The Sportsmen's Voice | Hunting, Fishing and Conservation Advocacy with Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation

Latest Episodes:

Episode 30 - Celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day with Bass Pro Shops Founder and Lead Outfitter Johnny Morris Sep 26, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode, Fred Bird is joined by Johnny Morris, the legendary Founder and Lead Outfitter of Bass Pro Shops, along with Jeff Crane, President and CEO of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation (CSF), to commemorate National Hunting and Fishing Day. This conversation dives deep into the significance of this special day, highlighting the vital role that hunting and fishing play in conservation efforts across the country.

Johnny Morris shares insights into the origins and evolution of National Hunting and Fishing Day, reflecting on how stories of time spent in the wilderness shape future generations of outdoor enthusiasts. The discussion emphasizes the essential contributions of sportsmen and women to conservation and the need to increase public awareness about their efforts. The episode also explores the impactful partnership between Bass Pro Shops and CSF in advocating for conservation and protecting our hunting heritage.

Listeners will gain an understanding of how National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrated at the Wonders of Wildlife Museum, a destination designed to create a fun and educational experience that promotes a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Takeaways

National Hunting and Fishing Day honors the contributions of sportsmen and women to conservation efforts. National Hunting and Fishing Day – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
Conservation acts as a unifying force, bridging divides across political lines through a shared love of the outdoors.
Mentorship is crucial for preserving hunting and fishing traditions and ensuring the future of these outdoor activities.
Partnerships between industry leaders like Bass Pro Shops and advocacy groups like the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation are vital for championing conservation and safeguarding the hunting heritage.
Educational experiences at places like the Wonders of Wildlife Museum play a significant role in fostering awareness and appreciation for the wilderness.

See more from Johnny’s team at Bass Pro Shops: https://www.basspro.com/shop/en

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TSV Roundup Week of September 16th, 2024 Sep 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Sportsman's Voice Roundup, Fred Bird covers key events and updates in the world of conservation and outdoor sports for America’s hunters, anglers, recreational shooters, and trappers. Fred highlights the recent Dingell-Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award presented to Johnny Morris, the legendary Founder and Lead Outfitter of Bass Pro Shops, the importance of bipartisan efforts in conservation through the Congressional Sportsman's Caucus, and successful black bear management stories from Oregon and Louisiana. Additionally, Fred covers initiatives like free fishing days aimed at engaging newcomers in angling and updates on waterfowl hunting seasons in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Takeaways

The Dingell-Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award: This award honors significant contributions to conservation. Johnny Morris has been recognized for his lifelong dedication to conservation efforts.
Black Bear Management: Oregon's black bear population is thriving, leading to successful management practices.
Free Fishing Days: Free fishing incentives are an effective way to introduce newcomers to angling and the outdoor sports.

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Episode 29 - The Conservation Governor: A Conversation with Chris Sununu Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

Fred Bird is joined, in true New England style after a morning of weeding and mulching, by 4-term New Hampshire Governor and Governor Sportsman’s Caucus Chairman Chris Sununu to discuss his distinguished career as ‘The Conservation Governor.’ Governor Sununu talks about his own passion for hunting and fishing, how his leadership on conservation issues has led to better outcomes across the board on everything from attracting businesses from less-friendly states to building bridges between communities, landowners, and users; and more.

See more from Governor Sununu: https://www.chrissununu.com

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TSV Roundup Week of September 9th, 2024 Sep 12, 2024

Show notes

This week's roundup lead story sees CSF Director of Federal Relations Taylor Schmitz rejoin Fred on the show to cover his recent trip to Capitol Hill to testify on behalf of 3 CSF priority bills before Congress, including the bipartisan Tax Stamp Revenue Transfer for Wildlife Recreation Act, the Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, and the BioSafe Act.

Fred then covers all the news updates related to wildlife management and hunting around the nation, including firearm preemption laws and their roles protecting opportunities for sportsmen and women, the role of nonresident hunters in conservation of the Western US, hunting dog policy and an update on the first anniversary of the Sportsman’s Voice Podcast! A big THANK YOU to all our listeners on this achievement!

Takeaways

Firearm Pre-Emption Laws: Firearm preemption laws protect the right of sportsmen to legally own firearms in their state without having to worry about overcomplicated regulations created by local, lower-level government as a barrier to entry to hunting. South Dakota legislators recently passed Senate Bill 339, strengthening their firearm preemption laws.
Non-Resident Hunters In The Great American West: From higher hunting and fishing fees to a bigger financial impact through greater reliance on local businesses from hotels to food and more, nonresident hunters make a valuable contribution to the states in which they hunt.
Hunting Dog Policy: Fred covers policy initiatives in the Southeast that sporting dog owners should be aware of, including unnecessary proposed tethering requirements in Tennessee, exemptions for sporting dogs in mandatory spay-neuter bills, and more.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

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TSV Roundup Week of September 2nd, 2024 Sep 06, 2024

Show notes

This week's roundup lead story covers recent efforts to complicate the regulatory process for setting harvest limits in Indiana, driving a further need for sportsmen in the state to be more vocal than ever. CSF’s Bob Matthews joins Fred on the Sportsmen’s Voice Podcast to discuss.

