor Control & UV Protection

I was incredibly thankful for the anti-odor treatment on one of my turkey trips this season because we were off-grid with little water (only what we brought to drink). So, I didn’t shower for a few days, and I could smell myself (despite putting extra deodorant on) the moment I took off the Gila PRO LS. However, while wearing it, the odor was tolerable. Once I got home and washed it, it smelled like a freshly washed shirt. The UPF 40 sun protection is also legit. I didn’t get sunburnt at all, despite sitting in the sun and shade intermittently for several hours a day.

Rating: 8 / 10

Style & Everyday Use

I’m a fan of wearing the long-sleeve lightweight hoodies all summer long, no matter what I’m doing, and I wouldn’t hesitate to wear this one to grab something to eat or pick up groceries if it were a solid color. But my wife prefers that I don’t wear too much camo in public, so I primarily wear this while hunting (It’ll be my go-to shirt for early-season deer hunting) and fishing.

Rating: 8  / 10

Value & Competition

I think $100 is a bit much for a lightweight sun hoodie, but I know other premium-level gear companies charge that or more for a shirt with similar features. Plus, when you factor in the designing process and the fact that I don’t have to buy a neck gaiter or gloves, it helps ease the sticker price shock.

Rating: 7 / 10

Overall Rating: KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie Review

Even though I think it’s a tad pricey, the KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie is still a premium hunting shirt. It kept me cool on warm days, protected me from the sun, and kept me less stinky while turkey hunting. I wouldn’t recommend it to new hunters, but serious hunters looking to upgrade their clothing will benefit most from this shirt. If you hunt in Oklahoma, you’ll see me wearing the Gila PRO LS Hoodie all spring, summer, and until it gets too chilly to wear for early-season deer hunting.

Rating: 8 / 10

The post Honest Opinion After Wearing the KUIU Gila PRO LS Hoodie While Chasing Oklahoma Turkeys: OHUB Review appeared first on OutdoorHub.

ODFW is suspending trout and bass limits at Thief Valley, Pilcher Creek, and Wolf Creek reservoirs before they go dry this summer

If you fish in eastern Oregon, mark June 1 on your calendar. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is suspending all size and bag limits for rainbow trout and bass at three Union County reservoirs. The change runs from June 1 through September 30. After that, the water will likely be gone.

The three reservoirs are Thief Valley Reservoir, east of North Powder, and Pilcher Creek and Wolf Creek reservoirs, west of North Powder. All three were built to store irrigation water. All three are running low after a dry spring.

The Fish Are Going to Die Anyway

Here is the situation. As water levels fall in these reservoirs, fish get trapped in shrinking, isolated pools. Warm temperatures and murky water do the rest. The trout and bass that survive into late summer will not make it out alive.

ODFW is trying to avoid wasting those fish. By lifting the limits now, the agency gives anglers a shot at cleaning out the reservoirs before conditions worsen.

“With the reservoirs expected to drop so quickly this summer, modifying the fishery now gives people the best chance to make use of these fish before conditions deteriorate,” said Tyler Hoyt, ODFW Assistant District Fish Biologist in La Grande. “While it’s always disappointing to see reservoirs go dry, allowing additional harvest ensures that these fish are used.”

In late April, Wolf Creek Reservoir was sitting at just 21% of its capacity. Pilcher Creek was at about 55%. Both are expected to drop fast as summer heat arrives and irrigation demand increases.

What the Rule Change Actually Allows

During the June 1 through September 30 window, anglers fishing these three reservoirs can:

• Keep any number of rainbow trout or bass, with no daily or possession limits
• Keep fish of any size, with no minimum size requirement
• Use dip nets or their bare hands to catch fish
• Use an unlimited number of rods if they hold a two-rod validation

Standard fishing licenses still apply. The special rules are specific to these three reservoirs and do not affect other nearby waters.

First Time for Two of the Three Reservoirs

ODFW has done this before at Thief Valley Reservoir. Drought conditions there in past years triggered similar emergency limit suspensions. But this is the first time in recent history that Pilcher Creek and Wolf Creek reservoirs have received the same treatment.

That tells you something about how dry this year has been. Two reservoirs that have never needed emergency rules before are now in bad enough shape that ODFW had to act.

Watch for Algae

ODFW is also reminding anglers that low water and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for blue-green algae blooms. These blooms can be toxic to people and pets. Do not drink the water. Keep dogs out of it. If the water looks green or smells foul, treat it as potentially hazardous.

Blue-green algae is not a reason to skip the fishing, but it is a reason to be careful on shore and around the water’s edge.

Make the Most of It While You Can

The window is four months, but the best fishing will likely come early, before the water gets too warm and fish become stressed. June and early July are your best bets. By August, conditions at Wolf Creek in particular could get grim fast.

If you have been looking for an easy catch, this is about as good as it gets in Oregon. No limits, no size rules, and a biologist telling you the fish need to be caught. Get out there before the water does.

Sources

• https://bakercityherald.com/2026/05/28/state-lifts-fishing-limits-for-thief-valley-pilcher-creek-wolf-creek-reservoirs-starting-june-1/

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Federal lawmakers are pushing a major new effort to slow the spread of aquatic invasive species across U.S. waterways with a bipartisan bill backed by fishing and boating organizations nationwide.

U.S. Reps. Tim Walberg and Sarah Elfreth introduced the Aquatic Invasive Species Control and Prevention Act, legislation designed to modernize how federal and state agencies respond to invasive species threatening fisheries, boating access, and aquatic ecosystems across the country.

The bill comes as invasive species continue spreading through major waterways including the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay. Species such as quagga mussels, invasive carp, blue catfish, zebra mussels, sea lamprey, and snakehead fish have caused widespread ecological damage while also impacting local economies tied to fishing, boating, tourism, and outdoor recreation.

According to the bill’s sponsors, the legislation would improve coordination between existing federal, state, and regional invasive species programs while prioritizing prevention and rapid response efforts before infestations become more costly to manage. The proposal would also support state-led management strategies and establish grants for research and technology development focused on controlling or eradicating aquatic invasive species.

“The strength of Michigan’s economy is directly tied to the long-term health of the Great Lakes,” Walberg said in a statement. He added that the legislation would help protect fisheries and outdoor recreation economies by streamlining coordination and improving rapid response efforts.

Elfreth pointed to invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay, invasive carp in the Great Lakes, and snakehead fish in North Carolina as examples of how widespread the problem has become.

“It’s clear that no community or district, Democrat and Republican alike,  is safe from the ecological and economic harms caused by invasive species,” Elfreth said.

The legislation has already received support from 18 national fishing and boating organizations, including the American Sportfishing Association, National Marine Manufacturers Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and BoatU.S..

American Sportfishing Association President Glenn Hughes called the proposal “the most comprehensive modernization of federal aquatic invasive species policy in decades.”

Industry groups say invasive species continue damaging fisheries, limiting boating access, clogging infrastructure, and reducing sportfishing opportunities nationwide. Supporters argue stronger national coordination will become even more important as shipping activity, warming water temperatures, and interconnected waterways continue helping invasive species spread into new areas.

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