CAMO News
Welcome to the daily CAMO News, your roundup of the latest stories for outdoor enthusiasts!
Hunting
Ted Nugent blasts Michigan DNR: ‘Get the hell out of our way’ on deer hunting – mlive.com
Rock musician and avid hunter Ted Nugent has publicly criticized the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) over its deer hunting regulations, particularly the statewide ban on baiting. Nugent argues that the policies are not based on sound science regarding the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), claiming that deer naturally swap saliva through licking branches and other behaviors. He contends that the ban is driving hunters away from the sport and out of the state, negatively impacting Michigan’s hunting heritage and economy. Testifying in favor of a bill to overturn the ban, Nugent positioned himself as a voice for hunters who feel the regulations are an overreach and interfere with traditional hunting methods that, in his view, pose no real threat to the deer population’s health.
Hunters And Others Angry About Being Locked Out Of Popular Snowy Range Road
Hunters and other recreational users are expressing frustration over being locked out of—and in some cases, locked inside—the popular Boswell Road in Wyoming’s Snowy Range. The issue stems from a jurisdictional dispute, with both the U.S. Forest Service and Albany County denying official control over the road. This ambiguity has led some private landowners to install locked gates, creating access problems. One elk hunter recounted a harrowing experience of being trapped by a locked gate during a blizzard, forcing a dangerous detour. While landowners cite liability concerns due to the unclear ownership, public users argue that the road is essential for accessing the national forest and that officials need to resolve the dispute and ensure public access is maintained for all.
Hunting opportunities come from giving not taking | | victoriaadvocate.com
This opinion piece from the Wild Sheep Foundation and its Montana chapter advocates for a mindset of giving back to improve hunting opportunities. The original article could not be accessed, but the central message urges hunters to actively participate in conservation efforts. The authors argue that the future of hunting, particularly for species like wild sheep, depends on the community’s willingness to contribute to wildlife management and habitat preservation. Rather than simply taking from the resource, hunters are called upon to become stewards of the land and wildlife. This approach ensures that populations remain healthy and that hunting opportunities are sustained for future generations, highlighting a philosophy of proactive conservation as the key to a thriving hunting culture.
A Disturbing Drop in Support for Hunting | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Hunter
A recent study has revealed a concerning trend for the hunting community: public support for legal hunting has dropped by five percent since 2021, from approximately 81% to 76%. The research, commissioned by the Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation, indicates that this decline is partly fueled by public misinformation regarding hunting’s role in wildlife conservation. A significant portion of survey respondents incorrectly believe that hunting endangers wildlife populations. The study also found that photos of hunters posing with harvested animals, even when respectfully presented, were met with negative reactions, pointing to a cultural disconnect from the realities of the food chain. The decline was noted even among traditionally supportive demographics, signaling a critical need for the hunting community to improve its public outreach and education efforts.
Fish, Wildlife and Parks Biennial Hunting Season Regulations meeting continued from last week
Montana’s Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) is currently in the process of setting the state’s 2026 hunting regulations, with recent meetings covering several proposed changes. For Region 3, discussions include modifying the general elk license to an either-sex opportunity in certain districts to increase hunter opportunity and simplify enforcement. Another key proposal aims to manage white-tailed deer populations and mitigate CWD risk by extending season lengths. Furthermore, FWP is considering setting regional quotas for the 900-series archery antelope license, as hunter pressure and harvest rates are not evenly distributed across the state. These meetings allow biologists to present data-driven proposals to adjust hunting seasons and rules to better manage wildlife resources based on current population dynamics and conservation needs.