Fred then covers all the news updates related to wildlife management and hunting around the nation, including the adoption of temporary bear hunting rules in Idaho. the impact of grizzly bear management on trapping opportunities, the importance of catch and release practices in saltwater fishing and the need to maximize fish survival, an update on National Hunting and Fishing Day in Mississippi and the concerning implementation of ammunition background checks in several states.

Takeaways

Make Your Voices Heard Indiana Sportsmen: The regulatory process for setting harvest limits in Indiana has become more complex and time-consuming, leading to delays in decision-making, including a year-long formal rulemaking process and public comment, which would allow anti-hunting groups to influence the decision-making process - highlighting the need for sportsmen and women to be vocal and participate in commission meetings to ensure their voices are heard and to advocate for the health of wildlife populations.
Gumming Up The process In Indiana: Changes in emergency rulemaking authority in Indiana have raised concerns about the ability to make timely decisions for wildlife management.
Temporary Bear Hunting Rules Idaho: Temporary bear hunting rules have been adopted in Idaho to address the management of grizzly bears and protect hunting opportunities.
The Importance Of Catch And Release: Catch and release practices in saltwater fishing play a vital role in maintaining sustainable fisheries.
National Hunting and Fishing Day is an important celebration of the hunting and fishing community in Mississippi and beyond.
Background Checks For Ammunition Now: The implementation of ammunition background checks in certain states poses challenges and barriers for hunters and recreational shooters.

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Episode 28 - The Role of Forest Management in Wildlife Conservation with John Culclasure Aug 29, 2024

Show notes

Fred is joined in this episode by John Culclasure, the newly appointed Director of Forest Policy for CSF. John dives deep into the critical role of forest policy and management in conserving wildlife habitats and enhancing access for sportsmen and women across the nation. From the challenges of managing federal lands to the importance of private forestry practices, this conversation sheds light on key issues impacting hunters, anglers, and trappers.

Takeaways

Active Forest Management: Essential for creating thriving habitats for wildlife, active forest management is a cornerstone for improving hunting, fishing, and trapping opportunities.
Public Lands’ Role: Both federal and state lands are pivotal in forest management and conservation efforts, offering vast areas for sportsmen to engage in their activities.
Partnerships and Collaboration: Successful forest management requires strong partnerships between federal and state agencies, NGOs, and sportsmen's groups. These collaborations are key to overcoming challenges and achieving effective habitat improvement.
Challenges in Federal Lands Management: Funding shortfalls and bureaucratic hurdles often impede the management of federal lands, making it difficult to implement necessary conservation strategies.
Public Education and Storytelling: Educating the public on the benefits of forest management is crucial for garnering support. Crafting relatable and engaging stories can help bridge the gap between complex forestry issues and the average citizen.
Bipartisan Forestry Reform: Despite the political climate, there is a growing bipartisan movement towards federal forest management reform, driven by the shared goal of habitat improvement.
Private Forest Management: Private lands play a significant role in providing hunting access and supporting wildlife conservation, highlighting the importance of responsible forest stewardship by private landowners.
Emerging Trends: The conversation also touches on the rising significance of carbon sequestration, carbon markets, and the ongoing battle against invasive species in forestry management.

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

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TSV Roundup Week of August 26th, 2024 Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

This week's roundup lead story covers the East Coast legislative sportsmen's caucuses' efforts to address the vessel strike rule on North Atlantic Right Whales. Fred and CSF’s own Conner Barker report on the potential economic impact of the vessel strike reduction rule, as well as the safety concerns for boaters, along with the rule's inconsistency with states’ approved plans.

Fred then covers all the news updates related to wildlife management and hunting around the nation, including the No-Net-Loss policy and dove hunting seasons. The No-Net-Loss policy aims to limit the loss of access to hunting and fishing opportunities by establishing a minimum acreage of publicly owned areas open to sportsmen and women. Several states have implemented this policy, while others are still working through legislative options. And, with fall in the air, dove hunting seasons - which are the first fall hunting opportunity for many hunters - are coming along with your pumpkin spice lattes. Fred highlights that dove hunting is an approachable entry point for those interested in the outdoors and provides a recruitment opportunity for new hunters. Fred ends the roundup with a report on a successful event in California where a key water quality bill was passed.

