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

Latest Episodes:

TSV Roundup Week of June 17th, 2024 Jun 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred Bird covers this week’s outdoor news including controversial red snapper management decision in the Gulf States, a big win on hunting with suppressors in Vermont, merchant category coding legislation in New York, funding for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and debates over technology’s role in wildlife conservation. The episode highlights the importance of state management in red snapper seasons, the permanent authorization of hunting with suppressors in Vermont, concerns about privacy in New York's financial institutions, the need for funding for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and the role of technology in wildlife management as discussed by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Takeaways

NOAA’s announcement of a single day South Atlantic red snapper season highlights the importance of state management for effective red snapper seasons. Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Management
Hunting with suppressors is now authorized for all sportsmen, resident and nonresident, in Vermont after a 12-year battle. Firearm Suppressors
New York's merchant category coding legislation continues to raise concerns about privacy.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders to call a special session to fund the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Technology played a central role in the recent Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies meeting. Technology and the Fair Chase Ethic

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TSV Roundup Week of June 10th, 2024 Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Title: TSV Roundup Week of June 10th, 2024

Narrative: In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, our host Fred Bird covers all the news fit to print related to conservation and legislation in the sporting community. The main themes include a CSF priority conservation funding protection, the expansion of hunter harassment prohibition, the authorization of dogs to retrieve wounded deer in Louisiana, the failure of a sin tax bill in Connecticut, the need for better angler data collection in the Gulf States, the failure of a bill to ban hunting contests in Illinois, and a feel-good story about the California Sportsmen's Caucus trap shoot.

Takeaways

CSF priority conservation funding protection in Louisiana is a significant win for hunters and anglers, as it ensures reimbursement for lost revenue from free and discounted licenses. Reimbursement to Fish and Wildlife Agencies for Free and Discounted Licenses – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
Expanding the prohibition against hunter harassment in Louisiana provides additional protection for hunters, anglers, and trappers on state-managed lands and waters.
The authorization of dogs to retrieve wounded deer in Louisiana allows hunters to recover mortally wounded deer and prevent spoilage. Use of Tracking Dogs to Recover Game – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
The failure of a sin tax bill in Connecticut is a victory for law-abiding citizens who would have been burdened with additional taxes on firearms and ammunition.
Improving angler data collection in the Gulf States is crucial for accurate estimates of angler effort and harvest, which can impact fishing seasons and eco-tourism.
The failure of a bill to ban hunting contests in Illinois means that such contests can continue, but it may be a topic worth addressing proactively in the future. Predator Hunting/Tournament Bans – Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
The California Sportsmen's Caucus trap shoot is a positive event that brings together sportsmen and legislators to celebrate hunting and shooting traditions.

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Episode 22 - Ben O’Brien || The American System Of Conservation Funding Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

Fred catches up with Ben O’Brien of Woodside Media for this week’s feature episode of the Sportsmen’s Voice podcast. After covering the pair’s turkey hunting exploits this year, the conversation dives deep into the fascinating history of the American system of conservation funding, the significance of storytelling and education in conservation, and the impact of hunting on society. The discussion delves into the history of conservation funding, the importance of understanding and advocating for these systems, and the need for continuous updates and improvements. Ben gives a masterclass in the historical context of conservation funding through Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson, the challenges of bipartisan cooperation, and the potential impact of the backpack tax on wildlife restoration.

Fred and Ben also explore the decline in hunting and fishing participation, the role of the outdoor recreation economy, and the need to bridge the gap between hunting and outdoor enthusiasts. The conversation delves into the importance of wildlife conservation, the role of hunters and anglers in wildlife management, the need for open dialogue and understanding between different conservation perspectives, and the launch of Ben’s new venture, Woodside Media which is focused on storytelling and marketing for conservation organizations.

Takeaways

It is critically important for sportsmen and women to understand and advocate for the American System of Conservation Funding.
Ben shares the historical context of conservation funding and the importance in understanding the current challenges and opportunities in wildlife restoration.
Bipartisan cooperation is essential for the effective implementation of conservation funding.
The backpack tax is a potential solution that would require support from both the sporting community and other outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
The decline in hunting and fishing participation, along with the rise of the outdoor recreation economy, highlights the need to bridge the gap between these two groups and find common ground in protecting wild spaces.
Ben explores the idea and history around the “backpack tax” and how additional funding would contribute to wildlife and habitat management and restoration. The challenges associated with such a model raises important questions.

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TSV Roundup Week of June 3rd, 2024 Jun 05, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred is joined by Kaleigh Leager and Delaware Sportsmen’s Caucus Co-Chair, Representative Jeff Spiegelman to talk about the recent legislation on Sunday hunting in Delaware, the impact on wildlife, conservation, and the collaboration between CSF, the Sportsmen's Caucus, and in-state partners. It also highlights the success stories of wild turkey repopulation and the effectiveness of the NASC network. Fred then covers all the news that’s fit to print for sportsmen across the nation, including updates on wildlife crossings in Wyoming, trout stream buffer legislation in North Carolina, and the legislative session in Missouri. The episode also highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the role of sportsmen and women in preserving outdoor heritage.

Takeaways

Sunday hunting is a crucial aspect of access for working class sportsmen.
Wildlife crossings play a crucial role in reducing wildlife vehicle collisions and preserving wildlife habitats, with significant investment in them coming to Wyoming.
Trout stream buffer legislation in North Carolina aims to protect trout streams and improve water quality for aquatic organisms.
The legislative session in Missouri demonstrates the importance of knowledge and engagement in conservation efforts.
The role of sportsmen and women is vital in preserving outdoor heritage and supporting wildlife conservation initiatives.

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TSV Roundup Week of May 27th, 2024 May 30, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred covers stories including the Duck Stamp Modernization Act, mandatory fish harvest reporting in North Carolina, Farm Bill reauthorization updates, Kansas Fish and Wildlife Commission restructuring, and several pro sportsmen's bills in Alaska. The conversation also delves into the Atlantic States sportsmen's caucuses' thoughts on the whale rule, the Delaware Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus, and the Alaska session recap.

Takeaways

The Duck Stamp Modernization Act is a top priority for CSF, allowing hunters to have an electronic duck stamp on their smartphone for the entirety of the hunting season.
North Carolina is implementing mandatory fish harvest reporting for certain fish species including Striped Bass and Weakfish, with recommendations for a simple smartphone app to ensure accurate and convenient reporting.
The Farm Bill reauthorization includes conservation priorities.
The Kansas Commission restructuring bill changes the appointment process for Wildlife and Parks Commissioners.
The Atlantic States sportsman's caucuses express concerns about the controversial whale rule.
Alaska passed several pro sportsman's bills for trappers and individuals with physical disabilities.
The involvement of state caucuses and legislative bodies is crucial in shaping conservation policies and regulations.
The Sportsman's Voice Roundup provides valuable insights into the legislative landscape for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists.

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Episode 21 - Wrapping Up the Congressional Sporting Clays Event May 24, 2024

Show notes

Fred catches up with legislators and esteemed guests from partner organizations such as Retay Shotguns, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Boone and Crockett Club and more during the Congressional Sporting Clays event thrown by the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation this week, held in Prince George's County. Despite a bit of wet weather, the event was a tremendous success, bringing together CSC caucus co-chairs, industry partners, and leadership. In this episode, you'll hear from influential leaders such as Congressmen Westerman, Graves, and Panetta, as well as key figures from NSSF, Boone and Crockett, and Retay. Tune in to enjoy the sounds and insights from this premier shooting event, and get a sense of the camaraderie and competitive spirit that define the Congressional Sportsman's Foundation. Whether you were able to attend or are catching up from afar, this episode offers a fantastic wrap-up of the event.

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TSV Roundup Week of May 20th, 2024 May 23, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup lead story, Fred and CSF Senior Director of Fisheries Policy Chris Horton discuss the recent Congressional Fishing Tournament and the importance of fisheries conservation and hosting an event building relationships and promoting passion for hunting and fishing on the Hill. The conversation also touches on the challenges of fisheries management and the need for accurate data. The use of electronic reporting and AI technology is seen as a potential solution to improve data collection and real-time monitoring. The idea of mandating reporting for recreational anglers is also discussed as a way to better manage fisheries. Fred Bird then moves on to discuss various news updates related to hunting and conservation. He covers topics including chronic wasting disease in California, firearm purchaser's privacy in New Hampshire, the Congressional Clay's event, land conservation legislation in North Carolina, and fur bear hunting tournaments in Illinois.

Takeaways

The Congressional Fishing Tournament is more about building relationships and promoting the passion for hunting and fishing.
Electronic reporting and AI technology have the potential to improve data collection and real-time monitoring.
Mandating reporting for recreational anglers could help better manage fisheries.
The conversation highlights the economic impact of fishing and the need for conservation funding.
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been detected in California, which is concerning for deer and elk populations and hunters.
New Hampshire has passed a bill to protect the privacy of firearm purchasers, while New York is moving in the opposite direction with merchant coding.
The Congressional Clay's event was a successful and enjoyable competition among legislators and partners of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation (CSF).
North Carolina is considering legislation to offer tax credits to landowners who donate property for conservation purposes.
Illinois is facing a potential ban on fur bearer hunting tournaments, but CSF is working to oppose the passage of this legislation.

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TSV Roundup Week of May 13th, 2024 May 15, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup Fred is bringing you breaking news out of Vermont on SB 258, a unanimous passage on the Hill of the ACE Reauthorization Act - a major CSF priority - Oregon’s new director of Fish and Wildlife, Pennsylania’s proposal to offer resident-priced hunting and fishing licenses to nonresident college students, Louisiana legislation designed to protect conservation funding, applications for elk, black bears and more in Arkansas and Missouri and all the rest of the news that is fit to print (or hear!) in this week’s TSV Roundup!

Takeaways

Vermont SB 258, which sought to potentially pack Vermont’s Fish and Wildlife Board with anti hunting activists, has been defeated.
Pennsylvania to offer resident-priced hunting and fishing licenses to nonresident college students.
Congress has acted on The ACE Reauthorization Act, a major policy priority for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation.
Louisiana is poised to pass legislation designed to protect conservation funding.
Oregon has a new Fish and Wildlife Director.
PUBLIC LAND tags are available in Arkansas and Missouri for Elk, Black Bear and MORE!

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Episode 20 - Jules McQueen & Jana Waller | From Turkey to Bears: Hunting Adventures and Women Empowerment May 09, 2024

Show notes

Fred is joined by Jana Waller of Skullbound TV Fame and Jules McQueen, President of Carbon TV, to discuss their experiences with hunting (and little bit about their love for Game of Thrones!) After catching up about their plans for turkey hunting and bear hunting in the spring, the conversation turns to a wide range of topics such as the challenges of being a non-resident hunter, the excitement of having multiple species tags, and the topic of women in the outdoors and the challenges they face, including criticism and attacks from both men and women. The host and guests discuss the importance of representation and the positive impact that mothers' involvement in outdoor activities can have on their children. The trio also touches on the need for better communication and storytelling to convey the benefits of hunting and outdoor pursuits to legislators and the general public. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of respectful and honest dialogue to bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters. They emphasize the need to make connections and explain the deeper meaning behind hunting and conservation. They also highlight the significance of voting and getting involved in conservation organizations to protect hunting rights and wildlife. The conversation ends with a call to normalize conversations about hunting and to support and encourage women in the outdoors.

Takeaways

Women in the outdoors often face criticism and attacks, both from men and other women, highlighting the importance of having a network of friends and connections in the hunting community
Mothers' involvement in outdoor activities can have a positive influence on their children's interest in hunting and other outdoor pursuits.
Effective communication and storytelling are crucial in conveying the benefits of hunting and outdoor activities to legislators and the general public. Respectful and honest dialogue is crucial to bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters.
Making connections and explaining the deeper meaning behind hunting and conservation can help others understand and support the hunting community.
Voting and getting involved in conservation organizations are important ways to protect both hunting and wildlife.
Normalizing conversations about hunting and supporting women in the outdoors are essential for the growth and inclusivity of the hunting community.

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TSV Roundup Week of May 6th, 2024 May 08, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup Fred is joined by Jake Gould, for our lead story out of Kansas, covering the commission restructuring happening in the Bluegrass State The two talk about a bill that would rearrange how the commissioners of the Kansas Game and Parks Commission are appointed. They highlight the concern of partisan politics influencing wildlife management decisions and the importance of protecting the rights to hunt and fish. They also mention recent changes that upset some people, such as reducing non-resident deer tags and setting the non-resident turkey tag system to a lottery system. Fred also reports on various legislative developments related to hunting and conservation in other states, including two pieces of legislation in Louisiana that address hunter harassment and the use of tracking dogs. Fred also talks about the upcoming special session in New Mexico, where anti-gun and anti-sportsman bills have been proposed. He then discusses the release of initial plans for the next iteration of the Farm Bill, which includes priorities for the sporting and conservation community. Lastly, Fred mentions two bills passed by the US House of Representatives that protect access for hunters and anglers and delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List.

Takeaways

Kansas is considering a bill that would change how the commissioners of the Kansas Game and Parks Commission are appointed, prompting concern that partisan politics could influence wildlife management decisions.
Recent changes, such as reducing non-resident deer tags and setting the non-resident turkey tag system to a lottery system, have upset some people in Kansas.
Louisiana’s House of Representatives has passed legislation to address hunter harassment and allow the use of tracking dogs for retrieving wounded deer.
New Mexico will convene a special session in July where anti-gun and anti-sportsman bills are being considered.
The House and Senate have released initial plans for the next Farm Bill, which include priorities for the sporting conservation community.
The US House has passed two bills that protect access for hunters and anglers and delist the gray wolf from the Threatened and Endangered Species List.

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