Federal judge shuts down southern Illinois hunting club for baiting ducks – Belleville News-Democrat
A federal judge has ordered the Burns Hunting Club in Williamson County, Illinois, to be shut down for two years after its owner pleaded guilty to charges related to illegally baiting fields for waterfowl. Hugh Thomas Burns, Jr., admitted to conspiring to use corn to attract migratory birds for the club’s paying clients, a violation of the Lacey Act. In addition to the two-year closure, Burns and his business must pay $11,000 in fines and $50,000 in restitution to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Burns was also sentenced to two years of probation, during which he is prohibited from hunting or guiding. Officials emphasized that illegal baiting undermines ethical, fair-chase hunting principles and that the ruling sends a strong message to protect the integrity of the sport.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.bnd.com/news/local/article309327240.html&ct=ga&cd=CAIyHDE5Yjc1ODkxN2JjODljYjg6Y29tOmVuOlVTOlI&usg=AOvVaw0T05axOrkWEYErtwitYkry“>Read the full story
Iconic 1,954-Acre Sinbad Ranch Provides Big Game Hunting In Western Colorado’s Unit 60
The historic Sinbad Ranch, a sprawling 1,954-acre property in western Colorado, is being highlighted as a premier destination for big game hunting. Located in Game Management Unit 60, the ranch is renowned for its trophy-class mule deer and elk populations. Its unique landscape of rugged mesas, timbered draws, and irrigated fields, combined with the only year-round water source in the valley, makes it a magnet for wildlife. The property borders the Manti-La Sal National Forest, offering hunters extended access to thousands of public acres. Formerly a hideout for Old West outlaws, the ranch combines top-tier hunting opportunities with rich frontier history, offering a unique chance to own a piece of legendary hunting ground known for producing mature, trophy-caliber animals.
Leipsic Fishing & Hunting hosts national archery tournament – Putnam County Sentinel
The Leipsic Fishing & Hunting club in Putnam County, Ohio, recently played host to the R100, a national archery tournament that draws competitors from across the country. The event features a challenging and unique course with 100 3D animal targets, providing archers with a diverse and engaging shooting experience. Hosting the R100 is a significant undertaking for a local club and highlights Leipsic Fishing & Hunting’s commitment to the shooting sports. Such events are vital for the archery community, offering a platform for skilled individuals to compete, for families to enjoy the outdoors, and for the promotion of hunting and archery skills to a wider audience. The tournament brings together hundreds of enthusiasts, reinforcing the club’s importance as a hub for local and national outdoorsmen.
‘I was flabbergasted’: How a Texas woman’s hunting boot got a second life in Minnesota
A nearly 50-year-old hunting boot has created a lasting legacy for a Texas woman who thought it was long gone. In 1996, Peggy Gentry mailed one of her well-worn Red Wing hunting boots, which she had used since 1962, to the company as a testament to its durability. Unbeknownst to her, the company was so impressed that it kept the boot and her accompanying letter in its archives and was inspired to create a marketing campaign based on the stories behind their customers’ worn footwear. Now 85, Gentry was recently contacted and learned that her boot is still preserved as a piece of company history. “I’m just flabbergasted,” she said, expressing her surprise that the simple act of sharing her appreciation for a quality product gave her old hunting boot an unexpected second life.
Hunting for shark teeth in Fernandina Beach – News4JAX
For outdoor enthusiasts looking for a different kind of hunt, Fernandina Beach in Nassau County, Florida, offers a unique prize: shark teeth. The beach near Fort Clinch State Park is a well-known hotspot for fossil hunters, drawing numerous visitors who comb the shoreline in search of these prehistoric treasures. According to local experts, the key to a successful hunt is to sift through the sand and shells near the water’s edge, as the teeth are often buried rather than resting on the surface. On a productive day, a patient hunter can find a dozen or more teeth from various shark species. This family-friendly activity provides a perfect blend of beachcombing and treasure hunting, making it the number one draw for many who visit this scenic stretch of the Florida coast.
Wildlife
Apply and Qualify for an Arkansas Urban Archery Deer Hunt
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is encouraging bowhunters to register for the 2025-26 Urban Archery Deer Hunts, designed to manage deer populations and reduce human-wildlife conflicts in nine communities. These hunts provide a valuable service to municipalities and a unique opportunity for hunters. Participants must complete the International Bowhunters Education Program, attend an orientation, and pass a proficiency test. A key component of the program is its contribution to charity; hunters are required to donate their first adult deer to Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry. Notably, deer harvested during these urban hunts do not count against a hunter’s regular seasonal limit, and there are no antler restrictions, offering an excellent chance to fill the freezer while helping the community.