Takeaways

The No-Net-Loss Policy aims to protect hunting and fishing opportunities by setting a minimum acreage of publicly owned areas open to sportsmen and women. No-Net-Loss – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
Dove hunting seasons are the first fall hunting opportunity and serve as an entry point for new hunters.
Water Quality In California: A successful event in California assisted in the passing of a key water quality bill, which will help ensure conservation of ocean resources and protect the future of fishing in the state.
North American Right Whales: The vessel strike reduction rule could have a significant economic impact and pose safety concerns for boaters, and is inconsistent with approved state plans. We can, and should, find better ways to protect whales while preserving fishing and boating traditions.

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TSV Roundup Week of August 19th, 2024 Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

Fred is joined by returning guest and CSF Director, Federal Relations Taylor Schmitz to cover the American Wildlife Conservation Partners Summer Meeting, the importance of funding for conservation, and the challenges of the upcoming political cycle, including the need for increased funding for conservation and the challenges ahead such as the importance of bipartisan support and changing the perception of conservation as a luxury to a necessity.

Fred then covers all the news updates related to wildlife management and hunting around the nation, including Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) detection in Washington State, the Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry joining the Governors Sportsmen’s Caucus, efforts to provide free and discounted licenses for veterans, and the management of bear populations in New Hampshire. The conversation also touches on the importance of hunting as a wildlife management tool and the need for responsible outdoor practices.

Takeaways

The American Wildlife Conservation Partners (AWCP) hosted their annual meeting in Montana, discussing their priorities and developing the Wildlife for the 21st Century document. The AWCP is working to make conservation a priority and a necessity, rather than a luxury.
CWD in Washington: Washington State has detected CWD in deer, making it the 35th state with positive detections. The state is implementing an emergency response and management plan. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
A New GSC Member: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has joined the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation’s Governor’s Sportsman’s Caucus and is actively supporting pro-sportsman legislation. Caucus Groups – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
New Hampshire Bears: New Hampshire is calling on hunters to manage bear populations that have exceeded management goals, as bear-related damages and conflicts increase in residential areas. Hunting as Preferred Management Tool – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation

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Episode 27 - Ducks Unlimited’s Adam Putnam Talks Waterfowl, Conservation Wins, and Inspiring Future Wildlife Scientists Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

Fred is joined by Adam Putnam, the CEO of Ducks Unlimited to discuss a slew of recent policy successes (and challenges!) in the sporting community, including the Duck Stamp Modernization Act and the America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act. Putnam also dives deep into the current state of waterfowl conservation, the importance of habitat improvement, the state of brood production and counting in a drought environment and the need to engage and educate the next generation of wildlife scientists and conservationists. Adam Putnam also talks about his love of hunting sea ducks and highlights the importance of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation in advancing the cause of hunting and angling.

Takeaways

Conservation Wins For American Waterfowlers: The Duck Stamp Modernization Act and the America's Conservation Enhancement Act are examples of successful bipartisan legislation for sportsmen.
Brood Production Is Increasing: Waterfowl populations have rebounded over the past 40 years, thanks to programs like the Duck Stamp Program and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act.
Habitat As The Path Forward: Habitat preservation is crucial for waterfowl and other species, and partnerships with ranchers and farmers can be beneficial for conservation efforts.
Young Waterfowl Enthusiasts Are The Future: Engaging and educating the next generation of wildlife scientists and conservationists is essential for the future of hunting and angling.

See more from Adam’s team at Ducks Unlimited: https://www.ducks.org/

Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter

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TSV Roundup Week of August 12th, 2024 Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

Fred is joined in this week's lead story for the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup by CSF’s Assistant Manager for the Southwestern States, Barry Snell. Barry and Fred talk about ‘the Alamo for sportsmen in America’ - the proposed cat hunting ban in Colorado, and how citizens from around the country can get involved and help fight the fight.

Then, dive in with Fred as he covers all the news that’s fit to print for sportsmen around the nation, including a North Atlantic Right Whale conservation update, proposed excise tax on ammo in Nebraska, New Hampshire updates electronic Duck Stamp regulations, and a successful NCSL reception held in Kentucky!

Takeaways

Get Involved To Save Cat Hunting In Colorado: Regulated hunting in Colorado is under attack. This November, Coloradans will be voting on a ballot measure that—if passed—would prohibit the hunting of mountain lions and bobcats across the state. Learn more at: https://wildlifedeservebetter.com Protecting Sportsmen’s Interests in Ballot Initiatives and Referenda – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
A New Direction For Right Whale Conservation: Explore the Manchin/Graham “Protecting Whales, Human Safety And The Economy Act”, a proposed piece of legislation that would shift the conversation on North Atlantic Right Whale conservation.
New Hampshire Duck Stamp Update: Governor’s Caucus Chair Chris Sununu signed a piece of legislation updating NH duck stamp regulations to be in line with the federal government. Electronic Duck Stamps – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
Proposed Excise Tax on Ammo in NE: Special session to address a proposed 5% “sin tax” on ammunition purchases in Nebraska. American System of Conservation Funding – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation