Women who are interested in taking up hunting and fishing should sign up for a special upcoming weekend workshop sponsored by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

This women’s-only event will be held June 22-24 at the Jim Olterman/Lone Cone State Wildlife Area in Dolores County.

“This is a great event for women who are curious about hunting and fishing but have never had a chance to give them a try,” said Kelly Crane, district wildlife manager in the Ouray area. “No experience is necessary and we have a lot of fun.”

At this workshop women will learn the fundamentals of archery, fly fishing and shotgun shooting. Participants will also learn about the basics of wildlife biology and wildlife management. Expert instruction will be provided by Parks and Wildlife staff.

The weekend is especially designed for novices. All equipment and ammunition will be provided. Participants can bring their own fishing rods, bows and shotguns. Those bringing guns must provide their own ammunition.

Participants age 16 and older must have a current Colorado fishing license.

Food will be provided; but those with specific dietary requirements should bring their own.

A cabin and camping are available on site. Participants must bring their own sleeping bags and can bring their own tents if they wish.

The registration deadline is June 4, but call early as this event usually fills up quickly. The workshop is limited to 15 women, ages 14 and older. A $40 refundable deposit is required.

The event will start at 5 p.m., June 22, and conclude at noon on June 24. The state wildlife area is located 25 miles south of Norwood.

To register, or for more information, contact Dawn Bresett at the Parks and Wildlife office in Montrose at 970-252-6000, or by e-mail, dawn.bresett@state.co.us.

To learn more about hunting and fishing in Colorado, see: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Pages/Home.aspx

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Women’s Outdoor Skills Workshop to be Held in Montrose, Colorado

If House Bill 5334 is passed into law, Michigan hunters and anglers could purchase individual lifetime licenses for hunting and fishing several different types of species. The proposed lifetime licenses include firearm deer, archery deer, small game, restricted fishing, and all-species fishing. Individual lifetime license fees range from $220 to $285. An all-encompassing lifetime license for small game, firearm and archery deer, all-species fishing, bear, waterfowl, and resident fur harvester would sell for $1,025.

The bill was introduced at the beginning of the year by Representative Richard LeBlanc, D-Westland. At the time of introduction, there was no known opposition or support from outdoor groups. LeBlanc said the bill was inspired by the conversations he had with hunters who possessed lifetime licenses purchased in the short time frame that Michigan offered them (in 1989 and 1990).

Many hunters liked the lifetime licenses and would like to purchase one if it was an option, but Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials and the Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) worry they would negatively impact federal conservation funding and also complicate wildlife management efforts.

Legislative Affairs Manager for MUCC Kent Wood said the group hasn’t yet decided on an official position on LeBlanc’s legislation. In theory, MUCC is supportive of multi-year, comprehensive licenses, but federal funding uncertainties hinder their support.

In an interview with Outdoor News, DNR Wildlife Chief Russ Mason said the licenses would increase revenue for the DNR in the short term, but “there are issues with obtaining federal (funding) match in the out years.”

But DNR Chief Budget Officer Sharon Schafer counters that notion, saying that federal funding wouldn’t be affected by the legislation. The 3,135 hunters and anglers who purchased a lifetime license when it was available in 1989 are counted each year toward the total number of Michigan license buyers whose revenue generated is matched by federal funds.

Schafer said the problem lies in insufficient amounts of revenue generated from the sale of these licenses. A child who obtains a lifetime all-encompassing license in his/her youth would contribute a total of $1,025 for decades of hunting and fishing licenses. “You have to spread it out over their lifetime,” Schafer said.

For example, say an 18 year old buys an all encompassing license and he uses it for the next 50 years. He will end up having paid only $20.50 per year to hunt any game he likes with any weapon, fish any species and so on. He comes out on top, while wildlife management funds end up depleted.

“Lifetime licenses sound like a good idea, but they have negative financial consequences and management consequences, especially for highly sought-after species,” Wildlife Chief Mason said.

When new regulations are developed, for example, if bears become listed as threatened or endangered, “a lifetime license holder would come up and say ‘When I bought this, I could hunt bear wherever I wanted, every year,’” Mason said.

Rep. LeBlanc admits lifetime licenses could have funding implications, but that not enough hunters or anglers would buy a lifetime license to negatively impact the DNR’s budget.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses Up for Consideration in Michigan

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Otis Technology, manufacturers of the world’s most advanced gun cleaning systems. This renewal marks the extension of a four year partnership between Otis and North America’s premier hunting, fishing and conservation organization for AFL-CIO Union members and their families.

“The USA is particularly proud of our alignment with Otis’ 100% U.S. made products,” said USA Deputy Director Mike d’Oliveira. “To be able to bring a U.S. made product of this caliber directly to our members, is a win, win. Not only does it help promote the importance of proper gun maintenance but it demonstrates the USA’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing.”

Showcased in a variety of traditional media formats available through the USA, Otis Technology will be featured during the USA’s popular Sporting Clays and Trap Shoot Tour, which will travel to nearly 30 markets throughout North America in 2012.

Participants will have the opportunity to win USA branded Elite and Hardcore Hunter cleaning systems and get a firsthand feel for just how valuable a reliable gun cleaning system can be.

The USA Shoot Tour staff will also utilize a full array of Otis cleaning supplies and lubricants to maintain the fleet’s loaner guns-offering new shooters the opportunity to experience optimal performing firearms.

The USA will also be integrating Otis into a series of e-based promotions and activities designed to enhance the relationship between the brand and the USA’s membership.

“Partnering with the USA is a natural fit for Otis Technology. Not only does the USA rally for our great industry and preserving our outdoor heritage, but their support of U.S. made products like Otis is unmatched,” said Otis Senior Corporate Public Relations Coordinator, Cara Peebles. “Otis looks forward to having our products included at Union Sportsmen’s Alliance events for the fourth year and being part of the growing USA membership base and organization.”

The invaluable assistance of partners like Otis Technology and other great brands supports the USA’s goal of uniting the millions of active and retired labor union members, who hunt, fish, shoot and recreate outdoors into one of the largest sportsmen-based conservation organizations in the country.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Union Sportsmen’s Alliance and Otis Renew Partnership

The barracuda is one of the fastest fish in the sea. Fortunately for Kevin Faver, producer of television’s "Tales from the Outdoors," he is a little faster.

The longtime angler had a close call with a 40-pound barracuda Sunday while fishing off the coast of St. Augustine, Fla. Faver was reeling in the fish when it rocketed from the water and onto his boat. The flying fish was inches from clocking Faver in the head. 

Faver told Local 10.com, "When a barracuda gets hooked, they jump. See it hundreds of times. Never had one jump in my boat, especially one this big.  I can't believe it happened and don't want it to ever happen again."  Faver added that getting footage of such an event was even more spectacular.  "I've been doing TV shows 12 years now, and to have that happen when rolling is almost impossible.  To have that on video is unbelievable. It's skyrocketing at me and it's the fish I have on my line and obvious first reaction is get out of the way."

The fish was returned to the sea unharmed.

Ever had a call this close while fishing?  Comment below!

The 2012 Outdoor Adventure Dream Giveaway sweepstakes is a nationwide drawing sponsored by the WorldCause Foundation. By making a tax-deductible donation and entering to win one of three incredible prize packages, entrants can financially help the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance protect their rights to hunt, fish and trap. This Giveaway ends May 31, 2012. Act now!

Grand Prize winner receives a truck, boat and an off-road vehicle!

The winner of the 2012 Outdoor Adventure Dream Giveaway grand-prize package will enjoy endless fun in the great outdoors. Some of the best outdoor vehicles on the market today are featured in this grand prize package, including: a 2011 Ram 2500 Outdoorsman Mega-Cab 4×4 diesel truck with a pop-up, roof-top camper; a 21-foot Ranger Reata boat with a 225-horsepower Evinrude outboard motor sitting atop a custom trailer; and a Can-Am Commander 1000XT side-by-side, 4×4 off-road vehicle. Also included in this prize package is a id=”mce_marker”0,000 prepaid gas card and $30,000 cash to help pay the prize taxes!

2nd Prize winner enjoys a five-day elk hunt with firearm plus spending cash!

The second-place Dream Getaway prize package includes: a five-day elk hunt in northern Utah’s pristine Wasatch Mountains for the winner-and a guest observer. The winner and a guest will be joined by Bill Miller, former Executive Director of the North American Hunting Club and expert big-game hunter. Miller has hunted and/or shot competitively in more than 40 states and 8 Canadian Provinces, plus South America, Europe and Africa. The winner of this second place prize will also receive a Ruger M77 Hawkeye African .375-Ruger caliber rifle with a satin blued finish complete with a riflescope courtesy of Leupold. The winner will also receive id=”mce_marker”,000 cash! Accommodations for this Dream Getaway include: transportation to and from Utah, roundtrip airport transportation, top-shelf lodging, necessary licenses, and food.

3rd Prize winner enjoys a 4-day fishing trip in Costa Rica plus spending cash!

The winner of the third-place Dream Getaway prize package will be traveling with a friend to Crocodile Bay Resort for a four-day fishing adventure. The Crocodile Bay Resort, located on 44 acres of tropical gardens in Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica, has 40 air-conditioned rooms overlooking the surrounding gardens, a swimming pool with a swim-up bar, an elevated hot tub, and a 5,000-square-foot luxury spa. The winner and a guest will board a 33-foot Strike Yacht Tower Boat and motor out into the Gulf where they will enjoy some of the best inshore and offshore fishing available anywhere. Those anglers will be joined by celebrity-guide Steve Pennaz, former head of the half million-member North American Fishing Club and host of the North American Fisherman on NBC Sports Network. Accommodations for this Getaway include: transportation to and from Costa Rica, roundtrip airport transportation, necessary licenses, and food. This prize also includes some top quality fishing gear plus id=”mce_marker”,000 CASH!

Entries to the drawing and official rules can be obtained by calling 855-459-6400 toll-free or by visiting www.outdoorgiveaway.com. By using the Promo Code UA1412, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance receives a portion of the proceeds of your donation.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Act Now on 2012 Outdoor Adventure Dream Giveaway

Once again renewing their sponsorship, Realtree will support the National Hunting and Fishing Day. This year, NHFD will take place on September 22, 2012.

The sponsorship by Realtree helps support the Wonders of Wildlife museum—the official home of National Hunting and Fishing Day. The Springfield, Mo., facility oversees educational initiatives to help the American public understand the indelible relationship between hunting, angling, healthy habitat, and wildlife and fisheries conservation.

“NHF Day is built for sportsmen for their continued support of conservation,” said Misty Mitchell of Wonders of Wildlife. “People tend to forget that these activities pay the bills for conserving the wildlife resources that we all cherish. With the sponsorship from Realtree, we are better positioned to educate the people that hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors.”

Each year National Hunting and Fishing Day chooses an honorary chairperson, and this year NASCAR Sprint Cup driver/owner Tony Stewart is serving in that capacity and will deliver the message of NHF Day.

As the driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Mobil 1 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Stewart has won 12 driving championships, including three Sprint Cup Series titles, in a career spanning more than three decades.

Stewart is a champion off the racetrack as much as he is on, and has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts via his Tony Stewart Foundation, which raises funds for distribution to three specific groups – chronically ill children, drivers injured in motorsports activities, and organizations dedicated to the protection of various animal species.

“Realtree has been a great partner for years and we’re very happy to welcome them back for 2012,” said Misty Mitchell, Director of Wonders of Wildlife. “With the help of Realtree and our other sponsors, we’re reaching out to America with a message that healthy fish, wildlife and habitat depend on funding and leadership from hunters and anglers.”

In 1972, Congress formalized NHF Day to remind the public that conservation depends on funding and leadership from hunters and anglers. Every president from Richard Nixon through Barack Obama has issued official proclamations of support for the annual commemoration, now recognized as one of the most effective grassroots campaigns ever undertaken to promote traditional outdoor sports.

The growing list of sponsors for NHF Day 2011 includes Wonders of Wildlife, NSSF, Bass Pro Shops, Smith & Wesson, Sportsman’s Channel, Realtree, GunBroker.com, Yamaha, Pope and Young Club, Ducks Unlimited and the Izaak Walton League of America.

For more information about NHF Day, visit www.nhfday.org.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Realtree, National Hunting and Fishing Day Renew Partnership

The next meeting of the Sportsmen’s Constituent Group (working title at this point) will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 6-9 p.m., at the Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix.

Invitations have been sent to those individuals who indicated an interest in participating in the group after the initial (March 22) meeting and webcast. The May 8 meeting is open to the public and will also be webcast at www.azgfd.gov/webcast.

A link to the meeting agenda can be found at www.azgfd.gov/scg.

Agenda items include a brief recap of the initial meeting; a discussion of what the group should be named and how it should proceed (vision, objectives); a discussion of how it would be structured (steering committee, subcommittees?); identification of work priorities and hot topics; and a determination of future meeting dates and locations.

The initial meeting of the group was called for by action of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission earlier this year. Commissioner Kurt Davis was asked to chair an ad hoc group that would explore ways to unite constituents in working together in a positive manner on issues and challenges affecting the future of hunting, fishing and wildlife management in Arizona.

For more information, or to see a videotape of the March 22 meeting or the comments that were submitted, visit www.azgfd.gov/scg.

If you haven’t yet indicated an interest in participating in the group but wish to do so, please indicate your interest by e-mailing SCGpartners@azgfd.gov. Include your name, affiliation (if any), and e-mail address.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Next Meeting of Arizona’s Sportsmen’s Constituent Group is May 8

The price of Minnesota hunting and fishing licenses will increase in March 2013 for the first time in 12 years, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said.

On Thursday, May 3, Gov. Mark Dayton signed a House- and Senate-approved bill that, among other things, raises the cost of an annual resident fishing license from $17 to $22 and a resident deer hunting license from $26 to $30. Most resident youth hunting and fishing licenses will be $5 or free. Youth under 16 do not need a fishing or small game hunting license.
License fee increases were widely supported by hunting, fishing and conservation organizations. The last general license fee increase was approved in 2000 and implemented in 2001.

“This action was critical to maintaining the world class fishing and hunting that Minnesota enjoys,” said DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr. “I appreciate all the efforts of the organized groups and the individual hunters, anglers, trappers and others who supported new license prices. I also thank the Legislature for its bipartisan leadership and support on this important conservation initiative.”

Enacting the license fee bill maintains the solvency of the state’s Game and Fish Fund for the remainder of this biennium, which ends June 30, 2013. New revenue will begin to come into the game and fish fund in March 2013. The DNR estimates the fees will generate about $5 million in fiscal 2013 and approximately $10 million per year in following years.

“The fishing and hunting community has spoken that they are willing to pay for good conservation,” said Landwehr. “We will put these dollars to their highest and best use for game and fish management and enforcement. That means providing the results that hunters, anglers and the conservation community are asking for.”

Landwehr said specific uses of new license fee revenues will be proposed in the months ahead as the agency develops a biennial budget proposal that the governor will submit to the Legislature in January 2013.

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Minnesota Governor Signs Hunting and Fishing License Fee Increase Bill

Not many women would be comfortable with the world knowing how much she weighs. Then again, not many women can claim to have caught a carp that weighs almost as much as she does. Jo Green can — this week she smashed the world record for a carp caught by a woman by 12 pounds. She reeled in a monster 84-pound carp; a fish she admits weighs almost as much as she does! Better yet, she did so in front of her avid angler husband Mike.

The British couple was sleeping in a tent during a fishing trip in France when the alarm attached to one of their reels rang out at 4 a.m. Jo rushed to the bank to take the rod. The fight lasted 45 minutes. The fish she landed set a new record and beat her husband’s personal best by 62 pounds. 

Ouch, dude. 

After weighing and taking pictures with the carp, known locally as Brown Fish, the fish was released unharmed. Jo told the Sun of her accomplishment, “I am over the moon about it. It was a real beauty.”

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting  women interested in learning the basics of fly-fishing, shotgun shooting and archery to attend the popular Cast, Blast and Twang seminar to be held in Collbran, Saturday, May 19.

Taught by Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers and volunteers, the three-part class is designed specifically for those who have an interest in learning about these popular outdoor activities in a comfortable, women-only class.

“Some women may not have a mentor or an experienced person to teach them these skills, and this class is perfect for them,” said Education Coordinator Kathleen Tadvick.

Cast, Blast and Twang is part of Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Women Afield Program. Through workshops, clinics, seminars, and educational hunts, the program focuses on teaching the skills, ethics and traditions of hunting to novice women.

The clinic begins at 8:30 a.m. and is scheduled to conclude mid-afternoon of the same day.

For additional details, or to register for the class, please contact Kathleen Tadvick at 970-255-6181.

Space is limited and the seminar is expected to fill quickly. A $20 deposit is required to hold your space.

Who: Colorado Parks and Wildlife

What: Cast, Blast and Twang – Women-only seminar

When: Saturday, May 19, 8:30 a. m. to mid-afternoon

Where: Collbran, Colo.- Directions to event provided after registering

Contact: To register, call Kathleen Tadvick – 970-255-6181, or email, Kathleen.tadvick@state.cous

For more information about novice and youth education and seminars, please visit: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/HunterOutreach/Pages/HunterOutreach.aspx

Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs.

To learn more about Colorado’s state parks, please see: http://www.parks.state.co.us

To learn more about Colorado’s wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us

Outdoor Hub, The Outdoor Information Engine - Colorado Women are Invited to Learn Shotgun, Fly-Fishing and Archery Skills