Texans Asked to Help Choose New Conservation License Plate Design
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its Conservation License Plate Program by redesigning its most popular plate: the Texas Horned Lizard. The public is invited to vote on one of three new designs. For 25 years, this program has been a significant source of funding for conservation, raising over $12 million. The horned lizard plate alone has contributed more than $5.4 million, directly supporting projects that protect native nongame species and their habitats. The plates cost $30 annually, with $22 going directly to TPWD conservation projects. This initiative provides a simple yet effective way for Texans to show their support for wildlife management and ensure the state’s natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
North Carolina WRC Seeks Nominations for Small Game and Conservation Awards
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) is seeking nominations for two of its prestigious awards. The Lawrence G. Diedrick Small Game Award recognizes individuals or organizations making significant contributions to the state’s small game populations, such as quail, grouse, and rabbits, through habitat management, education, or research. Separately, the WRC is also accepting nominations for the Thomas L. Quay Wildlife Diversity Award, which honors leaders in the conservation of nongame species. These awards highlight the critical role that dedicated citizens and groups play in the broader mission of wildlife conservation across North Carolina. Nominations for the Diedrick award are due by July 9, 2025, providing an opportunity to celebrate those who work tirelessly to protect and enhance the state’s diverse wildlife resources.
Released ʻAlalā (Hawaiian Crows) Show Promising Wild Behaviors
Five critically endangered ʻAlalā, or Hawaiian crows, released on Maui last November are showing encouraging signs of adapting to the wild. After being extinct in the wild for over two decades, the captive-reared birds are now demonstrating natural behaviors such as foraging for native fruits, making territorial calls, and engaging in pair bonding. The monitoring team from the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project has even observed nest-building activities, a significant milestone in the reintroduction effort. While it may not result in chicks this year, these behaviors indicate the birds are reconnecting with their native forest habitat. This progress represents a major step forward for the ʻAlalā Working Group’s collaborative goal of returning this ecologically and culturally vital species to the wild.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/blog/2025/06/25/nr25-92/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjZhNWZhYWYyZjhkY2RlYTg6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AOvVaw1cXGU3AdmW95d4gm9EqYS2“>Read the full story
MassWildlife Acquires 308 Acres in Stockbridge, Expanding Public Access
MassWildlife has successfully purchased 308 acres of land in Stockbridge for $1.8 million, creating the new Rockdale Highlands Wildlife Management Area. This significant acquisition will protect critical habitat for rare species and opens up a vast new area for public recreation, including hiking and hunting. The purchase ensures the land will be permanently conserved and managed for wildlife while providing valuable access for outdoor enthusiasts. This move is part of a broader conservation effort in the region and demonstrates MassWildlife’s commitment to expanding public lands and protecting the state’s natural resources. The new WMA will offer excellent opportunities for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Berkshires and engage in traditional outdoor pursuits.
Arizona Upholds Science-Based Management in Hound Hunting Decision
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Commission has denied a petition that sought to ban hunting large mammals, like mountain lions and bears, with hounds. The commission’s decision reinforces its commitment to science-based wildlife management over emotional arguments. A report prepared by AZGFD biologists found the petitioners’ claims to be unfounded and highlighted the benefits of using hounds. The report noted that hunting with dogs allows for greater selectivity, which is crucial for managing populations by targeting specific animals and avoiding females or immature ones. This method is also valuable for research and public safety. The ruling is being celebrated by sportsmen’s groups as a victory for traditional hunting practices and the professional management of the state’s wildlife resources.
FWC Leads Historic Habitat Restoration on Lake Kissimmee
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is conducting its largest-ever revegetation project on Lake Kissimmee, with a $2.35 million investment over two years. The historic effort aims to restore native aquatic plants, which are crucial for water quality and provide vital habitat for fish and wildlife, including the endangered Everglade snail kite. The decline of native grasses has been attributed to exotic apple snails, hurricanes, and artificially stabilized water levels. Since 2017, the FWC has planted over a million native plants and trees. These efforts are already paying dividends, with snail kites observed using the newly planted trees. This ambitious project is set to enhance Lake Kissimmee’s reputation as a world-class fishery and a premier destination for wildlife viewing.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://myfwc.com/news/all-news/kissimmee-plants-625/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjZhNWZhYWYyZjhkY2RlYTg6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AOvVaw29M3jqSCupWpRpaVt1f6o6“>Read the full story
Portion of West Kentucky WMA to Close for Economic Development
A 545-acre portion of the “A Tracts” at West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in McCracken County will be closed to public access starting July 1, 2025. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), which owns the land, has designated the parcels for transfer to support local economic development. This land had been licensed to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for public recreational use since the 1950s. While this section will be closed, over 5,000 acres of the WMA will remain open for public hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has installed new signage to mark the updated boundaries, and updated maps are available on the agency’s website. The change highlights the dynamic nature of public land access agreements.
Fishing
Fishing’s Fine in Ohio’s Great Lake
Anglers on Lake Erie can anticipate another world-class fishing season in 2025, according to the Ohio Division of Wildlife. The walleye population is thriving, thanks to several years of well-above-average hatches. This year, fishermen can expect to catch abundant 2- to 6-year-old walleye ranging from 15 to 24 inches, with continued opportunities for trophy fish over 28 inches. The yellow perch bite is expected to be good and stable in the lake’s west zone, anchored by a large class of 4-year-old fish. However, due to lower population numbers in the central and east zones, the daily perch limit will be reduced from 30 to 20 in the east zone, effective May 1, 2025, to ensure sustainability.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://ocj.com/2025/06/fishings-fine-in-ohios-great-lake/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyHDI3Zjg0MGQ5NDBmM2FiZGI6Y29tOmVuOlVTOlI&usg=AOvVaw1rW7fbmqach4guTmoLMRWA“>Read the full story
Fishing for Shark on Chappy on the 50th
Marking the 50th anniversary of the movie “Jaws,” members of the Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters experienced a real-life shark encounter on Chappaquiddick. The day started slow, with anglers struggling to catch bluefish from the shore while watching nearby boats have better luck. The reason soon became clear. After one angler landed a sizable 14.29-pound bluefish, it was devoured by a shark just ten feet from shore upon its release. This thrilling event shifted the group’s focus, and they quickly rigged up for shark fishing. The move paid off, with several anglers, including one first-timer, successfully catching and releasing brown sharks from the beach, creating a memorable and adrenaline-filled tribute to the iconic film.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.mvtimes.com/2025/06/25/fishing-shark-chappy-50th/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyHDI3Zjg0MGQ5NDBmM2FiZGI6Y29tOmVuOlVTOlI&usg=AOvVaw0WoSUggLGCUr_PeplJK6J0“>Read the full story
Kids Fishing Derby Is Saturday
The 32nd Lew Mead Annual Memorial Kids Fishing Derby is set to take place this Saturday at Cassadaga Lakes in New York. This community-focused event encourages young anglers to connect with nature and learn about conservation. Registration begins at 7 a.m. at the NYSDEC boat launch on Dale Road, and all participating children must be accompanied by an adult. The derby provides a great opportunity for kids to learn about fishing regulations, habitat protection, and responsible angling from experienced volunteers. There are multiple age groups, from 7 and under to 14-16, with trophies and prizes awarded. The event, sponsored by the Cassadaga Lakes Association, honors the legacy of Lew Mead and aims to foster the next generation of environmental stewards.
Body of Missing Fisherman Charles Huff Found Near Fish Pass
The search for a missing fisherman in Corpus Christi, Texas, has come to a tragic end. The body of 66-year-old Charles Huff was discovered by authorities following an extensive search near Fish Pass Jetties. Huff had been missing since Sunday. An exhaustive search effort involving the U.S. Coast Guard, Corpus Christi Police Department, Park Rangers, and Beach Patrol was launched after his truck was located. Using drones and K-9 units, searchers eventually found Huff in a nearby brush area. While the official cause of death is pending a determination by the medical examiner, authorities have stated that the circumstances appear to be an unfortunate accident. His family has been notified.
Coastal Bend Fishing Heats Up for Summer
The fishing action in the Texas Coastal Bend is in prime form for June. Inshore anglers are finding explosive topwater bites for redfish and speckled trout over the grass beds of the Laguna Madre, especially in the early morning. Live shrimp and croaker remain top bait choices as the sun gets higher. Schools of black drum are active on mud flats, readily taking dead shrimp. Nearshore and offshore, the bite is equally strong. Kingfish and cobia are being caught around rigs and reefs off Port Aransas, and with red snapper season underway, anglers are finding fast limits. The surf and piers are also productive, yielding whiting, pompano, and slot redfish, making it a great time to fish anywhere along the coast.
Wyoming Fly Fishing Report: Hatches are On!
Fly fishing in Wyoming is hitting its peak as runoff comes to an end and rivers show excellent visibility. The Snake River is fishing well on all reaches, with significant top-water action from mid-morning until the afternoon. Anglers can expect to see a variety of hatches, including caddis, PMDs, and multiple species of stoneflies. In Yellowstone National Park, the Firehole River is still producing decent surface action with PMDs and caddis, while the Snake and Lewis Rivers are seeing good hatches of golden stones and PMDs. With gray drakes and green drakes also emerging, it is a fantastic time for dry fly enthusiasts to hit the water across the region’s famed trout streams.
Fishing University Spotlights Lake Eufaula
The popular television show “Fishing University” recently turned its spotlight on Oklahoma’s Lake Eufaula. An episode that will air through June 28th features the hosts fishing with professional angler Randy Blaukat. The show focuses on wintertime fishing techniques for targeting bass in the lake’s stained water, offering viewers valuable insights into tackling challenging conditions. This national exposure highlights Lake Eufaula as a premier fishing destination and provides a great promotional boost for the local area. Anglers interested in learning new tactics for one of the state’s most famous fisheries can tune in to see the experts break down their strategies on the water.
Know the Rules: Common Fishing Violations in Montana
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds anglers to stay vigilant about fishing regulations to protect the state’s world-class fisheries. Wardens report that some of the most common violations include fishing without a valid license and Conservation Stamp. With the ease of purchasing a license online, there is no excuse for not having the proper credentials. Another frequent issue is anglers not knowing the specific limits and restrictions for different species and bodies of water, which can vary widely. Finally, trespassing remains a problem. While Montana’s stream access law allows fishing below the high-water mark, anglers must be careful not to cross onto private land without permission. Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the regulations to avoid a ticket and help preserve the resource for everyone.
New State Record Whitefish Caught in North Dakota
A forty-year-old fishing record has been broken in North Dakota. Angler Lonnie Liebel of Riverdale caught a new state record lake whitefish on June 2 while fishing the Garrison Dam Tailrace in the Missouri River. His impressive catch weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces, eclipsing the previous record of 8 pounds, 11 ounces, which was set by Bill Mitzel back in 1984. Catching a state record is a monumental achievement for any angler, and this new record highlights the quality of the fishery in the Missouri River system. The long-standing nature of the previous record makes this catch particularly noteworthy for the state’s fishing community.
Limited Access at New York’s Birch Run Ponds WMA
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced limited public access to the Birch Run Ponds Fish and Wildlife Management Area in Cattaraugus County. From June 25th through the beginning of July, the paved accessible parking lot and footpath will be closed for a pavement sealing project. This maintenance will restrict access to the fishing and viewing platform as well as accessible picnic tables. However, anglers can still access the ponds via the unpaved parking area, which remains open. The DEC has provided a list of alternative accessible fishing locations on its website for those impacted by the temporary closure of the accessible facilities.
Maryland Anglers See Arrival of Cobia and Big Red Drum
The summer fishing season is heating up in Maryland’s lower Chesapeake Bay region with the exciting arrival of the first cobia of the year. Anglers are also enjoying increasing populations of large red drum, bluefish, and speckled trout. The big red drum are being caught and released along the eastern side of the bay, often in shallower waters during the evenings on cut bait or soft crab. Jigging with large soft plastics in deeper waters near the Target Ship and the Middle Grounds is another effective method. With water temperatures reaching the low to mid-80s, the conditions are perfect for targeting these hard-fighting summer species. Chumming is also a popular tactic for attracting cobia, bluefish, and sharks.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://fishinoc.com/big-reds-on-the-rip/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyHDI3Zjg0MGQ5NDBmM2FiZGI6Y29tOmVuOlVTOlI&usg=AOvVaw11lpjlD_b1ZW4s6674PYCd“>Read the full story
Fly Fishing Adventure Camp for Youth in Pennsylvania
Young, aspiring anglers in Pennsylvania have a great opportunity to learn the art of fly fishing this summer. The Buttonwood Nature Center is hosting a two-day Fly Fishing Adventure Camp on July 9th and 10th at the Orvis Hill Country property in Fairfield. The camp is open to students who have completed grades 5 through age 17. With instruction from Orvis experts, campers will learn fly fishing essentials like rod rigging, knots, fly selection, and how to safely release fish. In addition to fishing, the camp curriculum includes learning about freshwater biology, aquatic insects, and forest ecology through guided hikes. It offers a fantastic, hands-on introduction to the sport and the science behind it.
First Responder Fishing Tournament Set for July 26th
Anglers in the Ark-La-Tex region are invited to support local heroes at the first annual First Responder Fishing Tournament Fundraiser on Friday, July 26th. Hosted by LifeNet and the Ark-La-Tex Bassmaster Association, the event will take place at Millwood Lake. The tournament is a great way for the community to show its appreciation for the men and women who serve as first responders. The entry fee is $100 per boat, and all proceeds will go directly to the First Responder Organization of the team’s choice. The tournament will begin with a “on your hole” start at 6:30 a.m., with the weigh-in scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at Yarborough Landing.
Striper Migration Report – June 24, 2025
The spring striped bass migration in the Northeast is beginning to slow down as fish settle into their summer haunts. According to the latest report from On The Water, big migratory bass are now widespread, with notable concentrations around the rips of the Eastern Long Island Sound, Block Island, and the Elizabeth Islands. With the June new moon, some fish movement is still expected from the outer beaches of Cape Cod up to Maine. However, as hot weather arrives, the action will likely become more focused on early morning and late evening bites. Anglers are encouraged to take advantage of the current conditions to target a personal best before the bass fully transition into their deep-water summer patterns.
Georgetown County, SC, Considers Daytime Surf Fishing Ban
Surf anglers in Georgetown County, South Carolina, may soon face new restrictions, as the county council is considering an ordinance to ban daytime surf fishing on public beaches during the summer. The proposed ban would be in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. between May 1st and September 30th. According to the county administrator, the ordinance is being put forward as a public safety measure to “safeguard swimmers, surfers and others in the water from sharks and other dangerous species.” The potential ban would impact fishing at popular spots like Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach, and Murrells Inlet. The final vote on the controversial measure is scheduled for July 22nd.
CSKT Issues Fish Consumption Advisory for Sections of Clark Fork, Bitterroot Rivers
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) have issued an advisory against consuming fish from sections of the Clark Fork and Bitterroot rivers in Montana. The original article could not be accessed, but the advisory is based on recent testing that has confirmed the presence of Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and furans in fish at levels that are considered unsafe for human consumption. This advisory is an important public health warning for all anglers who fish these waters. It is crucial for those who harvest fish from these rivers to be aware of the potential health risks associated with consuming their catch. Anglers are advised to check with CSKT or Montana FWP for specific details on the affected areas.
